Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka can still improve 'a lot' and says his players must enjoy the final 10 games of the season. The Gunners hold an eight-point lead over Manchester City after beating Crystal Palace before the international break as they prepare to continue their fight for the Premier League title.
Arsenal legend Paul Merson believes Saka will need to adapt his game as his career progresses in order to stay at the top as opponents try to limit his impact on matches. The Hale End star is in talks to sign a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium after football.london reported that Arsenal had actually activated a one-year extension option in Saka's contract - with his current deal now set to expire in 2024.
football.london reported last month that the 21-year-old had informed the club of his desire to stay put thus handing Manchester City and Liverpool - two clubs that have been heavily linked with a move for the winger - a major blow heading into the summer transfer window. Arteta will be relying on Saka to continue his stunning form this season heading into the final 10 games of the 2022/23 campaign as Arsenal chase down a first Premier League title in nearly 20 years.
READ MORE: When Arsenal will confirm Bukayo Saka contract, £40m Kieran Tierney decision and Trossard impact
The Gunners still have tough tests to overcome with games against Liverpool, Chelsea and a potential title decider with City set to take place at the Etihad Stadium towards the end of April. When asked what will make the difference in the title race, Arteta told Sky Sports: "I think it’s going to be what do we do every single day.
"That’s what’s going to decide our outcome. We cannot control the outcome of other clubs.
"What we can control is, what are we going to do every single day, how we behave, train, communicate and the energy we bring. The message that we send to our people as well.
"Now it has to be about enjoying the last part of the season with enthusiasm, energy, with a real hunger to do and continue to do what we have done, and if possible, better."
Saka has been one of the Gunners' standout performers this season but the Arsenal boss still thinks he can improve a lot. Arteta continued: "First of all, I think you have to recognise what he [Saka] has been doing.
"The consistency that he has shown. At his age and at this level, it is something rare to see.
"He is taking it with normality. If you ask me if he has room for improvement, I would say: 'Yes - a lot.'
"He's never satisfied, he always wants more and he can still do a lot of things better and more efficiently. But we are really pleased to have him."
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