Bukayo Saka’s influence goes beyond the numbers, says Thierry Henry — his all-round work and renewed killer mentality could make Arsenal more reliable in big games. Betting angle: punters may favour Arsenal in title markets and consider backing Saka for goal involvements or Anytime Scorer lines, given his constant threat down the right and increased focus this season.
Thierry Henry: "Bukayo Saka's influence is second to none"
Thierry Henry insists statistics fail to capture Bukayo Saka’s true value to Arsenal, arguing the winger’s industry, defensive work and attacking threat make him indispensable despite lower goals tally this season.
Saka’s stats versus on-field impact
Saka has averaged more than 22 Premier League goal contributions per season across the last four campaigns but has recorded only eight so far this term. Henry argues those numbers miss the full picture: the relentless up-and-down runs, defensive support for the right back, counter-attacks and willingness to receive the ball in all situations.
“You have to watch the game”
Henry said: “Sometimes, stats don’t tell you how a player plays. If you only look at the stats you miss the way a player influences the rhythm and balance of a team. The amount of time that people kick him, he gets back up and he goes again, and he wants the ball in every situation.”
A changed mentality and leadership
Henry believes Saka has developed a sharper, more ruthless edge this season. “His eyes have changed. You know when someone has that look, it’s over,” he said, suggesting the 24-year-old is now more clearly focused on ending Arsenal’s long wait for a league title.
Mentor, confidant and brutal honesty
Henry has had a close relationship with Saka, describing him in personal terms and offering honest guidance. “Whenever I can speak to a player, I think that should be your duty,” he said. “Honesty is key, so whenever I speak to a player I am brutally honest.”
Implications for Arsenal’s title bid
If Henry is right about Saka’s intangible impact, Arsenal’s overall performance may be stronger than raw attacking numbers suggest, reinforcing their credentials in the title race and big matches. That influence could shape selection decisions and tactical planning as the season progresses.
THIERRY HENRY has claimed that the stats don't show just how important Bukayo Saka is to Arsenal. The Gunners legend reckons Saka's influence is "second to none" and that the winger's "eyes have changed" this season. Saka has averaged over 22 Premier League goal contributions a season over the last four campaigns, but has managed...
The Sun
