Arteta wants Saka’s renewal at Arsenal: “He’s happy”, like Saliba

Arteta Wants Saka Renewal: A Fundamental Pillar for Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his desire for Bukayo Saka to follow in the footsteps of teammate William Saliba and extend his contract with the club. Sources close to the matter reported that Arsenal managed to secure Saliba for five more years, surpassing Real Madrid’s interest. The official confirmation of the defender’s renewal is expected to be announced soon. Saka’s current contract with Arsenal expires in 2027. Although there are no indications that the English international wants to leave, it is not believed that the signing of a new contract is close to being announced.

I would love that to happen.

Mikel Arteta

Arteta commented: “From everything I know, he is an extremely happy player and proud to have the role he has in the club. Things will develop naturally, as always, and everyone knows how important Bukayo is to us. Hopefully we can do it.” Both Saka and Saliba have been key players for Arsenal, and along with Gabriel, who also signed a new contract in June, they have formed possibly the best defensive partnership in the Premier League. Before their match against Newcastle on Sunday, Arteta’s team has only conceded one goal from open play so far this season.

The ability of Arsenal to retain the French international, who has been included in the PFA Team of the Year for the last three seasons, is a clear statement of intent as Arteta seeks to end the club’s 22-year wait for a title. The Spaniard’s only trophy in his almost six years in charge is the 2020 FA Cup triumph. Referring to Real Madrid’s interest in Saliba, Arteta continued: “When you hear that noise, you can understand certain expectations. Players have feelings, and maybe they dream of something someday and that’s very natural. When I sat down with William and asked him the question, he told me: ‘No, I want to stay here, I want to play for you, and I am very happy’, in his own way, so it was great to hear that.”

• Arsenal prepares to face Newcastle on Sunday.
• Ødegaard could be available after a shoulder injury.
• Madueke and Havertz remain absent due to knee problems.

Captain Martin Ødegaard could be available for Arsenal’s match at St James’ Park on Sunday, after a three-match absence due to a shoulder injury. However, Noni Madueke and Kai Havertz remain out with knee problems. The Arsenal, who have lost four of their last five visits to Newcastle, are five points behind league leaders Liverpool.