One stat after Arsenal win proves Bukayo Saka is now in a league of his own

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Bukayo Saka assisted Kai Havertz’s late winner against Brentford on Saturday evening.

Arsenal had Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz to thank for their victory over the Bees, which took them to the top of the Premier League table after Liverpool and Manchester City had battled to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day.

It was not an easy evening for the Gunners at the Gtech Community Stadium. However, as they have regularly this season, Arsenal were able to grind out a win despite not being at their best. Certainly, as an attacking force, the north London club were frustrated by Brentford, right up until Havertz was able to make the breakthrough in the 89th minute.

With Arsenal in desperate need of someone to provide a moment of quality, Saka once again stepped up to the plate, as the 22-year-old winger already has done so many times in his short career so far. 

In the dying moments of the match, the Hale End academy graduate delivered an inch-perfect cross to the back post, where Havertz was able to nod in past Mark Flekken.

Bukayo Saka’s numbers stand out

This assist took Saka’s tally for the season so far to nine, across all competitions. On top of that, he has also chipped in with six goals.

Saka’s record over the calendar year as a whole is even more impressive. One stat that came to light after the win over Brentford, as reported by Squawka, states that “Bukayo Saka is the only player to have created 50+ chances, completed 50+ take-ons, scored 10+ goals and provided 10+ assists in the Premier League in 2023.” This stat shows just how far ahead of many of his contemporaries he really is.

Arsenal more reliant on Bukayo Saka than ever

Saka is a talismanic figure for Arsenal, and a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium. He is also hugely appreciated by Mikel Arteta. The Spanish coach has already made the 32-cap England international a member of the Arsenal leadership group. 

It is vital to the Gunners’ prospects of mounting a successful title push this season that Saka is able to stay fit throughout the campaign. Not only is he one of the most talented and impactful players on the club’s roster, there is also no natural replacement for him in the squad. 

As a left-footed right winger, Saka is unique amongst the Arsenal first team squad, meaning no other player at Arteta’s disposal can truly replicate his tactical function on the pitch. This is an issue that sporting director Edu may well be keen to address in the transfer market.

For now, though, Arteta won’t be worried about that. He will just be delighted that Saka was able to make the difference for his team in a crucial moment yet again.