Arsenal legend David O’Leary critiques Bukayo Saka's recent performances, suggesting a need for improvement to bolster the Gunners' title defense.
David O'Leary, an Arsenal legend, has raised concerns about Bukayo Saka's current form, stating that the player is "not the player he once was" and asserting that he tends to "go down too easily". Despite a strong start to the 2026/27 season where Saka has netted three goals in six matches for the defending Premier League champions, these remarks signal potential concerns for both Saka and the Gunners.
Having joined Arsenal's academy at just seven years old, Saka has grown into one of the club's most pivotal figures. Since making his first-team debut in 2018, he has accumulated over 300 appearances and scored 84 goals across all competitions. His contributions have been critical in helping Arsenal secure their long-awaited Premier League title.
However, O'Leary's recent comments suggest a disconnect between expectations and performance. The former defender acknowledged Saka's talent but expressed skepticism about whether he deserves his status as one of the top-paid players in the league, a title he gained after signing a lucrative contract in February.
"I really like the guy but I honestly don’t think he’s in the best form," O'Leary articulated during an interview on talkSPORT, underscoring a concern that Saka's approach has changed. "He goes down too much now," O'Leary noted, contrasting this with earlier performances that showcased a more defiant and aggressive player unwilling to let defenders take him down easily. "He’s not the player that he was, without a doubt. He’s still a top player, but is he the player that got this fantastic new contract at Arsenal? I don’t think so at the moment."
Indeed, Saka’s adaptation seems to be under scrutiny not just by O’Leary, but within a broader context of Arsenal’s ambitions this season. His ability to rise to the occasion could be crucial as the Gunners aim to improve upon mixed results thus far. They recently faced a shocking 3-0 defeat to Brighton before the international break, a wake-up call that compelled the team to reassess its identity.
Recent Performance and Tactical Implications
Arsenal's response to the Brighton loss was commendable, as they secured a 2-1 victory over Leeds United. This turnaround was pivotal for both morale and standings. Manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the importance of restoring Arsenal's identity after the loss. "We weren’t pleased against Brighton and today was an opportunity to put that right," he said, highlighting the need for consistency and tenacity in their gameplay.
As teams like Arsenal seek to re-establish themselves as contenders, Saka's form becomes a vital aspect of their strategy. His attacking prowess, ability to navigate tight defenses, and create opportunities for teammates have been integral to Arsenal’s success. O'Leary's critique, while harsh, serves as a reminder that for Arsenal to maintain momentum in the league — especially with the emergence of serious contenders — Saka must rediscover the verve and determination that first made him a household name.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Saka’s Form on Arsenal's Season
The challenge for Saka and the Gunners is finding a way to mesh his individual brilliance with the collective goals of the squad. If he can live up to the high expectations placed upon him, this could transform not only his confidence but also elevate Arsenal's entire campaign. "If he does step up, Arsenal become a more powerful team," O'Leary pointed out, succinctly capturing the stakes of the current moment.
As we approach key fixtures, the pressure on Saka will only increase. Questions about his performance may intensify if he fails to deliver consistent results. Yet, with the right mindset and support, Saka has the potential to shake off any doubts and once again prove his worth, allowing Arsenal to solidify its standing as a title contender.
This season, with its rhythmic ups and downs, setting the tone early can make all the difference. The next matches will be crucial not only for Saka’s form but also for Arsenal's ambitions going forward. In a league that demands excellence week in and week out, the pressure is certainly on to reclaim that star status on the pitch.
