Arsenal legend David O’Leary has criticised Bukayo Saka over his recent performances, questioning whether the England international is currently living up to the expectations that came with his lucrative contract extension.
O’Leary, Arsenal’s record appearance holder, expressed concern about the winger’s declining influence on the team and accused him of going to ground too easily when challenged by opponents.
Saka endured a quiet outing in Arsenal’s match against the newly promoted side, failing to score or provide an assist, although Mikel Arteta’s team secured victory through goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimarães.
The performance added to concerns about the 25-year-old’s form following the signing of a contract extension in February 2026, reportedly worth £300,000 per week, which made him one of the highest-paid players at the club.
Speaking on talkSPORT, O’Leary acknowledged Saka’s quality but argued that his current performances had fallen short of the standards expected of a player on such a contract.
“He’s not the player that he was, without a doubt,” O’Leary said, adding that although Saka remained a top player, he was not currently performing at the level that justified his new deal.
David O’Leary — former Arsenal defender and manager
The former Arsenal defender also urged the winger to rediscover his best form, contrasting his recent displays with the performances of other teammates, particularly midfielder Declan Rice, whom he praised for his contribution against Leeds.
O’Leary said Saka needed to improve as the team continued to progress, expressing uncertainty about what had caused the change in the forward’s performances.
Beyond his concerns about Saka’s attacking output, O’Leary questioned what he described as a change in the winger’s approach when facing defenders.
The former defender, who made 722 appearances for Arsenal during his 18-year spell at Highbury and won two First Division titles, said Saka appeared increasingly willing to seek contact and fall rather than continue taking on opponents.
O’Leary explained that he admired the England international but believed the player had become less direct than he was during his early years in the first team.
He recalled that the younger Saka was more determined to take on defenders and resist challenges rather than go to ground easily.
Saka has scored three goals in eight appearances across all competitions this season, as questions continue to emerge about his recent form and contribution to Arsenal’s attack.
