Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has been one of the club’s most important players in recent seasons, but some supporters and pundits have started questioning whether his form has dipped during the current campaign.
The discussion intensified after Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, a result that ended the club’s hopes of winning four trophies this season. Despite the setback, the Gunners are still competing strongly in several competitions, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
Pressure of Expectations
Former England striker Wayne Rooney recently suggested that the pressure to deliver trophies could be affecting the Arsenal star.
Rooney noted that Saka has already played a huge number of matches at a relatively young age, adding that there is still more to come from the talented winger.
Part of the scrutiny comes from the high standards Saka has set for himself. The 24-year-old has become a key figure for Arsenal, both on and off the pitch, and recently signed a new five-year contract with his boyhood club.
Numbers Below His Usual Standard
While Saka has scored nine goals in all competitions this season, his recent output has not matched the impressive numbers he produced in previous campaigns.
He has scored only two goals since the start of the year, and before netting in a draw against Wolves last month he had gone 15 matches without scoring. In the Premier League, he has recorded six goals in 27 appearances so far this season.
However, underlying statistics suggest he has been somewhat unlucky. Data shows he could have had one more goal and three additional assists based on his expected goals and chances created.
Impact of Injuries Around Him
Another factor behind the dip could be injuries affecting Arsenal’s right-side partnership.
Saka usually thrives when linking up with Martin Ødegaard and Ben White, whose movement helps create space on the wing. But both players have struggled with injuries this season, disrupting the chemistry that previously made that side of Arsenal’s attack so effective.
In addition, striker Kai Havertz has also missed games, while summer signing Viktor Gyokeres is still building a connection with the Arsenal attack.
Heavy Workload
Saka’s workload has also been a talking point. The Carabao Cup final marked his 305th appearance for Arsenal, highlighting how heavily the team relies on him.
He has already played 2,869 minutes this season, more than he managed in the entire previous campaign. With Arsenal still chasing trophies, he could feature in as many as 57 matches this season if the club reaches the finals of the FA Cup and Champions League.
Still a Key Player
Despite the questions surrounding his recent form, Saka remains a central figure for Arsenal. His ability, consistency, and connection with the fans make him one of the club’s most valuable players.
If he helps Arsenal secure silverware this season and plays a key role for England at the upcoming World Cup, the current campaign could still prove to be one of the most important of his career.
