Due to an injury, Bukayo Saka was unable to play in Arsenal’s season finale.
Bukayo Saka was absent as Arsenal beat Everton. (Image: Getty)
If Arsenal doesn’t win the Premier League title the following season, they may have to fight to retain Bukayo Saka in the long run. The England forward was obviously in tears at the final whistle after the Gunners were reduced to second place in the table, even though he had not been deemed fit to play Everton at the Emirates on Sunday.
In order to have any chance of ending their 20-year wait for a top flight title, Mikel Arteta’s team knew going into the match against Everton that a victory would be sufficient, and the hosts delivered. After falling behind to a deflected free-kick by Idrissa Gueye, Takehiro Tomiyasu tied the score before halftime, and Kai Havertz scored a late goal to complete the victory with a 2-1 victory.
But it all turned out to be inconsequential, as Pep Guardiola and company won the Premier League for the fourth time in a row with Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over West Ham at home. Saka was seen on the pitch at the final whistle, struggling to control his hurt, demonstrating the disappointment that was felt in North London.
With 20 goals and numerous assists in all competitions this season, the 22-year-old has once again been essential to the Gunners. But with their star forward undoubtedly on the radar of major European clubs, Arteta will only be under more pressure to win major trophies in light of the obvious pain on his face.
Mikel Arteta addressed fans after his side missed out on the Premier League title. (Image: Getty)
Speaking to supporters on the field after the game, Arteta was especially eager to assure them that better things would arrive in 2024–2025. “You began to believe, and that’s why everything is happening,” he said.
“You became more understanding of our efforts and more patient. The players and the staff deserve all the credit. Be not content. We’re going to get much more than that, which is what we want.”
In actuality, though, both Arteta and the supporters of Arsenal have been left to mull over a home loss to Aston Villa last month that turned out to be crucial in the race for the championship. However, after spending £200 million last summer in an attempt to end City’s dominance, the Spanish manager will also be under pressure.
Saka is a surefire pick to play for England at Euro 2024 this summer, having a contract with Arsenal that runs until 2027. Additionally, he has already been tangentially connected to teams like PSG, who are rumored to be prepared to make a sizable offer for the forward.
However, his Sunday afternoon post-match reaction also highlighted how important the club was to him. Saka, who has only missed three league games this season, was also observed acknowledging supporters as they sang his name.
