Arsenal: 3 internal replacements for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

2. Bukayo Saka

Predominantly, Aubameyang has been used as a left-winger under Arteta. The role is an adapted one, with Aubameyang afforded the freedom to drive in behind the opposing defence, playing on the shoulder like a centre-forward, or allowed to drift into more central areas. However, it is still a left-wing position.

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Perhaps, then, Arteta might look to use a more natural left-winger in Aubameyang’s absence. And who better than teenage sensation Bukayo Saka, who has flourished in an advanced left-back position which essentially allows him to play like a left-winger?

Saka leads all teenagers in the Premier League in assists. He has more assists than any Arsenal player on the season. He creates one chance per 90 minutes, plays 2.31 passes into the final third per 90, one pass into the penalty area per 90 and 3.62 crosses per 90. He has also shown an eye for goal with three on the season, including a sensational strike against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League.

Saka could flourish in a more offensive position in the team. He is an excellent dribbler, possesses explosive acceleration, and brings a surprising deftness of touch and craft of distribution. These qualities could further be unlocked by pushing him into the front three and with Kieran Tierney returning at left-back Saka, then, despite only being a teenager, might provide a more natural replacement for Aubameyang.