Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a characteristically guarded response to mounting speculation that star winger Bukayo Saka has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
Arteta plays it cool on Saka future
The Gunners boss was directly questioned about a potential announcement regarding Saka's future following his side's emphatic 4-1 victory over Portsmouth in the FA Cup third round. Reports emerged late last week claiming the England international had agreed to a fresh five-year deal that would keep him at the Emirates Stadium until the summer of 2031.
Despite the widespread reports, the North London club has yet to make any official confirmation. When pressed on whether an announcement was imminent, Arteta opted for brevity. "When we have something to announce, we will do it," was his succinct reply to journalists at Fratton Park.
This marked a stark contrast to his comments from September, when he openly expressed his desire for the 22-year-old to extend his stay. "I would love that," Arteta stated at the time, highlighting Saka's happiness and pivotal role within the squad.
Martinelli shines as Gunners progress in FA Cup
Attention on Saturday was firmly on the pitch as Arsenal navigated a potential banana skin against Championship side Portsmouth. The hosts took a surprise early lead through a fine strike from Colby Bishop, but parity was restored just five minutes later thanks to an own goal from Portsmouth defender Andre Dozzell.
From that moment, Gabriel Martinelli seized control of the tie. The Brazilian forward put Arsenal ahead in the 25th minute and proceeded to complete a superb hat-trick, ensuring safe passage to the fourth round of the competition.
Arteta praises Martinelli's resilient response
The match provided a perfect platform for Martinelli to respond after facing some criticism for his actions in the recent goalless draw with Liverpool. Arteta was full of praise for the forward's mentality and performance.
"That's why to play for a big club, you need a big personality," Arteta said. "I love it. Gabi, in every context that you throw him in... Today, he scored three goals. Tomorrow, he's going to train 100 miles an hour, for sure. He's not going to change that. And that's Gabi."
The victory keeps Arsenal's ambitions alive across four competitions, with a League Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea next on the agenda. While the focus returns to a hectic fixture schedule, speculation around Saka's contractual situation is sure to continue until the club breaks its silence.
