In his latest interview, Bukayo Saka, the rising star at Arsenal, shared that Mikel Arteta can be a difficult boss at times — however, that’s exactly what drives him to develop. He talked about some of the challenges being difficult but at the same time insisted that those very challenges are making him grow.
Saka disclosed that there are moments when he cannot comprehend what Arteta expects from the team. “There might be times when you do not like it,” he recalled, “but you always end up looking back at it and being thankful because it is something you need.” He admitted that it is tough and if not too nice when the coach is hard on them but he sees the merit in it. He is well aware that without that level of pressure his progress as one of the best players in the world would not be so accelerated.
Bukayo Saka: Arteta
Bukayo Saka is one of the brightest academy graduates of Arsenal. Since his debut in 18/19 season, Saka has scored 58 goals and has 51 assists for Arsenal. The 24-year-old has won the FA Cup and Community Shield with the Gunners.
Bukayo Saka Judgement
Saka’s frankness with Saka’s comes to them at a very important moment for both him and Arsenal. The English winger is currently dealing with a hamstring injury. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that it is difficult to say which week he will return. The uncertainty about his exact time period of return is now a source of problem. But Saka has kept his spirits high and he believes he will return soon to help his team.
Saka Under Mikel Arteta
Saka made an impact when he was back. Arteta was impressed of him about comeback, calling it “incredible not to love him.” The coach mentioned that his return is essential not only for his talent. His personality plays a major role. His thankfulness and how he thanked the entire medical team after the operation didn’t go unnoticed.
Bukayo in Arteta Plan
However, the “plan” for Saka is less about getting him back in shape. Arteta wants much more from him. Arteta was asked regarding Saka’s change of position on field. He replied that in future he might push Saka’s role towards more central. Arteta don’t want to fix his position on the left. The manager has noticed the leadership qualities in the English winger. He keeps an impact in the matches with his dribbling and shooting. Apart from this, what excels is his sharpness and leadership.
He seemed to also understand this after seeing Saka’s long term plan clearly. He commended Saka as a fan of the highest level and affirmed that he wishes to see Saka achieve greatness with London’s club of the Gunners. Meanwhile, the club works on keeping Saka with them – he has recently put his signature on a new long-term agreement reportedly until 2027. That gesture clearly shows how indispensable he is to Arteta.
Contrary to being injured and facing the tension of Arteta’s demands, Saka is still positive. He revealed the secret how Arteta keeps his team competitive every year. His rigorous and demanding standards is the reason behind this. He doesn’t take the pressure as a burden. The pressure helps them to be active and keep their spirits high.
Author’s Insight
To a large extent, these “difficult” conversations between Saka and Arteta can be interpreted as a sign that their relationship is strong and healthy. Arteta doesn’t hold back his pushes; Saka responds by pushing even more. And the final objective, for both of them, is obvious: to win, to get better, and to create a lasting legacy at Arsenal.
