Bukayo Saka 'Exceptional' As Arsenal Move Towards Champions League Knockout Stage

by Mohamed A. mohamedali

Mikel Arteta could finally allow himself a grin from the touchline as Arsenal took a major step towards Champions League knock-out football. Bukayo Saka, even after having to be substituted at half time due to an uncomfortable landing, was superb and should continue in this form for Arsenal in future matches.

1. Saka was exceptional

Mikel Arteta has frequently lauded Bukayo Saka's adaptability and versatility since breaking into Arsenal's first team last season - something which was amply demonstrated on Tuesday night. Operating as both a winger and central midfielder helped the 22-year-old gain entry into Mikel Arteta's side and since has gone on to become one of the finest young talents in Europe.

Saka scored an outstanding treble as England trounced North Macedonia 5-0 in March and his performances for England have only served to further cement his status as one of their rising talents. That has not gone unnoticed by Gareth Southgate, who included him in the squad against Russia on Monday.

Although initially doubtful to start in Arsenal's Champions League match against Lens, Saka soon made his presence felt with his arrival and soon added another level of quality to their attack. He assisted Gabriel Jesus' goal and then played a vital role in creating Juanlu's second goal by dribbling past and then finishing into the far corner himself.

2. Arteta got exactly what he needed

Arsenal are within touching distance of reaching the Champions League knockout stages thanks to Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka's goals against Sevilla, but much credit must also be given to Arteta for trusting in younger players and new signings.

Arteta has brought with him a philosophy centered on ball retention and selflessness that has inspired confidence amongst his team-mates when handling the ball at their feet.

So it is easy to see why Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice's signing made sense during this summer transfer window. All three players can provide cover for Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil while combative all-rounders like Timber can help keep opponents guessing at who will attack next. Furthermore, all three have the potential to become world-class players as their careers advance - something Arteta wanted all along.

3. Sevilla were ruthless

Bukayo Saka, just 21 years old and already playing 2,746 minutes for Arsenal and England at just 21 is impressive enough. While Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid and Mo Salah of Liverpool may surpass him in minutes played, Saka is expected to have amassed at least four thousand European minutes before entering his thirties.

Asseff was instrumental in Arsenal's victory against Sevilla, providing Leandro Trossard with his opener and setting up the second goal in the 86th minute. Unfortunately he was forced off late on with an injury deemed non-crucial by Mikel Arteta but will still need to be monitored as Arsenal prepare to face Manchester City this weekend.

Arteta disclosed that his latest injury had come as the result of him trying to backheel, not as bad as last time when he injured his thigh against Bournemouth. We can only hope he recovers quickly so he can remain active with Arsenal and England over the coming weeks and months.

4. Lens was excellent

Bukayo Saka's ability and willingness to go the extra mile have earned him an important spot in Arsenal's squad, but his minutes must be managed carefully with Europa League fixtures looming and difficult Premier League assignments on the horizon. Playing every game must be balanced against avoiding injury and burnout over the long term.

Saka was manhandled around the park by Sevilla's defensive unit, but that didn't deter him. Trossard met Saka's low cross expertly with an audacious volley to find its target at the bottom corner.

His second assist of the season followed up his excellent play in providing Granit Xhaka with his opener against Vorskla. However, in the second-half his contributions were even better: cutting back into his preferred left-hand side before sending an effort into the bottom corner of the net capped an outstanding display by England's youngster who looks ready to thrive in top flight football and quickly becoming one of its brightest talents.