Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs suggests that Arsenal’s 22-year-old defender-turned-striker should be deployed as a number 9, surpassing the goal-scoring prowess of Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, and even Trossard.
Facing a goal-scoring challenge with only five goals in their last five games, Arsenal has been considering recruiting a new striker during the January transfer window.
However, Leroy Rosenior, presenting an alternative on Premier League Productions, proposes playing Bukayo Saka up front, emphasizing his capability for the role.
Ryan Giggs shares his perspective on resolving Arsenal’s striker dilemma by advocating for Saka’s deployment as a striker.
Giggs suggests trying Saka in the forward position, highlighting his versatility having played left-back, on the right, and left.
Giggs notes that since Jesus and Nketiah may not be up to par, experimenting with Saka in the striker role could be a viable solution, drawing parallels to Liverpool’s use of Salah in various attacking positions.
However, some express reservations about this proposal, asserting that Saka may not possess the essential qualities to be an effective striker.
Concerns include his lack of physicality and a tendency not to make runs behind the defense.
While acknowledging Saka’s brilliance as a player, the argument is made that his strengths lie in operating wide, beating defenders, delivering crosses, or taking potent shots into the back post.
The sentiment is that Saka, though undoubtedly talented, is not the ideal fit for the striker position.
The discussion also touches upon Saka’s remarkable development as a left-back, highlighting the impressive journey that now has him being considered as a potential striker option.
Despite acknowledging Saka’s versatility, there is a consensus that he should be played in his optimal position, which is on the right wing.