Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Bukayo Saka to reach the same heights as his idol Cristiano Ronaldo, citing the Portuguese star’s mentality, work ethic, and skill development as key factors in his success.
Saka, 23, has been in scintillating form for the Gunners, contributing seven goals and assists in their last three matches across all competitions. His impressive display against West Ham in the Premier League last weekend, where he scored one goal and provided two assists in a 5-2 win, has drawn praise from Arteta.
The Spanish manager believes Saka has the potential to emulate Ronaldo’s achievements, saying: “To look is always good! And probably, the way Cristiano started his career and when he joined Manchester United, nobody probably expected in the first few seasons [he would] be able to do that.”
Arteta attributed Ronaldo’s success to his “mentality, his work ethic, how he developed his skill, his chemistry with his team and to play in a team that has the capacity as well to be dominant.” He expressed his optimism that Saka, who idolises Ronaldo, can follow in his footsteps.
Saka will aim to continue his impressive form when Arsenal host rivals Manchester United in a crucial Premier League encounter on Wednesday night at Emirates Stadium.
Image Credit: Getty/GOAL
