Mikel Arteta reveals what sets Bukayo Saka apart despite harsh treatment from opponents
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Bukayo Saka ‘s mental resilience after the England winger faced hostile treatment from Ipswich supporters during Sunday’s 4-0 victory at Portman Road.
The 23-year-old became the target of boos following the controversial 34th-minute dismissal of Ipswich defender Leif Davis, who received a straight red card for a reckless challenge that raked Saka’s Achilles. Despite the home crowd’s displeasure with the decision, cameras captured Saka smiling in response to the jeers – a reaction that drew admiration from his manager.
“He needs to stay present and ensure the noise doesn’t affect his decision-making,” Arteta said in his pre-Crystal Palace press conference. “That’s tricky sometimes, but he handled it exceptionally well. Reacting would have been the worst approach.”
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The Spanish coach emphasised that Saka’s composure under pressure is an innate quality rather than a coached behavior: “We can’t take credit for that – it’s him. He’s remarkably calm, rational, and intelligent in managing emotions.”
Bukayo Saka against Real Madrid (Image credit Getty Images)While Saka required ice treatment after being substituted in the second half at Portman Road, Arteta confirmed his availability for Wednesday’s Premier League encounter with Palace. The match represents Arsenal’s final tune-up before next week’s seismic Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
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Contrary to expectations, Arteta ruled out wholesale rotations, emphasising the importance of maintaining competitive rhythm: “When players are fit, available, and eager to play, they should play. Their decision-making and physicality peak when they maintain consistency.”
The manager outlined his selection philosophy: “If they’re not in condition to perform, we won’t risk them. But if they’re ready, they’ll play – that’s how we keep standards high.”
With just six days between the Palace match and their European test against PSG, Arteta’s faith in his starters suggests confidence in both their physical conditioning and ability to handle mounting pressure in the season’s decisive weeks.
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