Is Arsenal's reliance on Saka starting to show?
- Published
Are the first signs of Arsenal's reliance on Bukayo Saka starting to show?
Saka captained Arsenal for the Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City and his performance, along with his recent form, has been called into question by supporters and pundits as the Gunners missed out on their first piece of silverware since 2020.
"That pressure to win trophies can tally up and make it difficult," former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney said when speaking about Saka's form.
"I think he has struggled this season. He has played a lot of games in his career already. I think we all know there is more there."
Part of the reason that Saka's form has been called into question is because of the high standards and impressive performances expected from the Arsenal winger.
The 24-year-old signed a new five-year deal with his boyhood club in February as they moved to secure his future for the prime years of his career.
Saka's importance to Arsenal cannot be underestimated. His story, connection with the fans and academy, and his importance to his team cannot be replaced.
However, the England international has only two goals since the turn of the year. He has played 17 games and missed three matches with a hip injury.
And, before his goal in the 2-2 draw against Wolves last month, when Saka played as a number 10, he had not found the net for 15 games in all competitions. He has scored six league goals in 27 appearances this season.
Saka has played a lot of football in his career. The appearance against City in the final was his 305th for Arsenal in all competitions.
But that is exactly what his manager Mikel Arteta wants from him: reliability.
In 2022, when asked about giving Saka a rest, the Arsenal boss pointed at the number of games the elite players in football play.
"Look at the top players in the world. They play 70 matches - every three days - and make the difference and win the game," he said.
"You want to be at the top, you have to be able to do that."