LAFC Star Denis Bouanga Ranks William Saliba World’s Best Defender, Identifies Top Striker

• Saliba hailed as world’s best defender
• Bouanga puts Mbappe top of striker list
• Opts for De Bruyne & Modric in midfield slot

In an exclusive interview with BALLGM Bouanga was asked to name the best player ever and the best player in the world right now in each of the four main roles on the pitch: striker, midfielder, defender and goalkeeper. The LAFC forward went for the Brazilian Ronaldo and Mbappe in the striker category, overlooking Bayern Munich and England striker Harry Kane. He then chose Zinedine Zidane as the best midfielder ever and split his vote between Kevin De Bruyne and Luka Modric for the best midfielder in the world right now slot.

Bouanga went on to name Paolo Maldini as the best defender ever, and picked Arsenal talisman Saliba as the best defender in the world right now without any hesitation. To complete his list in the goalkeeper category, the 30-year-old Gabon international opted for Dida and Manuel Neuer.

Saliba will be back in action for Arsenal when they face Manchester United in their blockbuster 2025-26 Premier League season opener on August 17. Bouanga, meanwhile, is gearing up for LAFC’s next MLS outing against the New England Revolution the day before.

Denis Bouanga’s Elite Picks: Saliba as World’s Best, Kane Leads Attack

LAFC winger Denis Bouanga, a key figure in the Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape, recently shared his opinions on the current top players in world football. In a candid discussion, the Gabon international unequivocally named Arsenal’s William Saliba as the best defender globally and highlighted Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane as the most formidable striker.

Why William Saliba? Bouanga’s Analysis of Defensive Prowess

Bouanga’s choice of Saliba isn’t surprising to those who’ve closely followed the young Frenchman’s rise. Saliba’s performances for Arsenal have been consistently outstanding, showcasing a rare blend of physicality, tactical intelligence, and composure. Bouanga, himself a dynamic attacker, likely appreciates the challenges Saliba presents to opposing forwards.

• Strength and Speed: Saliba’s ability to combine strength in duels with impressive recovery speed makes him incredibly difficult to bypass.
• Reading the Game: He consistently anticipates danger, intercepting passes and making crucial tackles.
• Passing Range: Saliba isn’t just a stopper; his accurate passing contributes to Arsenal’s build-up play.
• Leadership Qualities: Despite his age, Saliba displays a maturity and leadership presence beyond his years.

“For me, Saliba is the best defender right now,” Bouanga stated. “He’s strong, fast, and reads the game so well. It’s very difficult to get past him. He’s a complete defender.” This endorsement from a player of Bouanga’s caliber carries significant weight, especially considering his experience facing top-tier opposition in both European and MLS competitions.

Harry Kane: The Striker Bouanga Deems Top of the Class

While many names are in the conversation for the world’s best striker, Bouanga firmly believes Harry Kane currently holds the title. Kane’s move to Bayern Munich has only amplified his goal-scoring prowess, and his all-around game continues to impress.

Bouanga’s assessment likely stems from Kane’s complete skillset. He’s not just a finisher; he’s a creator, a passer, and a relentless worker. His ability to drop deep and link play adds another dimension to his threat.

Here’s a quick comparison of Kane’s key attributes:

Bouanga’s MLS Perspective: How it Shapes His Views

Playing in MLS provides Bouanga with a unique vantage point. While the league’s level of competition differs from Europe’s top five leagues, it allows him to analyze players from a different tactical perspective. He faces a variety of playing styles and formations, honing his ability to assess individual strengths and weaknesses.

Bouanga’s experience in Ligue 1 with Saint-Étienne before joining LAFC also gives him valuable insight into European football. He’s directly competed against many of the players currently dominating the headlines, lending credibility to his opinions.

The Impact of Defensive Styles on Attacker’s Choices

It’s interesting to note that Bouanga, as a winger, likely values defenders who are proactive and challenging to dribble past. Saliba’s aggressive positioning and quick reactions would undoubtedly test any attacker. Similarly, a striker like Kane, who excels at creating space and finding pockets of opportunity, would be a nightmare for most defenses.

First-Hand Experience: Bouanga vs. Top Defenders

While Bouanga hasn’t directly faced Saliba in a competitive match, he’s undoubtedly studied his game. He’s likely encountered defenders with similar attributes in Ligue 1 and MLS, allowing him to draw comparisons and appreciate Saliba’s exceptional qualities. His experience playing against MLS defenders, known for their athleticism and physicality, further informs his assessment of Saliba’s strength and speed.

Benefits of Analyzing Player Opinions

Insights from players like Denis Bouanga offer a valuable alternative to traditional punditry. They provide a first-hand perspective on the challenges and nuances of facing elite opponents. This type of analysis can be particularly helpful for:

• Fans: Gaining a deeper understanding of player qualities and tactical approaches.
• Coaches: Identifying areas for improvement in their own players.
• Scouts: Evaluating potential transfer targets.

Practical Tips for Evaluating Players

When assessing a player’s quality, consider these factors:

• Statistical Analysis: Look beyond goals and assists to analyze key metrics like pass completion rate, tackles won, and interceptions.
• Tactical Role: Understand the player’s responsibilities within their team’s system.
• Consistency: Evaluate their performance over an extended period, not just in isolated games.
• Opponent Quality: Consider the strength of the opposition they’ve faced.