Arteta also hailed Madueke, noting that “he consistently attempts bold dribbles and poses a threat to opponents.”
By Kehinde Okeowo
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained his decision to substitute Bukayo Saka during his team’s UEFA Champions League (UCL) Round of 16 first-leg tie against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday night, suggesting his stand-in captain was below par.
The Spanish tactician made this known during his post-match interview after the Gunners rallied to secure a hard-fought draw.
Saka made way for Noni Madueke in the 60th minute of the European encounter at the BayArena in Germany.
Madueke was eventually brought down in the penalty area, and the resulting spot-kick was converted in the 89th minute by Kai Havertz to earn Arsenal a 1-1 draw.
Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted he needed something different from the right wing.
“I thought that we needed something else. Noni has been contributing and being a real threat, and I decided to make the change,” he said.
The gaffer also praised the former Chelsea winger after he won the penalty that earned his side the crucial draw.
Arteta noted: “It’s not surprising; that’s his greatest strength. He consistently attempts bold dribbles and poses a threat to opponents.”
