Mikel Arteta backs Bukayo Saka to shine in new Arsenal midfield role

Mikel Arteta has revealed Bukayo Saka is embracing the challenge of playing in a central midfield role as Arsenal navigate an injury crisis.

The England international has been deployed almost exclusively on the right wing under the Spaniard, barring brief spells in other positions post-pandemic.

However, a warm-up injury to Riccardo Calafiori against Wigan on Sunday forced a late tactical reshuffle for the Gunners.

Saka was moved into the engine room alongside Eberechi Eze and impressed during his 45-minute cameo.

Adapting to the No 10 position

With captain Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz unavailable for Wednesday’s trip to Wolves, the Arsenal manager is seriously considering retaining the Hale End graduate in the centre.

Arteta believes recent fitness issues have forced the squad to demonstrate their versatility.

“Yeah, obviously the circumstances of certain players as well sometimes force you to do certain things,” Arteta said.

“Mikel [Merino] adapted incredibly well to a nine position because we missed Kai and Gabi [Jesus] at the time. And now we have issues with midfielders, and players are stepping in.”

The Gunners boss admitted that while the move was born out of necessity, it could be a long-term option.

“Bukayo’s case as well, it’s obviously one that we need to consider for the future,” he added.

“But really good, especially that the players respond to different types of roles in the manner that they are doing.”

Thriving on the challenge

When asked if the 22-year-old enjoyed the tactical switch, Arteta suggested the player is motivated by the need to validate his quality in different areas of the pitch.

“I think he does and everything that brings a challenge to him and he needs to prove something,” said the Spaniard.

“I think it takes something from him and I think it’s something positive.”

Deploying Saka as a number 10 would allow Noni Madueke to retain his spot on the flank, with the winger in fine form having scored three goals in his last five outings.

Chemistry with Madueke

The duo combined effectively against Wigan and share a close friendship off the pitch which Arteta believes is bolstering squad morale.

“This morning we had another one,” Arteta explained.

“They were in the gym and they were testing, and everyone was trying to compete with each other, and those two were hilarious as usual.

“It’s great to witness, because it’s natural – the way they like each other so much, they’re constantly together, and there is some competition within the places, but the team benefits from that.”