Mikel Arteta called Bucayo Saka “special” after the Arsenal winger’s two goals helped the Gunners face Monaco in the Champions League on Wednesday afternoon.
Saka found the net in both halves, with substitute Kai Havertz also scoring, as Arsenal ran out comfortable 3-0 winners at the Emirates.
Both sides were level on points in the encounter, but victory for the home side sees them move up to third in the table and automatically progress to the last 16 of the competition.
“I’m extremely happy,” Arteta told TNT Sports.
“We started the game very well. In the first half we should have gone three or four (goals up) at least.
“In the Champions League you will have difficult moments and we had a period (in the game), probably longer than expected because we were not accurate enough.”
Bukayo Saka immediately showed appreciation to Lewis-Skelly for his instrumental contribution to the opening goal.
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Arteta was also quick to praise the contribution of Xhaka, who has now scored and assisted in a single game more times than any other player in the Champions League since the start of last season.
Speaking about Saka, the Gunners boss said: “He looks really mature. What he has already done in football is incredible.
“He’s very humble, a great guy to be around and an incredible talent.
“He is a special person. He is loved by everyone and when he is on this pitch he makes the difference for us.”
Bukayo Saka with an easy finish after a great pass from Gabriel Jesus 😮💨
Some incredible performances from Miles Lewis-Skelley on his first Champions League start 👏
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— Soccer on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 11, 2024
Saka chose to highlight the performance of 18-year-old Miles Lewis-Skelly, who made his first Champions League start for the Gunners, and who was instrumental in Arsenal’s start.
“I told him (Lewis-Skelley) before the game that this is his level. He has to have no doubts and play with confidence,” said Saka.
“We see what he does in training so I was pleased with him and he was a big part of the first goal.
“I’m proud of him.”
Lewis-Skelly added: “I’m proud of myself. I believe in myself. I’ve come a long way and I just want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity and hopefully this is the first of many.”
