Less than a month ago, Arsenal celebrated their Premier League title by travelling in an open-top bus through the streets of Islington in north London. Nearly a million fans turned out to pay tribute to their heroes. On the bus were Viktor Gyökeres and William Saliba, teammates and friends. Both enjoyed the moment, despite losing to Paris SG in the Champions League final less than a day earlier.
An hour after midnight on Wednesday, the World Cup is over for one of them - and the odds are not on the Swedish side.
"We'll try to go in with the belief that we can win the game. If we have a very good day, I think it could be a good game," says the striker, well aware of what awaits.
Saliba is seen as the complete centre-back. Strong, fast, good in the air, sure on the ball and excellent in positional play. Gyökeres is looking forward to the duels - if the Frenchman plays. Saliba is suffering from back problems, was rested against Norway in the final group match and was replaced by Maxence Lacroix. It is not unlikely that Saliba will be spared again and start on the bench.
“Extremely funny guy”
"It will be fun to meet him again. We have a good relationship. He is an extremely funny guy who contributes a lot of energy. A guy you want to have around you, a good and important person to have in the locker room," says Gyökeres.
Do you think he might feel anxious about meeting you?
You'll have to ask him.
The last time they played against each other was during Gyökeres' final season at Sporting. He then caused Saliba problems in the Champions League, which increased Arsenal's interest.
Yeah, it felt good last time, but it was a while ago and we'll see on Tuesday. I'm looking forward to playing against him.
Thriving in the heat
Despite a long season with more than 60 matches, the national team striker feels fresh, both in his legs and in his head.
It's easier when you've changed your environment and are here with the national team. You interact with the team in a completely different way. Now we're going to play a playoff match against France, it's not a challenge mentally.
And I enjoy the warmth.
It will be hot in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Around 30 degrees at kickoff at 5:00 PM local time. But the teams will avoid the heat wave that will hit on Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to reach 40 degrees.
The round of 16 against France will be played at 11:00 PM, Swedish time on Tuesday.
