Arsenal starlet Emile Smith-Rowe ‘a great player’ according to former teammate Bruma

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Arsenal are lucky to have a player like Emile Smith-Rowe, according to the midfielder’s former RB Leipzig teammate, Bruma.

The Portuguese player, who could line up against the Gunners for Olympiakos this week, was speaking to Goal this week ahead of the Europa League clash with Mikel Arteta’s side.

And having played with Smith-Rowe in Germany, Bruma knows all about the Arsenal youngster. Indeed, he insists he is not surprised by his rise to prominence and says he can grow even further.

“It doesn’t surprise me at all. At training and in matches we could see a lot of his skills and technique,” Bruma told Goal.

“Emile’s a great player. He can turn the match in one move and unbalance everything with his skills. He still has a lot to grow and to get better, but he’s at a great team and I wish him all the best. I want him to reach his full potential.”

Smith-Rowe has exploded into life this season after being given his chance by Mikel Arteta. The Gunners boss turned to the 20-year-old after seeing his side struggle to create chances.

The youngster has since contributed six assists and scored once, justifying his selection in the first XI.

TBR View: Smith-Rowe a shining light alongside Bukayo Saka at Arsenal

Whatever Arsenal end up doing this season, the emergence of Smith-Rowe and Saka’s continued brilliance are big bright spots for them.

Both are young players who are only going to get better, and as Bruma points out, Smith-Rowe does have that bit of magic about him at times.

The future should be bright for Arsenal. Bruma, meanwhile, will hope his former teammate and friend has an off night this week!