Arsenal legend David O'Leary has expressed serious concerns over Bukayo Saka’s current form, stating that the winger is not living up to the expectations of being one of the Premier League’s top earners.
Back in February, the young Englishman signed a lucrative contract with the Gunners, reportedly earning around £300,000 a week. However, O'Leary believes that since penning that deal, Saka’s performances have noticeably declined.
This season, Saka has found the back of the net only three times in eight matches across all competitions, with his last goal coming on September 12 against Sunderland.
During a recent victory against Leeds, which Arsenal won 2-1, Saka had little impact, failing to contribute to any goals with a mere two shots and just one dribble attempt.
Speaking on talkSPORT, O'Leary stated:
I really don’t think he is in the best shape right now. I really like the lad; I've watched him since the start of his career.
But it seems to me that he goes down too easily. It’s like he’s waiting for contact from opponents to hit the ground.
The former Arsenal defender, who spent 18 years at the club, suggested that in the past, Saka played with far more courage.
O'Leary added:
He used to be much more decisive. He didn’t let defenders take him down as easily.
Right now, he’s not the player he used to be. He’s still a brilliant player, but does his current performance justify the massive contract that makes him one of the highest-paid players in the country? At the moment, I don’t think so.
Despite his criticism, O'Leary emphasised that he does not think Saka’s attitude has changed post-contract. He does not perceive the young talent as becoming arrogant.
He continued:
I don’t know what’s happened. But when I look at the evolution of the team, especially how others are playing, like Declan Rice, it’s clear that Saka needs to step it up.
If he raises his game, Arsenal will be much stronger.
O'Leary also speculated that Saka’s reluctance might stem from the rigorous play by opponents, as defenders have been focusing on him and often employing heavy challenges.
However, he believes this should not hinder the Englishman’s game.
Maybe he sees the strong contact coming and knows he poses a significant threat to opponents.
But sometimes, he waits too long. He needs to be stronger and realise that the treatment from defenders is a reflection of his reputation. He must show some character.
O'Leary didn’t hold back in his assessments of Viktor Dykeresh, who has gradually lost his starting position at Arsenal.
The Swedish forward, signed for £63.7 million, has played only 56 minutes across three matches this season, with Mikel Arteta preferring Kai Havertz instead.
O'Leary explained:
Looking at Arteta’s decisions this season, it seems clear that Dykeresh won’t be starting if the squad is fully fit.
Most likely, Havertz will play because the manager believes he offers more in terms of partnership with teammates.
Despite the negativity aimed at certain players, Arsenal continues to push for Premier League supremacy, having drawn level on points with Manchester City following their latest win over Leeds.
