Mikel Arteta with Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka says Mikel Arteta is the perfect coach for him as the Arsenal star lifted the lid on their relationship. Saka made his debut for the Gunners back in 2018 aged just 17, with former manager Unai Emery showing huge faith to give him his first shot in the first team.

But since Arteta replaced Emery, the now 24-year-old has grown into one of the biggest stars in world football and is part of the leadership group under his Spanish manager.

Arteta has helped shape Saka since he was 19, and he often wears the armband in Martin Odegaard's absence. Arteta clearly trusts Saka and the feeling is very much mutual, with the England international opening up on his manager in an in-depth interview.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Saka admitted Arteta's "ups and downs" throughout his playing and managerial career have made him a better coach - and he revealed they have a great relationship.

He said: "I think the relationship's always been really good with Mikel. He's always put a lot of trust in me from a young age...