Bukayo Saka has been one of the best wingers in the Premier League in the last few years and is one of the best star players at Arsenal. Being only 22 years old, he is one of the brightest and most talented youngsters in England and one to watch in the future. He has also become a fan favorite at the Emirates and is leading them in a Premier League title race this season.
But despite all his talent and all his achievements so far, he gets criticism just like any other soccer player. And this time it has upset a lot of Arsenal fans, with Rio Ferdinand weighing his opinion on the talented youngster after having trolled another Premier League star.
Manchester United legend’s verdict on Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka has been a consistent performer for Arsenal ever since manager Mikel Arteta brought him up to the first team. He has been amazing this season as well, leading their front line as they hope to win the Premier League this season.
Saka put on his best performance during last Sunday’s clash against West Ham, when he scored a brace in the 6-0 thrashing. Many are even calling him the best winger in England and the world as well. But despite his great performances this season, one legend of the sport does not believe in all the hype.
That is legendary center-back and former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand. During his long career, he played with and against the best, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, among other legendary figures.
Rio Ferdinand " Saka is not yet a world class player because he has not proved in the Champions league"
— THE RED ARMY (@nischal_15) February 14, 2024
Thoughts ❓ pic.twitter.com/9M8Xa4guEA
The former defender spoke about Bukayo Saka on his podcast, FIVE. He believed that the talented winger was indeed very good but did not want to give the label ‘world class’ to him yet. When asked if Saka is world-class, he said, “Not yet. Listen, I think Saka’s been unreal. I actually think he needs a bit of a rest, so many games for a young kid.”
He also pointed out his lack of experience in the Champions League, the biggest club competition. “But I think, it’s almost like what is world-class? He hasn’t done it in the Champions League, has he? I’m talking in the nitty-gritty stages. Saka’s top, don’t get me wrong. He’s not world-class yet.”
Saka’s performance so far this season
While Ferdinand may have some very convincing points on why Bukayo Saka isn’t among the best yet, Arsenal fans would tell you otherwise. That is because the young Gunner has only been amazing for them all season, which is a primary reason for their success so far.
Saka:
— GunnerKing (@GunnerKing14) February 11, 2024
13 goals 🥅
13 assists ⚽
31 games in all comps.
10 goals 🥅
8 assists ⚽
23 games in the prem
3 goals 🥅
5 assists ⚽
5 UCL games.
….and I'm supposed to believe Saka is having A bad season? 😭 pic.twitter.com/FLSsa0h4wk
After all, Saka has been prolific this season up front. He is their top scorer so far with 13 goals in all competitions, while also being their top assist provider with 12. This means he has already hit double digits in both categories, which will only grow as the season progresses.
Saka is no doubt their best player right now and one of the Premier League’s brightest stars. He will get another chance to prove his brilliance when Arsenal take on Burnley in the Premier League this Saturday.
