Arsenal’s legend Ian Wright has expressed concerns over Bukayo Saka’s workload and believes the 21 years old needs rest.
Bukayo Saka has been a key player for Arsenal this season, starting every game for the club and making a significant impact on the pitch. However, former Arsenal player Ian Wright has called for the 21-year-old to be given a break from first-team action due to the high level of play he has maintained consistently.
Saka was instrumental in Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Manchester United on Sunday, scoring a stunning long-range goal that helped the Gunners move five points clear of Manchester City in the Premier League table. He has also been a key figure for England at the Qatar World Cup and has featured in six European games for Arsenal, as well as starting their recent FA Cup win over League One Oxford United.
Despite Saka’s impressive performances, Wright believes that the young player needs to be given some rest in order to maintain his high level of play in the long-term.
“He’s come up again with the goods for Arsenal,” said Wright. “The way he is playing, he is playing consistently (well).
“I think it’s a good thing now as well, with Trossard coming in there now. He’s got somebody in there, if need be, he can get a break because I think he is going to need one at some stage.
“He is going full tilt since he has been in that first team and his standards are very, very high and he never drops beneath them.” The Gunners legend added.
With the arrival of Leandro Trossard, Wright hopes that Saka will be given some sort of rest soon, although with Arsenal sitting at the top of the table and Manchester City close behind, it is unlikely that Saka will be given a break anytime soon.
Trossard will bring added value, quality, and depth to the forward line, but it is unlikely that he will be able to replace Saka’s contributions to the team.
The only way for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to provide Saka with some breathing space is by taking him off after the hour mark during games, but this will only be possible if the team is more comfortable in the lead.
In conclusion, Bukayo Saka has been a vital player for Arsenal this season, but with a heavy workload and his consistent high-level of play, it is important for the club to find ways to give him rest in order to maintain his performance in the long run.