Arteta Reflects on Arsenal’s Victory, Praises Young Talent and Saka’s Maturity

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, speaking to TNT Sports, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating: “Very happy. Obviously scoring the three goals, keeping a clean sheet and winning the game.” He acknowledged a strong start, adding, “We started the game very well, in the first half we should have put the game to bed but we didn’t. In the Champions League you will have difficult moments and we suffered but then with the second goal and the game was in control.” Regarding the three goals scored from open play, Arteta commented: “Very good, especially because they were very different goals. That’s what we want, from every phase of play to be a threat. We could have scored many goals from open play but, anyway, very happy.” Addressing Myles Lewis-Skelly’s debut, the manager remarked: “A word for Myles – 18-years-old and to make his debut in the Champions League is a great highlight of the game.” He further praised the young player, stating, “What I like about him is his courage, the position he takes, how he penetrates with the ball. He’s one of our own, he has a bright future ahead of him. As a club and a manager, we have to be happy with him coming through. It is a great feeling to be able to change someone’s life.” On his tactical substitutions, Arteta explained: “We had some issues. They put six players inside with only the full-backs giving the width. They had a lot of rotation which was difficult to manage that. I think the subs helped us, they gave us energy and helped with the structure. Everybody is important, every three days it’s impossible to keep the same players.” Commenting on Bukayo Saka, the coach remarked: “He looks really mature. What he has already done in the game at his age is incredible. Very humble, a great guy to have around and an incredible talent.” Arteta described Saka as a “special person,” noting, “In his role, his leadership is increasing. With the young kids he is amazing, with the seniors he is amazing. He is loved by everybody and he makes the difference on the pitch.”