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There is an opinion that Bukayo Saka does not perform in big games. However, recent performances against Fulham and Atlético Madrid have helped to quash this misconception.
The opinion probably comes from his penalty miss in the 2020 Euros final, whilst he also played when England came up short again in the tournament in 2024. There was also an underwhelming performance in the EFL Cup final this year.
However, Saka's recent performances are starting to prove doubters wrong. Saka scored the winning goal for Arsenal as they defeated Atlético last night to progress to the Champions League final. The Gunners' celebrations may have seemed like they had already won it. However, Saka now needs a star performance in the final against either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain to bury the misconception about him for good.
Saka also performed admirably in Arsenal's last Premier League game, scoring and assisting against Fulham. He was then taken off at half-time as a precaution. Saka has only recently returned from an Achilles tendon problem, which, according to Thierry Henry, is still troubling him.
With Manchester City dropping points against Everton on Monday, Arsenal is now five points clear of City at the top of the Premier League. However, Pep Guardiola's side does still have a game in hand.
Bukayo Saka is proving doubters wrong
The Gunners have the title in their hands and have three 'finals' against West Ham United, Burnley, and Crystal Palace before the Champions League. The Gunners may have looked like they were getting carried away after defeating Atlético, but from being runners-up in the Premier League in the last three seasons will know that nothing is certain.
Saka will need to perform for Mikel Arteta's side if they are to finally win the Premier League for the first time since the 2003/04 season. It will also help banish people's view that he does not perform when it matters for good.
The winger will only be able to do this if he remains fit. He has struggled with Achilles, hamstring, and hip problems this campaign. However, he has still managed 11 goals with eight assists in 46 matches this season.
More silverware is what Saka needs; with the Gunners, he has so far only won the FA Cup in 2020. He did not play in the final or semi-final, but did feature in all the previous rounds, scoring and assisting in a 2-1 win over AFC Bournemouth in the fourth round.
Saka has also lifted two Community Shields with Arsenal, but not many fans think of that as a major trophy. He now has the opportunity to do the double this season. Then, if he stays fit, Saka should be a key part of Thomas Tuchel's roster for the World Cup this summer.
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