Rio Ferdinand has pinpointed Bukayo Saka's resurgence as a major positive for Arsenal, declaring the forward looked 'unplayable' during the Gunners' 1-1 Premier League draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Saka's Pivotal Role in Stamford Bridge Stalemate
The top-of-the-table clash on December 1, 2025, saw league leaders Arsenal extend their unbeaten run to ten games, though they were forced to come from behind. Chelsea, despite being reduced to ten men after Moises Caicedo's first-half sending off, took the lead through Trevoh Chalobah's header just after the break.
Arsenal's equaliser arrived courtesy of midfielder Mikel Merino, who powered home a header from close range. The goal was created by Bukayo Saka, who turned Marc Cucurella inside out before delivering a perfect cross. Notably, this was Saka's first Premier League assist in exactly a year, adding to his three goals so far this campaign.
Ferdinand's Glowing Assessment of Saka's Qualities
Analysing the match on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former Manchester United and England defender was effusive in his praise for the 24-year-old. "When he's on it he looks unplayable," Ferdinand stated.
He drew comparisons with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, highlighting Saka's surprising strength. "He's small in frame and size when you look at him, but do you ever see him get pushed off the ball?" Ferdinand asked. "You don't really see people take the ball off him or put him on his arse. He's a strong little guy."
Ferdinand also referenced former England defender Joleon Lescott's analysis, noting Saka's exceptional decision-making. "He makes the right decision at the right time 99 per cent of the time... he passes it when he should, he shoots when he should, he creates a one-vs-one when he should," he explained.
Why Saka's Form is Crucial for Arsenal's Title Hopes
Ferdinand, a six-time Premier League winner, believes Saka's return to form could be the catalyst for a successful second half of the season for Mikel Arteta's side. "He's very efficient and very effective and it's a very nice assist," he said. "He's one of those players that if he starts coming into form at the right time of the season, anything could be possible with this Arsenal team. I think he's that important because he's that impactful."
The pundit argued that Arsenal would have been content with a point before the game, even considering Chelsea's red card. "A game of that magnitude, top-of-the-table clash, Arsenal would have taken a draw before the game," Ferdinand asserted, suggesting the result does little to halt their momentum.
He concluded by stating that Arsenal's recent performances, including in Europe against Bayern Munich, have made them a feared opponent. "There are teams going up against Arsenal that are more fearful than anything about getting rolled over," Ferdinand claimed, indicating a significant shift in perception around the club's capabilities.
Arsenal will now prepare to host Brentford on Wednesday night, with Saka hoping to build on his influential display at the Bridge.
