Bukayo Saka’s rise from Hale End prodigy to world class winger reached new heights this season. The 23 year old recorded 15 Premier League goals and 12 assists, both personal best tallies, while adding five decisive strikes in the Champions League. Only Mohamed Salah and Cole Palmer had a hand in more league goals among wide players, underlining Saka’s evolution into a complete attacker. Key to the leap was a customised conditioning programme devised by performance chief Tom Allen. GPS data showed Saka’s top speed increased by 4 percent, but more crucial was the extra stamina that allowed him to maintain high intensity sprints deep into second halves. That endurance proved vital on 18 May when he chased down a lost cause against Newcastle, cut the ball back from the byline, and created the tap in that sealed a 3 to 1 victory keeping Arsenal ahead of Manchester City. Technical refinement also played a role. First team coach Carlos Cuesta spent pre season sessions honing Saka’s weaker right foot, and six of his league assists arrived via right sided crosses. Meanwhile, the forward’s trademark jig inside from the flank remains lethal: nine of his league goals came from shots curled into the far corner. Off the pitch Saka continued community work through his Little Chilli foundation, funding classroom refurbishments in Islington primary schools and donating 1000 winter coats to local families. He also became the youngest recipient of Arsenal’s Community Champion award. Negotiations over a new deal worth a reported 300 thousand pounds per week are advanced, yet Saka downplayed speculation after the Southampton draw. “This club is my home,” he said, beaming beneath red and white confetti. With Euro 2028 on the horizon, England boss Gareth Southgate will be delighted that his star wide man is thriving. Arsenal supporters are already dreaming of what another season of peak Saka could bring.
