LIVE
...

Follow us on

News

Bernd Leno says Arsenal have an ‘incredible’ talent in their ranks who can become world class

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno has praised Bukayo Saka, tipping his “incredible” Gunners teammate to become a world-class player.

Saka has been sensational since making his first-team breakthrough last season, becoming one of the first names on Mikel Arteta’s teamsheet.

In his maiden first-team campaign, he clocked up 39 appearances in all competitions, weighing in with four goals and 11 assists.

Arsenal FC v SL Benfica - UEFA Europa League Round Of 32 Leg Two
(Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

And this term, Saka has made 37 appearances so far, with six goals and seven assists under his belt.

Leno, speaking to the Arsenal media team ahead of the Europa League quarter-final second-leg trip to Slavia Prague, praised his teammate’s talent, maturity, attitude and leadership skills.

“There’s nothing to say,” the goalkeeper said. “His performances are incredible. He’s a top player and he has a top mentality.

“I think it’s very unusual for a young player like him because he’s very professional. He feels older than he is because he’s almost leading the team. This is a very good sign.

“I’m pretty sure he will become a world-class player. We are very happy to have him because this season – I don’t know if he’s the best – he’s been one of the best players.”

TBR View:

Teammates, fans, pundits and peers are running out of superlatives for Saka, which is no surprise really.

At just 19 years old, he’s already one of Arsenal’s best players, and arguably one of the best young footballers in Europe too.

This makes you wonder just how much better he can become in the next few years, and with his contract running until 2024, he’s got plenty of time to deliver more magic for the Gunners.