Joe Cole has stated that Arsenal duo Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka are now worth ‘at least £100 million’, as he told the All to Play for Podcast.
The former England international added that the two Hale-End stars are ‘holding Arsenal together’.
From coming through the Arsenal academy and costing nothing, it’s fair to say that a lot would be needed to lure them away from their boyhood clubs now.
What is even more impressive about the duo’s rise is that it has come during a time when Arsenal have struggled the most.
The fact that two young players have been able to deal with such pressures is a testament to how they have been brought up, their mental toughness and the talent in their boots.
During his playing days, Cole was ahead of his time in regards to the type of player he was, with the former title-winner able to carry and move the ball with ease.
He shared his thoughts on Smith Rowe and Saka and how they have stepped up for their club.
“Smith Rowe, he is holding Arsenal together,” said Cole. “What is 21 or 22? He’s the man they look to, him and Saka.
“I think there are certain managers out there that are known, and when they go for jobs, they say ‘I bring youngsters in’.
“Young players are a commodity now. At Arsenal now, Saka and Smith Rowe, that must be at least £100 million worth of players.”
Both Saka and Smith Rowe were involved with England recently, with the latter earning his debut.
It may have been against the worst side in the world in San Marino, but both players did their jobs, got on the scoresheet and helped the Three Lions to a 10-0 win.
Whilst Saka is an England regular, this is Smith Rowe’s chance to climb that ladder and cement his place with the big boys.
With the 2022 World Cup in Qatar around the corner, he certainly has a chance to do that if he continues his upward trajectory.
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