The Digest:
Mikel Arteta has pointed to two key factors behind Bukayo Saka's recent dip in form for Arsenal: injuries disrupting attacking partnerships and a relentless schedule. Saka was substituted after an hour against Bayer Leverkusen following a poor performance where he regularly gave the ball away, in contrast to replacement Noni Madueke who won the decisive penalty. Arteta explained: "We have changed that [attacking] unit a lot, much more than in recent years. The amount of games and minutes he's played now, it's a bit more already than the whole of last season. We also just have to understand the demands we're putting on players." Saka's goal against Wolves last month ended a 15-game drought, but he has only scored two goals and assisted three in his last 21 appearances across all competitions. Arteta insisted: "We fully trust him and love him. What he's doing for us, for this club, is just incredible at his age."
Key Points
- Arteta cites disrupted attacking partnerships and relentless schedule for Saka's form dip.
- Saka replaced after poor Leverkusen display; Madueke impressed.
- Goal against Wolves ended 15-game drought.
- Only 2 goals, 3 assists in last 21 appearances.
- Arteta insists club fully trusts and loves Saka.
Sources: The Standard Interview
