Arsenal told Bukayo Saka is ‘better than Robert Pires’

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Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere believes Bukayo Saka is better than Gunners icon Robert Pires. Saka has been key in guiding Mikel Arteta’s side on a remarkable Premier League title push, enjoying a sensational campaign. 

The 21-year-old has scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions this season. His performances are a major reason why Arsenal will play in the Champions League next term for the first time since 2016-17. 

Saka appeared to be guiding Arsenal to their first Premier League title since 2004. However, a recent run of bad form has seen the North Londoners toppled by Manchester City. 

Aliadiere believes the England starlet’s displays rank him above an Invincibles hero, though. The Frenchman says he would pick Saka over Pires – who scored 85 goals in 284 appearances for the club – and fellow Arsenal legend Freddie Ljungberg in his favourite Arsenal XI. 

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The former attacker told BoyleSport: “At such a young age, Bukayo Saka is incredible. It looks like he’s playing like a 30-year-old. The way he controls it, he never rushes and he always seems to make the right decision. As a young player normally you have a lot to prove, but the way he does everything is just amazing.

“It’s a tough one, but the way he’s playing I probably would pick Saka over Pires and Ljungberg. I thought Pires was absolutely fantastic, a good friend of mine, but what Saka has been doing this season has been incredible for his age.

“You see Saka and you think, how does he manage to always physically keep the ball? He’s not the strongest but he uses his body so well. You have all those defenders coming at him, you think he’s going to lose it but he holds onto it. I’m so impressed with him. He’s been our best player.”

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Despite Arteta being set to prioritise midfield signings this summer, Aliadiere believes the Spaniard should sign Brentford striker Ivan Toney. It is a move that could upset Gabriel Jesus, with the former Manchester City attacker reportedly preferring to play as a centre forward rather than out wide – which he could be forced to do if Toney arrives. 

“Every time I see Ivan Toney play, he impresses me. I think he would bring something that Arsenal haven’t got,” Aliadiere added. 

“He’s got a presence, he holds the ball up and he’s good in the air. He’s a player I’ve always liked and this season in particular he’s been fantastic. I’d be very happy to see him at Arsenal.”

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