OLeary Criticizes Saka After Arsenal Victory Over Leeds

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has been told he needs to improve after the club's former defender David OLeary questioned his current form following the Gunners' 2-1 Premier League win over Leeds United. OLeary said Saka is not performing at the level expected from one of Arsenal's highest-paid players.

Arsenal have won five of their opening six Premier League matches as defending champions, according to the source. Saka has scored three goals in eight appearances this season but has provided no assists after signing a new contract in February.

OLeary, an Arsenal legend, said on talkSPORT that Saka remains a quality player but believes the winger has declined from his previous level.

"I honestly don’t think he is [in top form]. I really like the guy." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

Saka has faced increased expectations after becoming Arsenal's highest-paid player, with the source reporting his salary is above £15m per year. OLeary continued by discussing changes he has noticed in the England international's approach.

"But I do think one thing, seeing him grow up and get into the team before everyone knew how good he was, I think he goes down too much now." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

OLeary said Saka previously played with a more aggressive style and believes the winger needs to respond to physical challenges more effectively.

"I think he’s looking for that touch to go down and the player I saw before that was much more positive, he was not going to let the full-back put him on the deck, or anybody else." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

The former Arsenal defender added that Saka is still an important player but questioned whether he is currently matching the standard expected after his new deal.

"He’s not the player that he was, without a doubt." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

"He’s still a top player, but is he the player that got this fantastic new contract at Arsenal to make him one of the top-paid players in the country? I don’t think so at the moment." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

OLeary later said Arsenal would become stronger if Saka returns to his previous level, while also noting the team has progressed under Mikel Arteta.

"If he does step up, Arsenal become a more powerful team" said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

OLeary was also asked about whether Saka goes down too often under contact, an issue linked to the winger's experience during his development at Arsenal.

"I’d love to give you an honest answer on that, the guy hasn’t changed, we haven’t got the arrogant side." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.

The Arsenal legend said Saka remains a target for opponents because of his attacking ability and reputation.

"That’s a good point. It looks to be that way, he sees that coming, he is a target as him on his day is a big threat." said David OLeary, Arsenal legend.