David O’Leary Questions Bukayo Saka’s Arsenal Form

David O’Leary Questions Bukayo Saka’s Arsenal Form

Arsenal legend David O’Leary has questioned whether Bukayo Saka is currently performing at the level expected of one of the Premier League’s highest-paid players, delivering a blunt assessment of the winger’s recent displays.

O’Leary, who made a club-record 722 appearances for Arsenal, believes Saka has lost some of the directness and determination that made him such a dangerous attacking threat. Speaking on talkSPORT’s Sunday Edition, the former defender suggested that the England international has become too willing to go to ground when challenged by opponents.

“I think he goes down too much now. I think he’s looking for that touch to go down,” O’Leary said, questioning whether Saka is showing the same approach that characterised his earlier performances.

O’Leary questions Saka’s £300,000-a-week contract

The former Arsenal captain also questioned whether Saka is currently justifying his reported £300,000-a-week wages following his new long-term contract with the North London club.

“He’s not the player that he was, without a doubt,” O’Leary said. However, he was careful to acknowledge Saka’s quality, adding that the winger remains a top player despite his recent struggles.

Saka signed a new five-year contract in February 2026, with reports placing his weekly wages above £300,000. The agreement underlined Arsenal’s belief in the academy graduate and his importance to the club’s long-term ambitions. 

Arsenal need Saka back at his best

O’Leary’s criticism followed Arsenal’s 2–1 Premier League victory over Leeds United on October 10. Although the Gunners secured all three points, the former defender felt Saka needed to rediscover his most effective form.

He also pointed to the importance of other key players, including Declan Rice, and argued that Saka must raise his level if Arsenal are to become a more powerful team.

The criticism does not mean Saka has lost his importance to Mikel Arteta’s side. At his best, the winger offers pace, creativity, goals and the ability to unsettle defenders in one-on-one situations. Arsenal will want those qualities consistently as the season progresses.

O’Leary’s message is clear: Saka remains a talented player, but his reputation and contract bring enormous expectations. The winger now faces renewed scrutiny over whether he can recapture the form that established him among Arsenal’s most influential players.