Bukayo Saka Told to Raise His Game Despite Arsenal’s Win Over Leeds
Bukayo Saka has been urged to raise his level after Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Leeds, with concern voiced over the England winger’s recent performances despite his standing as the club’s highest-paid player.
Key details
| Item | Figure or date | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Arsenal result | 2-1 | Victory against Leeds on Saturday |
| Saka contract | February | Reportedly worth £300,000 per week |
| Next fixture | Champions League | Arsenal are due to face Lille |
The 68-year-old former defender said Saka remains an elite footballer but argued that he has not matched the standards attached to his lucrative February agreement, which reportedly made him Arsenal’s best-paid player and among the leading earners in English football.
His principal concern is a perceived change in Saka’s approach when challenged. Having watched the winger emerge before opponents fully understood his ability, he believes Saka was once more determined to stay on his feet, drive beyond full-backs and resist physical contact.
He suggested that Saka now too often appears to seek a foul after a challenge rather than continuing the attack. In his view, the Arsenal player is not currently performing at the level that earned him his new deal, even if there is no question over his underlying quality.
The criticism came after Arsenal’s home win over Leeds, a match in which Declan Rice was singled out for an influential display. With the team continuing to develop, Saka has been told that he must again become a decisive contributor.
Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Lille gives Mikel Arteta an immediate selection decision. The manager has alternatives on the right, including Noni Madueke, and could choose to manage Saka’s workload. Whether he starts or is rested, the expectation is that Saka must regain the direct, resilient form that has made him central to Arsenal’s ambitions across competitions.
