William Saliba's loan to Olympique de Marseille in 2021 was a turning point in his career.
What happened?
He was told to find a club to join on loan that summer, with Arsenal suggesting Newcastle United or Crystal Palace.
But Saliba had other plans, and was on the verge of joining Lille OSC.
A financial problem led him to Marseille instead.
Why it matters for William Saliba
Saliba admits he was initially reticent about joining Marseille, but his agent convinced him it was a good opportunity.
He played almost all of the matches, and his value rose again.
By March, he was playing his first matches for France.
What comes next?
Saliba's experience at Marseille was a positive one, and he loved the supporters, the club, and his teammates.
He started having fun again, and his career began to move quickly.
Jorge Sampaoli really wanted him, and Saliba went on to have an incredible year.
He finished the season with a call-up to the France national team, a testament to his hard work and dedication.
On his time at Marseille, Saliba said: 'Marseille is a big club, but it is scary'.
But he was determined to make the most of his opportunity, and it paid off.
Saliba's loan to Marseille was a defining moment in his career, and one that earned him a place in the France national team.