Arsenal Vs Eintracht Frankfurt: 5 things we learned – Hello, Bukayo Saka

1. Welcome to the first team, Bukayo Saka

If you wanted a story of the match, you need not look far. Bukayo Saka, while not named my personal Man of the Match, was the star of the show. And for perfectly good reason. He was excellent, producing several moments of brilliance that inspired Arsenal to this hard-earned away victory.

Obviously, there is the goal, which was phenomenal. Most people groaned when he did not slip Nicolas Pepe in, instead choosing to control the ball and shift inside. But he backed up his confidence in his ability with a terrific, curling finish into the far corner. Then there were the two assists, the first of which showcased his direct dribbling as he skipped through a Frankfurt defender and teed up Joe Willock, the second displaying terrific work ethic and pressing to win the ball back and then thread a quick pass into Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s grateful path.

More than just the individual moments, though, Saka attempted eight dribbles, the most of any player on the pitch, created five chances in total, and had two shots, both of which were on target. There are still problems with his game. He is young and inexperienced, and it shows at times, especially when trying to execute the nuances of playing out wide (contrast his overall performance to Aubameyang’s), but the talent is undeniable.

This was Saka’s first start of the season. He could not have done more to prove that he is ready for a greater opportunity. This will not be the last we see of the slaloming 18-year-old.