Mikel Arteta praised Bukayo Saka’s “incredible talent” after the Arsenal forward’s double inspired a 3-0 win over Monaco that moved his side closer to the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday.
The win, inspired by Bukayo Saka’s double, moved the Gunners up to third in the table with two games remaining.
Saka struck late in each half, with Kai Havertz adding a third goal to wrap up Arsenal’s fourth win in six games in the revamped league phase of Europe’s elite club competition.
Mikel Arteta praised Saka’s performance, saying: “He looks really mature. What he has already done in the game at his age is incredible. Very humble, a great guy to have around and an incredible talent.”
Arteta also highlighted Saka’s growing leadership role within the team, stating: “He’s a special person. In his role, his leadership is increasing. With the young kids, he is amazing, with the seniors, he is amazing. He is loved by everybody, and he makes the difference on the pitch.”
The Arsenal manager believes Saka has the potential to be ranked alongside the world’s best forwards, saying: “That is what he wants to do. That is the ambition he has, and the quality he has. He is preparing himself every day, so I’m not surprised.”
Arteta acknowledged that Arsenal still have room for improvement, despite their recent run of form. “We should have scored four or five in the first half, but it wasn’t the case,” he said.
The win over Monaco marked Arsenal’s fifth victory in their last six games in all competitions. Arteta expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete with any side in the Champions League, saying: “We are enjoying our run. We can compete against any team. We keep learning. Obviously, we need much more, we need to go through certain moments, and I’m sure we will in the near future.”
