Pedro Neto remarked that the Chelsea defender only needed to be himself to stop Bukayo Saka, which made Marc Cucurella smile.
Player of the Match for Sunday’s 1-1 tie at Stamford Bridge went to the Chelsea left-back.Saka and Cucurella engaged in a fierce struggle down the right flank of the Gunners, with Cucurella emerging victorious.
But throughout the day, he managed to keep the England international from posing a serious threat to his goal.
However, Saka’s match ended early when he was replaced by Gabriel Jesus after limping off in the 81st minute after Cucurella’s strong challenge.
After the game, Cucurella and goal scorer Neto spoke to Sky Sports.”I think he is a top player, we’ve played a lot of times in front of each other,” the 26-year-old said when talking about his clash with Saka.
“A lot of respect; I strive to do my best because I believe he’s a fantastic player. It’s a good battle because he wants to accomplish his task, and I hope to continue doing this.”
When asked the “secret” to stopping Saka, Neto responded with the joke, “Being Marc Cucurella.”
Before the Spaniard continued, “I try not to give him space, I try to always be close to him,” Cucurella smiled and Neto laughed at his own joke.I try to complete my duties and support my team since we know he has a unique skill. I have to perform my duties at the pitch.
“I think today I tried to do my best and we got one point.”On Sunday, Cucurella replaced club captain Reece James in the starting lineup.
In Chelsea’s previous two league games, the former Brighton player had come on as a substitute.
“Big respect… he’s a special talent” 🙌
A description of Marc Cucurella’s conflicts with Bukayo Saka ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/1tV7aojmN4
The Premier League of Sky Sports (@SkySportsPL) November 10, 2024Against their London rivals, Enzo Maresca gave him his tenth start of the season in all competitions.
Pedro Neto’s long-range goal negated Gabriel Martinelli’s opening goal, and Chelsea now sit third in the standings after the draw.
Chelsea is still ahead of the Gunners on goal differential as a result.
They haven’t placed in the top three since the last day of the 2021–2022 season.