Bukayo Saka was again instrumental in Arsenal's success in the Champions League, much to the delight of Mikel Arteta.
There are many words to describe Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, and we think we've gotten another one after his superb display in the Gunners' 3-0 win over Monaco in the Champions League midweek that saw him score twice - inevitable.
In each of the past three seasons, Saka's arrow has consistently been trending upward, and this year, it appears he's set to reach heights even he hasn't before.
In just 21 appearances in all competitions, Saka has already totaled nine goals and 12 assists (most ever in a season already), which includes his two goals and assist against Monaco.
It is no secret that the Gunners purr a little louder when No. 7 is in a groove, and his performance against Monaco, while again superb, didn't surprise Mikel Arteta.
"Well, he keeps surprising us, but that's what he wants to do, that’s the quality he has, that’s the ambition that he’s acting and preparing himself for every single day," Arteta said via arsenal.com. "So, I’m not surprised, but it’s very difficult to do what he’s doing."
Calo Henrique, Bukayo Saka
Saka is clearly Arsenal's main attacking weapon, although Martin Odegaard might have a great case for that mantle, too. When Saka is at his best, driving at defenders and creating chances, he is one of the best in the world, which is high praise, but it's the right praise.
And Arteta thinks he's well on his way.
"You have to be able to do that consistently throughout many years to put yourself in that position," Arteta added. "What he’s already done at his age, you can already put in brackets, because we can compare what he’s done in his first six years of professional football which is exceptional, you know, and that’s it and his aim is to improve. He has the players and environment to continue to do that and I’m sure he will."
The Gunners are still six points behind league leaders Liverpool, and that's with a game in hand. There is little margin for error, and if Arsenal is to close that gap, then one can easily envision Saka having plenty to do with it.
After the draw to Fulham last time in the league, Arsenal now turns its attention to Everton at the Emirates as it looks to continue its pursuit of Liverpool.
And when it comes to stopping Saka, we say good luck, Everton.