Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has often spoken very highly of Bukayo Saka, drawing comparisons that underline the winger’s growing status in world football. Arteta regularly highlights Saka’s consistency, mentality, and ability to deliver in big games, pointing out that very few players of his age show such maturity.

At times, Arteta has compared Saka’s influence on Arsenal to the way Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo carried their teams, stressing that while Saka is still developing, his importance to the Gunners is already immense. He often praises Saka’s professionalism, noting that despite being young, he trains and competes with the mindset of an experienced leader.

Arteta has also likened Saka to Arsenal legends of the past, such as Thierry Henry, in terms of being a decisive match-winner who can change games with a moment of brilliance. For the manager, Saka is not just a talented winger but the heartbeat of the team, capable of inspiring those around him.

In essence, Arteta’s comparisons are meant to place Saka among the elite while reminding him of the responsibility he carries. He sees the England international as central to Arsenal’s present success and future ambitions.

Liverpool will go into tomorrow’s clash with Chelsea without several important players, as injuries continue to affect Arne Slot’s squad. First-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been ruled out after suffering a hamstring problem in the Champions League loss to Galatasaray. The Brazilian will not return until after the international break, leaving recent signing Giorgi Mamardashvili to step in between the posts at Stamford Bridge.

In attack, there are concerns over Hugo Ekitike, who was forced off in midweek with discomfort. Although the issue is not believed to be serious, he is unlikely to be risked. Federico Chiesa is also a doubt after missing the Galatasaray match due to a minor muscle injury, and his fitness will be assessed before kick-off.

Defensively, Liverpool are without Giovanni Leoni, who is sidelined for the season following surgery on a torn ACL suffered against Southampton. His absence leaves Slot with fewer options at centre-back, adding pressure to the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.

With two consecutive defeats to recover from, these missing names are a setback, but Slot will hope his available squad can respond strongly and secure a vital result away at Chelsea.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has offered some revealing comments about his defensive options, dropping hints about two players while also addressing the club’s ongoing interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. Slot confirmed that a deal has been agreed for young centre-back Giovanni Leoni from Parma, although the official announcement has yet to be made. The Dutch coach expressed excitement about Leoni’s potential, viewing him as an investment for the future and someone who can eventually strengthen Liverpool’s backline.

At the same time, Slot admitted that missing out on Guéhi during the transfer window was “a pity,” suggesting that Liverpool remain keen on the England international. The Reds had been close to securing his signature before negotiations stalled, but Slot’s comments indicate that the door is not closed, with January or next summer being possible windows to revisit the deal.

These remarks underline Liverpool’s determination to reinforce their defence, especially with injuries already affecting depth. While Leoni’s arrival provides long-term security, the pursuit of Guéhi highlights Slot’s desire for an immediate, proven option. By hinting at both players, Slot made it clear that Liverpool are planning carefully to ensure stability and competitiveness at the heart of defence.