By Martin Graham
Arsenal’s loss to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final marked their 50th match of an intense campaign, ending hopes of a quadruple. Despite that setback, the season remains highly promising. The club sits strongly in the Premier League and has reached the quarter-finals of both the FA Cup and the Champions League, with just four defeats across all competitions.
In that final, Bukayo Saka wore the captain’s armband, but both his display and recent performances have drawn criticism from fans and analysts. As expectations rise, so does the focus on his contributions, particularly given his importance to the team and his status within the club.
Former England striker Wayne Rooney suggested that the pressure of competing for trophies may be affecting Saka, noting that his performances this season have not matched previous levels. He also pointed out that the winger has already accumulated a significant number of appearances at a relatively young age.
Saka recently committed his future to Arsenal with a new five-year contract, reinforcing his role as a central figure during his peak years. His connection to the club, having come through the academy, and his importance on and off the pitch make him irreplaceable. However, that prominence also means that any dip in form quickly becomes a talking point.
Numbers, fatigue and tactical challenges
Statistically, Saka’s output has declined compared to expectations. Since the start of the year, he has scored only twice, featuring in 17 matches and missing three due to a hip issue. Before netting in a 2-2 draw against Wolves, he had gone 15 games without a goal in all competitions. In the league, he has six goals from 27 appearances.
Despite this, underlying metrics indicate he may have been unfortunate. Expected goals data suggests he should have registered at least one additional goal and three more assists. His influence often extends beyond direct contributions, as opponents frequently assign multiple defenders to contain him, opening space for teammates rather than boosting his own statistics.
Injuries within Arsenal’s squad have also disrupted his effectiveness. Martin Odegaard has endured a stop-start season with multiple injuries, limiting him to 13 league starts. Similarly, Ben White has struggled for fitness, while Jurrien Timber has often been preferred when available.
Previously, the right flank combination between Saka, Odegaard and White provided fluid movement and space. This season, that chemistry has been disrupted. Injuries to Kai Havertz have further complicated matters, while Saka’s link-up with summer signing Viktor Gyokeres has yet to fully develop.
Workload, injuries and long-term importance
Saka’s durability has been a defining trait, though recent seasons have shown signs of strain. His first major setback came last season with a hamstring injury that sidelined him for 101 days. He returned strongly, scoring against Fulham and later finding the net at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid during Arsenal’s Champions League run, which ended against Paris Saint-Germain.
This campaign has brought further physical issues, including another hamstring problem earlier in the season and a hip injury that caused him to withdraw during the warm-up against Leeds, leading to three missed matches. Even so, he has already accumulated 2,869 minutes across competitions, exceeding last season’s total.
Manager Mikel Arteta has consistently emphasized the demands placed on elite players, pointing out that top performers often play up to 70 matches a season. For him, reliability and availability are essential qualities at the highest level.
With as many as 15 matches still possible if Arsenal reach multiple finals, Saka’s total could rise to 57 appearances this season. England manager Thomas Tuchel has already taken steps to manage his workload, granting him rest during the current international window ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
While this may not be Saka’s most productive season statistically, its significance could be measured differently. If he plays a decisive role in ending Arsenal’s trophy drought and contributes to England’s World Cup ambitions, this campaign may ultimately stand out as one of the most important of his career.