Arsenal fans think one man was even better than Bukayo Saka vs Southampton – I was there, they are right

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Arsenal came from behind to record a 3-1 victory over Southampton at the Emirates Stadium, and many fans came away with the same conclusion.

I was at the Emirates on a sunny day in North London, with fans expecting a comfortable victory in the 3pm kick-off in a game which had the feel of a season opener.

However, the pre-match confidence of the Arsenal fans in attendance was shaken as Southampton frustrated the Gunners in the first half before taking the lead early on in the second period through Cameron Archer.

Kai Havertz then inspired Arsenal to an impressive comeback, with Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka also scoring, and Saka was truly incredible as he played a part in all three goals.

Given his goal contributions, as well as creating a remarkable seven chances in a fantastic display, Saka was an obvious contender for the Player of the Match award. However, fans in the ground believed there was someone even better on the day.

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Fans believe Riccardo Calafiori was Arsenal’s best player against Southampton

Summer signing Riccardo Calafiori started again at left-back, and delivered another superb display after an excellent start to his Arsenal career.

The Italian was fierce in tackles, whilst showcasing his outstanding technical ability when pushing forward in possession, and fans at the Emirates were convinced that he was the best player on the pitch against Southampton, despite Saka and Havertz’s goal contributions.

“Calafiori has been flawless today, best player on the pitch,” one fan claimed.

“Some of Calafiori’s tackles have been incredible, man of the match for me,” another stated in the late stages of the match.

“Saka was brilliant, but I’d still give man of the match to Calafiori. He was incredible throughout,” a fan told me as we left the stadium.

Some fans on X agreed, highlighting his magnificent performance as transformative for the Arsenal left side.

“He’s transforming that left hand side. Crazy to think that he’s only 22,” a fan posted.

“Calafiori is the MOTM. He was immense and absolutely drived the whole performance,” another claimed.

Riccardo Calafiori’s complete display vs Southampton

Calafiori only had one moment of weakness against Southampton, which saw the impressive Tyler Dibbling dribble past him, but he was otherwise exceptional in both attacking and defensive situations.

The Italian won several duels high up the pitch which allowed Arsenal to keep possession in the opposition half, with some of his tackles won through a combination of brutal physicality and perfect timing.

He also oozed class with some of his touches, drawing a lot of cheers early on with one remarkable first-touch and dribble to drive the ball up the pitch away from the Southampton press.

It is still early on in his Arsenal career, but Calafiori is already showing his sky-high potential, and there is plenty more to come from him.