Mikel Arteta has expressed his belief that Bukayo Saka has the potential to “leave a legacy” at Arsenal if the young star continues his journey with the club. The 24-year-old has been a vital part of the team this season, contributing three goals in nine Premier League matches as Arsenal takes an early lead in the title race.
Since making his debut in 2019, Saka has remained a consistent presence in the squad. However, he currently has only 18 months left on his contract at the Emirates Stadium. Despite this, there is no indication that he is looking to leave his boyhood club. Reports suggest that both Saka and Arsenal are nearing an agreement on a long-term deal.
Arteta emphasized that Saka is committed to staying with the club. When asked about the situation, he said, “What I’m very aware of is that he wants to continue with us.” He added, “He’s very happy that he’s in the place that he wants to continue to be and achieve everything that we want to achieve together.”
Arteta also highlighted the positive relationship between Saka, the club, and his agent, Emeka Obasi. “I think it is confident because what Bukayo has admitted to me and the club, and Emeka as well, is that they want to continue to be here,” he said. “It is something we want to maintain, and I think that it is something that will leave a legacy at this football club.”
Arsenal has taken a proactive approach in securing key players, learning from the experiences of other clubs. For example, Liverpool saw Trent Alexander-Arnold move to Real Madrid after running down his contract. In contrast, Arsenal has focused on signing long-term deals for their top talents.
This strategy has already yielded results. Key defensive players Gabriel and William Saliba have signed new contracts over the summer. Additionally, academy graduates Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly have also signed long-term deals following their breakthroughs into the first team.
Arteta has also spoken publicly about ongoing discussions with Jurrien Timber regarding a contract extension. The Dutch defender has become a crucial part of the squad under the Spaniard’s leadership.
“I think there has been a very clear vision and route of how we want to do things,” Arteta said. “The ownership has been incredibly supportive and determined that we can continue the journey with these players and maintain the core of the team.”
He also praised the efficiency of the club’s management team, including Andrea, in ensuring that deals are finalized. “Because at the end there are always three parties, and it is never an easy thing to get done,” he added.
As Arsenal prepares for the north London derby against Tottenham, the team aims to extend its unbeaten run to 15 games across all competitions. This match is a significant test for the Gunners as they look to maintain their momentum in the league.
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