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Arsenal legend David O’Leary slams Bukayo Saka

By on October 13, 2026

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Arsenal legend David O’Leary has slammed his old club’s talisman, Bukayo Saka.

After starting his youth career at Watford, the Englishman joined the Hale End academy at the age of seven. Having risen through their youth system, the forward made his first-team debut back in 2018.

Saka has helped his side win a Premier League title and a few domestic cup competitions under Mikel Arteta. Moreover, he guided the Gunners to reach the Champions League final last term before losing to eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.

After establishing himself as one of the best players for his boyhood club, Saka recently signed a bumper long-term contract. He has netted three goals in six Premier League appearances this season.

Now, speaking on talkSPORT, O’Leary says that although Arsenal have given Saka a new lucrative contract, he doesn’t deserve it as he hasn’t been at his best in recent times.

The 25-year-old is a top-class player but hasn’t been able to replicate his excellent old form. He has even started showing play acts.

O’Leary said:

“I honestly don’t think he is [in top form]. I really like the guy. He’s not the player that he was, without a doubt. He’s still a top player, but is he the player that got this fantastic new contract at Arsenal to make him one of the top-paid players in the country? I don’t think so at the moment.”

Arsenal legend slams Saka

Saka has established himself as an undisputed starter on the left flank at the Emirates Stadium in recent years. But he previously played on the opposite side.

The Englishman, valued at around £93m by Transfermarkt, even featured in the left-back and LWB positions. He is quick, strong, can dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, and can finish off his chances.

Moreover, he is efficient at taking set-pieces and penalties. Saka even works hard without possession. The forward is still very young, although he already has vast experience of top-level football, and is currently at the prime stage of his career.

Meanwhile, apart from Saka, Arteta currently has Noni Madueke as the right-wing option, while Max Dowman is emerging and is considered one of the best young talents in the world.