Bukayo Saka's commanding performance in Arsenal's opening match of the new Premier League season against Coventry City (3-0) has convinced many pundits of the Gunners' determination to retain their title. The 24-year-old winger dominated on the right flank, tormenting defender Jay Dasilva and scoring a stunning goal, showcasing the pace and ease that were missing towards the end of last season.
In spring 2026, Saka suffered an Achilles injury that saw him miss several key matches, including international fixtures and seven games for the Gunners. Eager to help his team secure their first title in 22 years, he rushed his recovery. However, a lacklustre finish to the club season and being substituted in the Champions League final against PSG in Budapest led to a wave of criticism.
During the World Cup, England manager Thomas Tuchel carefully managed the winger's playing time, with Saka spending just 357 minutes on the pitch (48% of the team's total playing time). Yet, he showcased phenomenal efficiency, contributing three goals and three assists—an average of a goal or assist every 60 minutes—including a hat-trick in the third-place playoff against France (6-4).
Reflecting on his summer, Saka admitted he shortened his holiday to prepare for the title defence:
The World Cup didn't go exactly as I wanted for myself and the team. After the tournament, I felt a massive hunger for victories. I took only a seven-day break and went straight back to training. I've put in a huge amount of physical work to get into optimal shape and help Arsenal from the start of the season.
A critical factor in Saka's resurgence has been the return of his key teammates. His interplay with right-back Ben White, whose forward runs create space on the flank, along with the chemistry he shares with Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, has returned variety to Arsenal's attack. Over the last three seasons, Saka has played 153 matches for the club, but the enforced break and careful management of his playing time mean he is fully recharged as the new season unfolds.
