CAN THE WIDEMAN KEEP ARSENAL In CONTENTION?
BUKAYO SAKA ARSENAL It feels like Saka downloads new software patches to his game every few weeks. There’s simply no other explanation of how this season, he can unleash rockets into the top corner, dictate play from out wide and playmake like a veteran.
The makeshift left-back of Mikel Arteta’s first match in management is now the spell-bending right-winger who unlocks defences on the regular. He’s added so much to his game in just three years: still only 21, he’s arguably the most captivating player Gareth Southgate has right now.
At the heart of Saka’s game – and Arsenal’s title challenge – has been one key attribute. His decision-making is truly special. He sees the game in four dimensions and knows exactly where to put himself and the ball. Dashing to connect with Gabriel Martinelli’s cross against Liverpool; smashing the ball into the roof of the net against Leeds, just because it was the only space available; finding Leandro Trossard at the back post against Brentford, rather than squaring the ball centrally. It’s as if he’s played these moments over and over, and knows exactly which opportunity is best.
The highlights reel is endless – Arsenal’s finest moments of the season have nearly all involved their No.7. If star players are the embodiment of their manager, then it’s a compliment to Arteta that his is such a fiercely intelligent footballer capable of holding the crowd in the palm of his hand.
Saka has risen to become one of the most exciting footballers on Earth: everything in the Gunners’ high-energy, possession-heavy system goes through him. He is Arsenal
– and what’s more, he doesn’t even turn 22 until September. How much better this Hale End-nurtured hero can get is a thrilling – and frankly, terrifying – discovery ahead.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT Saka’s curling 25-yard drive at home against Manchester United, equal to Marcus Rashford’s opener. Anything you can do…