'I Gave Opportunities To Young Players' - Ex- Arsenal Coach Emery Tips Saka For Greatness

Published: May 16, 2020

Former Arsenal coach Unai Emery has tipped Anglo-Nigerian winger Bukayo Saka for greatness.

The Hale End Academy product was on the periphery of the first team in Emery's first season in charge but has become a key player under manager Mikel Arteta, flourishing in his new role at left-back.

The Spaniard recalled that Saka didn't touch the ball for more than eight minutes he spent on the pitch when he made his Premier League debut against Fulham in January 2019.

"But, look, I was happy at Arsenal and I remember the good things. The first year was magnificent, I gave opportunities to young players: Bukayo [Saka] played eight minutes and never touched the ball but that was a first step for a 17-year-old who’s going to be great," Emery told the Guardian UK.

"Bernd Leno has grown. [Joe] Willock, Reiss Nelson, [Eddie] Nketiah, [Gabriel] Martinelli. Mattéo Guendouzi did very well, Lucas [Torreira]. It’s rewarding seeing them grow."

Emery was dismissed last November following a poor run of results that saw the Emirates outfit go seven games without a victory; drawing five and losing the other two.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : arsenal.com

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