Bukayo Saka is 100 percent a world class player, says Mikael Silvestre

Arsenal continued their title challenge, beating Wolves on Saturday and ending a second successive week on top of the Premier League table. Their title charge was also aided by Manchester City dropping points in a thrilling draw with Tottenham.

We talked to former Gunner, Mikael Silvestre who spoke about why Bukayo Saka is “world class”, the improvement shown by Takehiro Tomiyasu, Kai Havertz getting on the scoresheet and Gabriel Magalhaes’ importance.

In this article:

• Saka is 100 percent world class
• Declan Rice is worth the money Arsenal paid
• Havertz is slowly getting used to playing at Arsenal
• Safer gambling

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Bukayo Saka is 100 percent a world class player

Hale End product Bukayo Saka has become one of Arsenal’s most productive players. The English winger recently became the first player in Champions League history to score and assist in each of his first three home games. He also has 11 goals contributions (five goals and six assists) in 13 Premier League appearances this season.

Still, the English winger’s credentials have been questioned as pundits and fans alike have been hesitant to brand him as a world class player. Silvestre, on the other hand believes that Saka is “100 percent” a world class player.

“100 percent Saka is a top player. He’s world class.”

“I think he’s proven that every single time he’s on the pitch, he can create something out of nothing.”

The Frenchman adds that Saka gives what is needed from a winger and is a delight to watch – attributes that have made him a top player for England and Arsenal.

“Extremely dangerous for a winger. That’s what you want, taking on players, scoring and assisting.”

“He’s a delightful player to watch. He’s got speed, agility and he’s playing with a lot of confidence. And he’s a top player for Arsenal and England.”

Declan Rice was expensive but he’s worth the money – it was a secured bet

Another Arsenal star who’s been giving solid performances is record signing Declan Rice. The former West Ham midfielder has seamlessly fitted in Mikel Arteta’s side and has been hailed for the defensive strength he brings to the side.

Silvestre admits that Rice went for big money but everyone knew what they were getting with him. He attributes the big transfer fee to Rice being English but believes he has been worth the cash that Arsenal splashed on him.

“I would say that the transfer fee was huge. Obviously it’s a big number but everybody knew what they were going to get for that amount.”

“When you buy an English international player you always pay a premium. Even if it was 75-80, it was still a big price but you get a ready player. Someone that is going to fit into your team and you know what you’re going to get. It’s an 8/9 or 10/10 every game.”

“So it’s a secured bet, so to speak.”

“He’s been proving his worth and it is going to be the same for many years to come because he’s extremely professional and dedicated to his work.”

“So it’s a great asset for Arsenal and when you look back at it, he’s definitely been worth it. Even after five months, you’re like it was a no-brainer.”

Kai Havertz is getting used to playing with his teammates

The decision to bring in Kai Havertz was one filled with questions. The German midfielder didn’t have the greatest start to his Arsenal career but he’s shown signs of improvement.

Havertz scored an all-important winner against Brentford and opened the scoring against Lens in the Champions League. Silvestre says that some players take time to get used to the rhythm of new teammates, and Havertz is finally getting up to speed in that regard.

“Havertz took time to adjust, to find his place with his teammates. You know he’s a good player and he’s joining a good team but it takes time, sometimes, to get your place, to learn about your teammates, their tendencies and just to click.”

“He’s a player that needs others to click, because of his style of play. His combinations, his link-up play, maybe took a bit more time than usual but now he’s in a good momentum.”

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SAFER GAMBLING

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