The England international has beaten his manager on his behind-the-scenes game after scoring in a Europa League draw with Benfica
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has admitted he is “trying to learn” as much as he can from Mikel Arteta, whom he believes for giving him “good advice” on how he can improve.
Saka found the net after being pressed by Cedric to win a 1-1 draw for Arsenal in the first leg of their Europa League match that met 32 against Benfica on Thursday night.
The 19-year-old expressed his gratitude to Arteta after the match, highlighting the impact the Spaniard has had on his game behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium.
What was said?
Saka gu BT Sport: “We had a lot of chances. We took control of the whole game. They got a lucky penalty that I don’t think that was. We had to deal well.
“We got a goal back and we could have won. Not the worst result, we got a goal away.
“It was good interplay [for the goal]. We managed to change the ball and it was a great finish on my own so I am happy with the goal.
“I feel like I’m developing every game. I’m trying to make a good impression, try to learn and listen to the boss because he gives good advice. I am thankful that I have a good team and a good family around me, I just want to keep going.
“It’s about managing the game. Last year when we went out to Olympiakos we surrendered to a silly goal. We can’t put a foot wrong because if we do we will be sorry for ourselves.”
Saka chart in 2020-21
Saka has taken his game to new heights during Arteta’s first full season at the helm, establishing himself firmly as one of the most important members of the squad.
The England international brought his overall goal to five goals in 28 appearances across all competitions with the strike in his second half against Benfica, and has also added five assists for his teammates so far .
What now?
Saka is likely to be back in Arteta starting XI when Arsenal welcome Manchester City Premier League leaders to the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.
The Gunners are vying to end City ‘s 17 – game climb in that game as they look to close the gap between themselves and the top six.
Arteta’s men currently sit 10th in the standings, eight points behind fourth-placed Chelsea and six behind Liverpool, who remain in last place in the Europa League.