"A player who knows how to not love him."
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed generous affection for ace Saka, who burst his comeback celebration upon returning after 101 days.
Bukayo Saka of the 'Arnal Star' took to the ground in the second half of the English Premier League's 30th round home game against Fulham at the Emirates Stadium in London on the 2nd (Korea time).
Fans cheered enthusiastically for his return after 101 days since he went to the operating table due to a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace in December last year. Saka, who played six training sessions and closed-door friendlies, was initially expected to start, but he was listed on the replacement list. And Arsenal was put in place of Ethan Nwaneri, who helped Merino's goal in the 21st minute of the second half when they were slightly ahead 1-0 thanks to Mikel Merino's goal in the 37th minute of the first half. Saka's long-awaited appearance welcomed the return of the England national team star with cheers and a standing ovation, including Arsenal's home fans as well as 3,000 away fans from Fulham.
Seven minutes were enough to prove the star's qualifications. In the 28th minute of the second half, Saka opened the net with a header following Merino's cross and Gabriel Martinelli's pass. Six goals and 11 assists in 17 Premier League matches. Saka's celebration was directed at another teammate, compulsory support staff and trainers who had been with him for 101 days of grueling treatment and rehabilitation. He ran to the bench and celebrated his return goal with his trainers.
Arsenal conceded a comeback goal to Fulham Hodrigo Munis in extra time in the second half, but won 2-1 to narrow the gap between 61 points and second-place Liverpool (70 points).
Arteta did not hide his joy in an interview with Arsenal. Regarding Saka's return, "Our fans' reaction to Bukayo's love, respect, and praise was beautiful. He fully deserves it." On Saka's run towards his trainers after his comeback goal, Arteta said, `My first reaction right after the score was to thank sports scientists, physiotherapists, and everyone who helped him recover. It was a good moment and an important moment that informed the people behind the player. I can't help but love him because I can see what kind of person he is."
"He's been in team training for the last nine days and he's been impressive right away. I knew we needed to prepare thoroughly because the moment we put him in is the most important part of this season, and I'm really happy because we've solved a very tricky problem by respecting the (rehabilitation) period.
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
