Agbonlahor Backs Souness Criticism of Arsenal Star Saka

Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has backed criticism of Bukayo Saka's tendency to go to ground during matches, while questioning Arsenal's entertainment value after their 1-0 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest. Speaking to talkSPORT, Agbonlahor agreed with former Liverpool midfielder Graeme Souness, who has accused the Arsenal winger of exaggerating contact during challenges.

According to the source, Saka is the second-most-fouled player in the Premier League this season, behind England teammate Elliot Anderson, who moved to Manchester City in the summer. The criticism has renewed debate over simulation and refereeing decisions in English football.

Agbonlahor acknowledged Saka's quality but questioned whether the England international could reach the level of other highly regarded young attacking players.

"When I watch Saka, fantastic player, (but) I think he's limited and could never be an elite player like Lamine Yamal or [Michael] Olise." Agbonlahor said.

Agbonlahor also agreed with Souness's assessment of Saka's reactions to physical challenges, while emphasizing that the behavior extends beyond one player.

"But he does throw himself on the floor." Agbonlahor said.

The former Premier League striker argued that going to ground after minimal contact has become widespread across the competition. He also observed that referees appear increasingly reluctant to award fouls in such situations.

"But he's not the only one. It's the majority of Premier League players now. Any little touch, rolling around on the floor." Agbonlahor said.

His comments highlighted broader concerns about how officials distinguish genuine fouls from simulation during matches.

"I am seeing more and more referees not giving it." Agbonlahor said.

Agbonlahor reiterated his agreement with Souness's criticism of Saka's conduct on the field.

"But Saka, I agree with Graeme Souness, he does like to throw himself on the floor." Agbonlahor said.

Separately, Agbonlahor criticized Arsenal's performance against Nottingham Forest, describing the match as unentertaining and expressing doubts about the team's prospects in the Champions League.

"I was bored, I was not entertained." Agbonlahor said.

He attributed his reaction to the team's slow approach during the match and said the performance had affected his interest in watching Arsenal's subsequent games.

"It was slow… that's not entertaining football." Agbonlahor said.

Agbonlahor also questioned whether Arsenal had made sufficient progress toward winning Europe's leading club competition.

"It makes me think to myself, the next time Arsenal are on, no thank you." Agbonlahor said.

He added that Arsenal would not be his preferred choice among the Champions League matches scheduled that week.

"Out of all the games this week in the Champions League, Arsenal is not the game I will be watching. For me, they're no closer to winning the Champions League." Agbonlahor said.