Unai Emery has been speaking to Football London about his time at Arsenal, and he’s reserved some big praise for Bukayo Saka.
The Spaniard, who spent just a season and a half at the Emirates, discussed a range of topics, from his relationship with Mesut Ozil to his grasp of the English language.
When speaking about Saka, Emery said: ‘When he started playing regularly you could look at him and see he’s a very good player. He’s progressing as a very important player and he is a very humble person.
‘Bukayo was amazing as a person and a player. You could tell he’s a very intelligent, smart kid too.’
In truth, the Villarreal boss deserves huge credit for the 19-year-old’s development.
It was Emery who handed the England international his senior debut, throwing a 17-year-old Saka on against Fulham in the Premier League.
Since then, the versatile Hale End graduate has emerged as a key player under Mikel Arteta, putting in some incredible displays in numerous positions.
Saka may have been impressing in the Europa League under Emery at the time.
However, it was still bold of the former Paris Saint-Germain boss to hand the teenager as much game-time as he did, when his own job was under threat towards the end.
Emery may not have been a huge success at the Emirates.
However, he has left a legacy in the likes of Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Joe Willock, who were trusted with plenty of game-time under the Spaniard’s guidance.
His trust in youngsters was admirable, and it’s good to see Emery succeeding back in Spain with Villarreal.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
