Mikel Arteta is finally vindicated for a forgotten Bukayo Saka call he made in 2020

When Mikel Arteta opted to play Bukayo Saka in a central role at the weekend against Wigan, the Arsenal world was rocked. However, some of those surprised faces might have forgotten that Bukayo Saka has played centrally under Mikel Arteta before.

Back in 2020, Mikel Arteta played Bukayo Saka centrally against Brighton. Albeit a loss, Saka played well in midfield, and he even provided an assist during the game.

In truth, it's impossible to pinpoint Bukayo Saka's best position. Despite primarily operating on the right flank, he is more than capable of playing in many different positions. Mikel Arteta knows all about the Englishman's versatility, as he has often used him in unorthodox ways.

Mikel Arteta was right about Bukayo Saka all along

At the turn of the decade, it was a controversial call for Mikel Arteta to play Bukayo Saka, who was clearly a great wide-man, through the center. Many would have put this down to Arteta's relative inexperience at the time.

However, fast forward six years, Mikel Arteta was left with little choice but to play Saka through the middle against Wigan. It was a low-stakes game, but Saka yet again played brilliantly though the center of the park.

With unforeseen injuries to Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz, Arteta adapted in a way that he would have otherwise chosen not to, and Arsenal benefitted.

Turns out, Saka hasn't lost his versatility. He's made the right-wing his own in recent years, but let's not forget he's played in a multitude of different positions. He's operated on either wing, as a full-back (yes, a full-back) and as a central midfielder.

It sure sounds like Mikel Arteta could change Bukayo Saka's position

Mikel Arteta is unapologetic in adapting Bukayo Saka's position. He's done it many times before, and according to James Benge, he is open to doing it again.

Journalist Benge said "Arteta, not entirely prompted, said he'd consider playing Saka centrally again in the future."

Arsenal turns its attention to Wolves this weekend, before a tough double header of London derbies against Tottenham and Chelsea, respectively. If there is ever a time for Arteta to build Saka's confidence through the middle (not that he needs it), it's against the struggling Wolves side.

Every game is a must-win game for Arsenal now. It was before, but it's even more the case now with Man City breathing down their necks. You could argue now isn't the time for experimentation, but this isn't an experiment anymore. Saka has proven in the past, and recently, that he can help out through the middle if required. He is required there now more than ever.