Robert Pires backtracks on controversial Bukayo Saka claim

Robert Pires has retracted his statements that Bukayo Saka is inconsistent and that Jeremey Doku of Manchester City is superior to the legendary Arsenal player.

Saka, who turned 23 this month, has already played in 230 Arsenal games and earned 42 caps for his country.

The winger had his most productive season to date last year, surpassing his previous record of 15 goals in the campaign with 20 goals in total.

But while talking about the winger’s growth last week, Gunners icon Pires seemed to expect more from him and, rather shockingly, mentioned Doku as a more capable player.

‘Saka still lacks a certain level of consistency and experience, especially in the big games,” Pires told Wettbasis.

‘Perhaps this season, especially in the Champions League, he will show a more convincing face than last season when it counts.

‘For example, in my opinion Jeremy Doku from Manchester City is a bit better because he is technically stronger, has better dribbling skills and is more imaginative.’

After making those comments the Frenchman changed his tune and backtracked on them.

Pires wrote on Instagram on Sunday: ‘I want to clarify that I think @bukayosaka87 is an amazing player and I have huge respect for him.

‘A while ago I was asked to compare him to another player …. I said the other player had better skills in some areas… this does not mean the other player is better than @bukayosaka87 … I genuinely think @bukayosaka87 is better and a fantastic number 7!’

Saka was taken off late in the 1-0 win over Tottenham on Sunday, with Mikel Arteta confirming that it was an injury, although he could not confirm what.

‘I don’t know. I made two changes with the front players and suddenly he’s down,’ said the Spaniard after the match. ‘I looked at the bench and the options that we had and we had to adapt. I don’t know exactly what it is but he could not continue.’

Subscribe To ANE Talk Trends On Youtube

Subscribe To All Naija Entertainment On Youtube