During his pre-match press conference, Arteta offered surprising insight into his squad, challenging the widely accepted view regarding Arsenal’s most skillful player and teasing fans with the promise of a surprise inclusion in the starting lineup — one that could capture global attention.
Arteta addressed reporters by first acknowledging the immense talent of Bukayo Saka, the beloved Arsenal winger and one of the most consistent performers at the club.
However, in a bold twist, Arteta stated, “Most people think Saka is our most skillful player, but he’s not.”
His comments immediately raised eyebrows, as Saka has been widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players not just at Arsenal, but in the Premier League.
Arteta went on to explain that there is another rising star from the Arsenal academy who, in his opinion, is even more remarkable when it comes to technical ability.
Without revealing the player’s name, Arteta hinted that this young prospect would be handed a start in Arsenal’s upcoming match — a decision that has already fueled widespread excitement among supporters and media alike.
“This young man has been phenomenal in training.
His confidence, the way he handles the ball, and his ability to make smart decisions under pressure are far beyond what you would expect from someone his age,” Arteta shared.
He emphasized that this was the right moment to introduce the youngster to senior football, suggesting that the player’s inclusion could turn heads on a much larger scale.
Naturally, Arteta’s announcement has sparked intense speculation on social media and among football commentators.
Many believe that the unnamed player could be either Ethan Nwaneri or Myles Lewis-Skelly — two standout talents from Arsenal’s academy who have already been on the radar of fans and scouts.
Both players have drawn praise in youth competitions and are seen as bright prospects with enormous potential.
By making this unexpected decision, Arteta is reinforcing Arsenal’s growing commitment to promoting homegrown talent and investing in the club’s long-term future.
It also highlights the confidence Arteta has in the depth of his squad, particularly in the emerging generation of academy players.
As anticipation builds ahead of the match, supporters are eager to see which young star Arteta has chosen and whether this bold move will pay off.
One thing is clear: Arteta’s faith in Arsenal’s academy is setting the stage for what could be a defining moment for the club’s next wave of talent.
