Bukayo Saka has emerged as one of England’s brightest footballing talents, consistently earning a spot in both the Arsenal lineup and the national team over the years.
Often compared to fellow wingers like Phil Foden and Rodrygo, Saka has faced a fair share of praise and criticism.
Recently, however, the debate surrounding him took an unexpected turn, thanks to a controversial comment from Arsenal legend Robert Pires.
During a recent appearance on Germany based betting site Wettbasis, Pires has stirred the pot by claiming that Jeremy Doku surpasses Saka in terms of technical prowess, dribbling skills, and creativity.
Bukayo still lacks a certain level of consistency.
In my opinion, Jeremy Doku is a bit better. He has better dribbling skills and is more imaginative.
What’s more, Pires questioned Saka’s consistency—a trait that many fans consider one of his greatest strengths.
Saka’s consistency is not just a matter of opinion; it’s backed by statistics. Last season, he accumulated an impressive 34 goals and assists combined, a clear indication of his reliable performance throughout the campaign. This steady output contrasts sharply with Pires’ critique.
Safe to say, fans, even rivals, aren’t in favour of Pires’ remarks –
Robert Pires claiming Saka “lacks consistency” and in the same breath saying JEREMY DOKU is better is maybe the worst take an ex player has ever come out with and that is saying something
That Pires comment is so hilariously bad like he could have used pretty much any other reasoning than “consistency” and people might have heard him out but he chose one of Saka’s most obviously elite traits
Is Robert Pires getting the same level of roasted as Ian Wright did?
He deserves it more because I think he’s had a worse opinion saying Doku > Saka vs saying Saka moving to left back could help fix a broken squad put together by Southgate
No disrespect to Doku and Pires but Football is not just about running and shaking like you have epilepsy. You can glide and deliver like Saka while being strong on the ball.
Obviously Saka is better so I won't even touch that one, obviously Doku is a better dribbler so again no need to discuss, but "more imaginative" got me thinking. I honestly think Doku is one of the least imaginative good players I could think of https://t.co/fgyL0dgG7J
A closer look at their statistics reveals further contrasts. Saka averages 2.6 key passes per game, a notable advantage over Doku’s 1.6.
While Doku excels in dribbling—completing 3 dribbles per game compared to Saka’s 1.4—Saka’s defensive contributions stand out as well.
His work rate, commitment to tracking back, and interception rates are all superior to those of the Manchester City player.
Even on the international stage, Bukayo Saka has continued to shine. He’s been a prolific scorer, trailing only Harry Kane among current English players in terms of goals.
Given these facts, it’s no surprise that many in the football world are perplexed by Pires’ comments.
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