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Mikel Arteta Supports Bukayo Saka in Following the Footsteps of His Idol Cristiano Ronaldo, Talks about the Winger’s Development

MIKEL ARTETA has shown strong belief in Bukayo Saka’s capability to evolve into a world-class centre-forward, similar to his idol Cristiano Ronaldo.

The 23-year-old Arsenal winger’s transformation from a Hale End prospect to an international star has surprised many, including those at the club.

Mikel Arteta has backed Bukayo Saka to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo

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Mikel Arteta has backed Bukayo Saka to emulate Cristiano RonaldoCredit: AFP
Saka previously revealed that Ronaldo was his idol growing up

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Saka previously revealed that Ronaldo was his idol growing upCredit: Reuters

Starting off as a left-back during the early days of Arteta‘s reign at the Emirates, Saka made his first official appearance for the Gunners six years ago this week.

This first opportunity came at 17 years of age during a 1-0 Europa League victory against Qarabag under the previous manager Unai Emery.

Saka has since developed into a top-notch winger and a pivotal player for both Arsenal and England, placing him among the football elite.

Arteta, though, envisions a future where Saka could shift from the flanks to the central No. 9 role, following in the footsteps of Ronaldo.

At 39, Ronaldo currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr and rose to fame as a winger at Manchester United before transitioning into one of the game’s greatest strikers at Real Madrid.

When questioned about the possibility of a similar shift for Saka, Arteta replied:

“We are exploring these options.”

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Arteta regularly heaps praise on 'starboy' Saka

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Arteta regularly heaps praise on ‘starboy’ SakaCredit: AP

“It will hinge on the abilities of his teammates. For him to take on a more central position instead of remaining wide, someone else must fill the wide areas.

“The full-back, attacking midfielder, and the No. 9 must create the necessary space for this transition to happen.

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“I am certainly open to continuing the development of our players.”

After scoring two goals and providing an assist in the Gunners’ 3-0 Champions League win over Monaco on Wednesday, Saka has now accumulated 21 goal involvements in 21 matches across all competitions this season.

Since the start of last season in the Champions League, only Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane (18) and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr (16) have surpassed Saka’s total of 14 goals contributed.

With ten assists and five goals in the Premier League this season, he currently leads Europe’s top five leagues in assists — outpacing Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal (9) and Liverpool’s Mo Salah (8).

On Saka’s potential scoring targets, Arteta commented: “We always set goals. Aiming for 30 or 40 goals is commendable, but we must figure out a path to achieve this.

“It’s crucial to craft a plan that nurtures the player’s growth and maximizes his opportunities to reach those milestones.

I’m definitely open to continuing to develop our players.

Mikel Arteta

“Sometimes it relates to role, position on the pitch, or other factors.

“When players have a solid understanding of the game, comprehend the spaces, and predict the timing of their movements, they gain more freedom on the field.

“This enhanced decision-making leads to uncertainty for the opponent and allows for greater freedom than in previous seasons.”

Reflecting on his admiration for Ronaldo, Saka remarked: “I take strength from his mentality. He’s always striving for excellence, working diligently on and off the pitch.

“He is among the greatest players to ever play football and is truly remarkable.

“While our playing styles differ, I continually observe him to embrace the positive aspects of his game.”

Another youth system product, Myles Lewis-Skelly, aged 18, also made his Champions League debut against Monaco.

This young left-back might have his first Premier League start against Everton tomorrow, with fellow rising talent Ethan Nwaneri, 17, expected to start from the bench.

Full-backs Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori will be absent due to muscle injuries, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel is anticipated to make a return.

I admire his mindset. He’s constantly striving for excellence, tirelessly working both on and off the pitch.

Saka on Ronaldo

Arteta acknowledged that he is now better positioned to integrate young talents into the first team due to the “unbelievable” atmosphere in the Gunners’ dressing room.

This marks a significant contrast to the tough environment he encountered when he took charge in December 2019.

The Span

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