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Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is capable of playing for Spanish giants Real Madrid, according to pundit Roy Keane.
The former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland midfielder believes Saka has the quality to line out for the La Liga outfit.
Arsenal youngster has ‘bounced back from criticism’
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Saka boasts plenty of big-game experience, having already picked up over 150 appearances for the Gunners, despite being just 21 years old.
He is also a fully-fledged England international. The winger has, however, endured both joy and heartbreak for the Three Lions, missing a penalty as England lost to Italy in the final of Euro 2020. But Keane believes Saka has bounced back from that pain and indeed the criticism that followed.
“For such a young player he’s already had a lot of experience,” said Keane, as reported by the Metro.
“He’s already got his hands on a trophy in the FA Cup, he’s had a big disappointment with England in terms of missing the penalty. He got a lot of criticism for that but he bounced back well, which shows you good signs.”
Fantastic Saka good enough for Madrid
Keane added that Saka is certainly looking like he is enjoying his time on the pitch, with the Arsenal winger demonstrating such feelings with his stunning goal in Sunday’s 3-2 victory over Man United.
The superb strike took his goals tally for the season to seven in all competitions, with the Arsenal attacker also chipping in with seven assists so far.
Keane has been hugely impressed by the Arsenal man, and says the 21-year-old is good enough to represent any of the top European clubs, including Spanish powerhouses Real Madrid.
“The key for the player himself is that he looks like he goes out and enjoys the game,” said Keane. “He looks like a really nice lad away from the game which always helps but when he’s playing, he can beat a man.
“When you’re playing for the big clubs you need one or two players that can beat a man because that changes the picture in football matches.
“I like everything about him. I think he can go and play for any of the big clubs in Europe and I’m including Real Madrid in that. I think he’s that good. I think he’s fantastic, what a talent. I love watching him.”
Saka helps Arsenal extend league lead
Saka played a key role in the five-goal thriller at the Emirates on Sunday, keeping Man United full-back Luke Shaw on his toes for the entirety of the game.
In fact, visiting boss Erik ten Hag was forced to bring on midfielder Fred to give Shaw some much-needed help in the second half, with the Red Devils duo doubling up on the tricky Saka. But it wasn’t enough to clinch even a point as Arsenal ran out 3-2 winners to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Mikel Arteta’s men now have 50 points to their name, five ahead of Manchester City. The Gunners also have a game in hand over Pep Guardiola’s side.
What a WIN! 🔴
We never stopped believing. Thank your for the support Gunners, the energy was unreal. We keep going! pic.twitter.com/TR1jFsQw3c— Bukayo Saka (@BukayoSaka87) January 22, 2023
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