Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Fulham on Sunday was yet another showcase for Bukayo Saka, who delivered a goal and an assist to keep the Gunners firmly in the Premier League title race. The 22-year-old winger opened the scoring with a clinical finish in the 21st minute, then set up Gabriel Martinelli for the winner late in the second half. It was a performance that prompted Dutch football analysts Süleyman Öztürk and Bas van den Hoven to ask a question that has lingered around the England international for some time: why is he so rarely mentioned among the best players in the world?
The debate, which aired on Voetbal International's "Rondje Buitenland" segment, came as Arsenal moved within two points of league leaders Liverpool. Saka has been pivotal throughout the season, contributing 16 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. Yet, in conversations about global superstars—names like Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham—Saka often remains on the fringes.
Part of the reason may be the company he keeps. Arsenal's attack is a collective effort, with Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and captain Martin Ødegaard sharing the creative burden. Saka's numbers are impressive, but he doesn't dominate headlines the way some of his peers do. Against Fulham, however, he was the decisive figure, turning the tide after a scrappy first half in which the hosts had threatened to equalize.
Öztürk and van den Hoven pointed out that Saka's consistency is remarkable. Since breaking into the first team, he has rarely gone through prolonged slumps. This season, he has been Arsenal's most reliable attacker, especially in big moments. His goal against Fulham came from a clever cut inside onto his left foot, a move that has become his trademark—but one that defenders still struggle to stop.
The assist was equally telling: a perfectly weighted cross from the right wing that Martinelli met with a diving header. It highlighted Saka's vision and technical precision, qualities that often go underappreciated in a league that emphasizes pace and power. The win kept Arsenal in the hunt for their first league title since 2004, and Saka's contribution was central to that narrative.
Yet, the question remains: does Saka belong in the conversation with the absolute best? His statistics place him among the elite—he ranks in the top five for goals and assists among Premier League wide players since his debut. His work rate and tactical discipline have also earned praise from manager Mikel Arteta, who often describes him as the team's engine.
Perhaps the reason for the oversight is that Saka's game is not flashy. He doesn't rely on spectacular dribbles or long-range screamers. Instead, he is efficient, intelligent, and reliable. That reliability, however, might be undervalued in a world that celebrates viral moments.
The title race implications are significant. With Manchester City and Liverpool also in contention, every point matters. Arsenal's ability to grind out results against lower-table sides like Fulham often separates champions from contenders. Saka's form will be crucial in the coming weeks, especially in matches against direct rivals.
As the season progresses, the debate around Saka's status is likely to intensify. If Arsenal were to win the league, his contributions would be impossible to ignore. But even now, the numbers and the performances make a strong case for his inclusion among the world's best. The question posed by the Dutch pundits is one that more observers should be asking.
Based on reporting from Voetbal International.
