Arsenal: Bukayo Saka every bit on Martinelli, Guendouzi levels

Arsenal fans frequently have two names on their lips, but it’s a crying shame when Bukayo Saka isn’t included in the hype train. He’s on the same level.

Arsenal‘s youth crop took a serious shot in the arm when they added Matteo Guendouzi, and Gabriel Martinelli multiplied that effect. These two are two of the best young players in the world and of all the places they could have gone, they came to the Emirates. And now everyone can’t wait to see what happens next.

But for as much talk circulates about the two signings, Bukayo Saka often gets lost in the shuffle. Now, most responsible fans and journalists will include Saka to complete a trio. The Guendouzi, Martinelli, Saka trio. But plenty leave him out, or count him as one step behind.

I cry foul on that. Just because Saka didn’t arrive at the club to pomp and circumstance like Guendouzi and Martinelli acquired, he’s every bit their equal, and this season has proved that.

Saka hasn’t even been able to play winger as much as he would like, but don’t forget that when Alexandre Lacazette was injured, Bukayo Saka was called upon to start in the Premier League opposite Nicolas Pepe and guess what? He was up to the task.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• Mikel Arteta provides Gabriel Martinelli injury update after Everton win

He created and provided so much attacking sharpness from that left wing that it was obvious where he belonged. He belonged right where he was.

Since having to step in at leftback, he hasn’t digressed at all. Not a single step back. He stands strong as the man on the team with the highest assist total across all competitions and his delivery has improved by leaps and bounds. So too has his defense.

Saka has just as bright of a future at this club as Guendouzi and Martinelli. I’m so confident in him that I believe that, if you swap Saka in for Martinelli on the left wing, you’d be getting the exact same results. Goal threats, created chances, and a whole of of excitement. That’s just what the young man is all about.

Basically, there are two types of people right now. Those who include Saka on all the “best young talents in the world” list alongside Martinelli and Guendouzi, and those that think that Martinelli and Guendouzi are all Arsenal need, and thus leave Saka off.

Do yourself a favor and make sure you fall into the former.