Mikel Arteta had to have a “difficult” conversation with one of his Arsenal squad as the club’s plans for talisman Bukayo Saka have become clear
Mikel Arteta will be pondering a promising beginning to the campaign for Arsenal as the final international interval of 2025 rolls on.
The Gunners were left exasperated by last weekend’s 2-2 stalemate at Sunderland before Manchester City demolished Liverpool 3-0 to reduce the deficit at the Premier League summit to four points.
Nevertheless, Arteta would have gladly taken such an advantage at this point when the season kicked off. Arsenal’s primary concern remains injuries, with numerous vital players nursing problems or still recuperating from lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Arteta will be crossing his fingers that his international contingent returns without any fresh setbacks, particularly with the north London clash against Tottenham looming large. Here’s all the latest news from the Emirates.
Defender’s ‘challenging’ Arteta discussion
Jakub Kiwior has revealed having a tricky chat with Arteta regarding his departure from the Gunners.
The Polish centre-back moved to Porto on a season-long loan deal with a purchase option at the close of the transfer window after becoming restless with his lack of regular playing time, reports the Mirror.
Arteta was keen for him to remain and compete for his spot, but ultimately gave way before sending his best wishes with the Portuguese club.
Speaking to Łączy Nas Piłka, he said: “The last one [conversation with Arteta], no [wasn’t difficult]. We already knew then that I would go on loan to Porto. The coach emphasised how big the club was and wished me luck.
“The earlier conversation, when I asked for the loan, was more difficult. I’d never done this before [asked to leave], but I felt the time had come to speak with him face-to-face. He understood me and supported me.”
The 25-year-old doesn’t believe he’s taken a backwards step by moving to Porto, explaining: “As for Arsenal and Porto, league-wise, it might seem like a step back, but club-wise, it’s absolutely not.
“At Porto, I have what I lacked in London: regular playing time. I feel great here. I have people I trust around me. In the case of Porto, there wasn’t much to analyse. Anyone interested in football knows how big a club it is.”
Saka’s intentions crystal clear as negotiations progress
Arsenal and Bukayo Saka remain aligned regarding the winger’s future, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners star and his representatives are continuing discussions with the club over a fresh long-term contract, as the 24-year-old has enjoyed a great international break with England.
His existing deal runs until the summer of 2027, with Romano suggesting the Three Lions star could spend his entire club career at Arsenal.
Writing for GiveMeSport, the Italian journalist revealed: “We can’t predict the future, but that is the intention. Saka and Arsenal are very happy together, also for the long-term.”
Saka’s fresh contract, once finalised, is expected to earn him upwards of £300,000 per week.
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