3 Arsenal players that’ll be most affected by Gabriel Jesus’ arrival

2. Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka has come on leaps and bounds since his first appearance as a right-winger. He has quickly become one of the most dangerous wingers in the league. Equally adept at cutting inside and driving down the byline, he always has the beating of his marker. Such is the maturity and intelligence with which he plays that his age is sometimes forgotten.

Saka is only 20 years old. While his ability is unquestionable, his consistency can be improved. There were a few games last season where he flagged, seemingly devoid of his usual and expected explosiveness. This can largely be attributed to his age and stage of development.

20-year-olds are not finished products. His body is continuously adapting to the rigours of regular, first-team football. In addition to his youth, Saka gets kicked and fouled at every possible chance by the opposition. And with only a lacklustre Nicolas Pepe on the bench, he is forced to play week in, week out. Jesus will change that.

The Man City man has been brought in to play striker. Arteta knows exactly how to use his strengths to maximise a developing attack. At his former club, however, Jesus was often deployed on the right due to Pep’s endless tinkering. With Eddie Nketiah signing a new contract, Jesus could be utilised as a rotation option to give Saka some much-needed rest throughout the season.

With a younger and smaller squad, players must be kept fit and firing for as many games as possible. Using the five subs rule to its full effect will be key in allowing Saka to do what he does best and terrorise defences all over England.

Continued on the next slide…