Roy Keane has told ITV (broadcast on 9/1; 17:05) that he believes Bukayo Saka can play for any of the big clubs across Europe as he labelled the Arsenal star a special talent.
Sunday proved to be a bleak day for Mikel Arteta’s men. They were beaten 1-0 by Nottingham Forest to miss out on reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Of course, many were not at the races at the City Ground. And they missed the chance to stake a claim for more game-time with their displays.
But one player who perhaps showed more than most was Saka. He was arguably the Gunners’ best performer on a tough night. He created their best chance, for Eddie Nketiah.
Obviously, Saka stepping up when many around him struggle sounds like a familiar story for Arsenal fans. The 20-year-old was a rare shining light for the side last season.
And he has continued to impress this term. And ahead of the game, Keane outlined how impressed he has been with the youngster, and the way he conducts himself.
“He can play for any of the big teams in England and Europe,” he told ITV. “I think he’s a special talent. He’s got that ability to beat a man, make something happen. And what I like about him, when he speaks, he seems a humble kid so he’s got a chance of becoming a great, great player. He’s got that talent.”
Arsenal should be wary of passing up silverware opportunities amid interest in Bukayo Saka
One result is not going to make Saka consider his future. He clearly loves Arsenal. And he would surely want nothing more than to find himself at the summit of the game while playing for the Gunners.
However, Sunday’s defeat does represent a missed opportunity. The FA Cup has provided Arsenal with a fantastic chance of securing silverware in recent years.
Clubs such as Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Saka. And Arsenal will know that continuing to progress could be crucial to their hopes of ensuring that the youngster remains happy.
Sadly, Sunday was a rare backward step for Arteta’s side.