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Mikel Arteta called Bucayo Saka “special” after the Arsenal winger's two goals helped the Gunners beat Monaco in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Saka found the net in both halves and substitute Kai Havertz also scored as Arsenal ran out comfortable 3-0 winners at the Emirates.
The two sides were level on points going into the game, but a win for the hosts sees them move up to third in the table and en route to automatic qualification for the last 16 of the competition.
“I am extremely happy,” Arteta told TNT Sports.
“We started the match very well. The first half we should have been at least three or four (goals up).
“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 precise enough.
Bukayo Saka immediately showed his gratitude to Lewis-Skelley for his key contribution in creating the first goal.
Leader 💪 pic.twitter.com/pQg8BzJY7K
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 11, 2024
Arteta was also quick to praise the contribution of Saka, who has now scored and assisted more times in one game 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 that field he makes a difference for us.”
Bukayo Saka with an easy finish after a brilliant pass by Gabriel Jesus 😮💨
Amazing performance from Miles Lewis-Skelley on his first Champions League start 👏
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/GJHS03AXiD
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 11, 2024
Saka opted to highlight the performance of 18-year-old Miles Lewis-Skelley, who made his first Champions League start for the Gunners and played a key role in Arsenal's opener.
“I told him (Lewis-Skelley) before the game that this is his level. “He should not have doubts and play with confidence,” Saka said.
“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-Skelley added: “I'm proud of myself. I believe in myself. I've come a long way and I just want to thank everyone who gave me the opportunity and, hopefully, this is the first of many.”
