Bukayo Saka’s recent performances have sparked debate among Arsenal supporters and analysts, as the 24-year-old winger’s form comes under scrutiny during a pivotal stage of the club’s season. Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final—marking their 50th game of a demanding campaign—was only their fourth loss in all competitions, but Saka’s display as captain drew criticism, further highlighting concerns about his output and the team’s reliance on him.
Arsenal remain well-positioned across competitions, sitting strongly in the Premier League while advancing to the quarter-finals of both the FA Cup and Champions League. However, Saka’s contribution has become a focal point, with many questioning whether his recent dip could impact Arsenal’s trophy ambitions. The winger has registered just two goals since January, featuring in 17 games while missing three due to a hip injury. Notably, before scoring as a number 10 in a 2-2 draw with Wolves last month, Saka endured a 15-match goal drought across all competitions.
This reduction in end product is stark compared to his previous standards. For the season, Saka has six league goals from 27 appearances and nine goals in all competitions. The Carabao Cup final marked his 305th appearance for Arsenal—a remarkable tally for his age—which underscores both his consistency and the physical demands placed upon him. For the past six seasons, Saka has consistently ranked among Arsenal’s leaders in minutes played.
Wayne Rooney weighed in on the situation, stating that “the pressure to win trophies can tally up and make it difficult,” and suggested that Saka “has struggled this season” after playing so many games at such a young age. Rooney added that while everyone knows there is more to come from Saka, fatigue may be taking its toll.
Managerial concerns extend beyond club football. England manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly attempting to protect key players with the World Cup approaching. With Saka considered nearly certain to start for England, Tuchel has given him the first week of this international window off for rest.
Saka’s importance to Arsenal is reinforced by his new five-year contract signed in February—a move aimed at securing his presence through his prime years. His connection with supporters, given his academy roots and status as a “franchise player” for both Arsenal and their American ownership, means any drop-off in performance attracts immediate attention.
According to reports, tactical factors have also played a role in Saka’s reduced effectiveness. Injuries elsewhere in the squad have affected familiar combinations on Arsenal’s right flank. Martin Odegaard has started just 13 league games due to fitness issues; Ben White has also struggled for form and availability; Jurrien Timber has been preferred at times when fit. This disruption has undermined the synergy previously seen between Saka, Odegaard, and White—a trio known for their fluid interplay and ability to generate space down the right side.
Further complicating matters are injuries to Kai Havertz and an evolving partnership with summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, whose integration is still ongoing according to reports. These tactical adjustments have led to less consistent service for Saka and altered attacking dynamics.
Saka’s durability remains noteworthy despite recent setbacks. His first major injury—a hamstring problem last season—kept him out for 101 days, but he returned emphatically with goals against Fulham and Real Madrid as Arsenal progressed deep into European competition. He became the youngest Englishman to reach 250 appearances for Arsenal during that stretch.
With over 300 matches now under his belt before turning 25, questions about management of his workload persist as Arsenal enter a critical phase domestically and in Europe. According to reports, any continued dip from their talismanic winger could have significant tactical implications as Mikel Arteta seeks solutions amid injuries elsewhere on the pitch.
