Arsenal’s victory over Wolves highlighted the brilliance of Bukayo Saka, who once again proved why he’s a key player for the north Londoners. His performance was nothing short of exceptional, and it has led to an intriguing comparison by Mikel Arteta, who likened Saka’s abilities to those of Lionel Messi.

In Arsenal’s 2-0 win, Saka was the standout performer. He scored a goal and set up another, showcasing his technical prowess and ability to navigate through defenders with ease. At just 22 years old, Saka has consistently demonstrated qualities that make him a formidable opponent in 1v1 situations. His ability to outmaneuver defenders, even when they anticipate his moves, is a testament to his exceptional skill set.

Mikel Arteta compares Bukayo Saka with Lionel Messi

Arteta, clearly impressed, suggested that Saka’s ability to beat defenders is reminiscent of what Messi does on the pitch. According to Arteta, defenders often know what Saka intends to do—usually cutting inside and attempting to outfox them—but they still struggle to prevent him from executing his plans. This unpredictability and timing make Saka a constant threat, much like how Messi has operated throughout his career.

Arteta mentioned that with top players, even when their moves are predictable, they still manage to execute them effectively, leaving defenders helpless. He referred to Messi as an example, noting how defenders are aware of his next move but are unable to stop him due to his exceptional quality. Arteta implied that Saka possesses a similar trait, which sets him apart from many players his age.

The comparison to Messi is a significant compliment, and while Saka has a long way to go to reach the heights of the Argentine legend, the fact that his manager sees such potential in him speaks volumes. Saka’s development at Arsenal has been impressive, and under Arteta’s guidance, he continues to grow into a player capable of deciding games on his own.

Saka’s influence on the pitch goes beyond just his technical ability. His work rate, football intelligence, and composure in critical moments have made him indispensable for Arsenal. The young winger has consistently delivered for the Gunners, whether it’s scoring crucial goals or providing assists that make the difference in tight matches.

The comparison to Messi might be seen by some as premature, but it’s a reflection of Saka’s immense talent and the faith Arteta has in him. It’s clear that the Arsenal manager believes Saka has the potential to become one of the best in the world, and he’s not shy about expressing that belief.

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From an Arsenal perspective, this kind of praise could also serve as a message to the rest of the Premier League: Bukayo Saka is a player to be reckoned with, and he’s only going to get better. As the Gunners continue to push for success both domestically and in Europe, Saka will undoubtedly play a central role in their ambitions.

While comparing Saka to Messi may raise eyebrows, it’s hard to deny that the young Englishman has qualities that set him apart. Arteta’s comments underline the high expectations placed on Saka’s shoulders, and if his performance against Wolves is any indication, he’s more than capable of meeting them. The north Londoners have a gem in Saka, and with continued development, he could very well become the player Arteta envisions—a game-changer on the level of Messi.