Bukayo Saka has revealed what he noticed in their Champions League semi-final first leg with Paris Saint-Germain that could help Arsenal in the Parc Des Princes next Wednesday night.
The Gunners' talisman endured a relatively quiet evening at Emirates Stadium with Ousmane Dembele, who could miss the second leg through injury, grabbing the only goal of the game. Despite not scoring and therefore knowing they must secure a positive result in France, Saka has insisted he and his teammates are relaxed.
"It's important to stay calm," he said in an interview with Sky Sports. "Obviously we know we have another level to go [to] and I think we're going to show that in Paris. I'm confident we can turn it around."
On how he viewed his own performance, Saka added: "It was tough to find spaces, they put a lot of bodies around me, and defended well. I'm just looking at which spaces I can find at the second leg." Arsenal beat PSG back in early October and, though there was only two differences in the starting XI's deployed, they were quite noticeable.
Neither Dembele, due to a disciplinary issue, or Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who was still at Napoli, played in that game and it was the duo that combined for their goal earlier this week with Saka full of praise for their display.
"I would say so, probably," he said when asked if PSG were the best team they have played this season. "They have a good manager and some top quality players. A lot of threat at the top end of the pitch. In midfield - as well - they keep the ball really well and they try to make you run and I don't think anyone likes to run."
Their defensive dominance has also helped them win many games in Europe with Saka now fully aware of just how impressive Nuno Mendes is.
"He's a top full-back, so quick as well," he said when asked about the Portugal international. "I always enjoy those battles and I'm looking forward to going again next week." Saka will fancy his chances to get some joy next week especially as the message is clear in the dressing room.
Asked about the reaction to the defeat, he said: "We were calm. Obviously, a little frustrated and disappointed in ourselves but, like I said, the most important thing is to stay calm because it is far from over."
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UEFA Champions League
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