Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp has identified a specific tactical issue at Arsenal, suggesting star winger Bukayo Saka is inadvertently creating a 'major problem' for striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Redknapp's Tactical Analysis After Chelsea Win
The comments followed Arsenal's 3-2 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The win, secured by goals from Gyokeres, Ben White, and Martin Zubimendi, puts Mikel Arteta's Premier League leaders in a strong position to reach the final.
Redknapp, however, focused on the dynamic between the Gunners' two attackers. He argued that the naturally left-footed Saka, who plays on the right wing, often prefers to cut inside onto his stronger foot rather than deliver early crosses. This, according to the former Liverpool midfielder, is hampering Gyokeres, who thrived on service from out-and-out wingers at his former club Sporting CP.
'A lot of the time, the crosses he would've been getting predominantly would've been from a right-footed right wing-back and a left-footed left wing-back,' Redknapp explained on Sky Sports. 'When he plays for Arsenal, the major problem is Bukayo Saka plays on the right and he's left-footed. So, when Bukayo gets into that position, instead of firing it across the face of goal, he wants to chop back. That's where the frustration comes from.'
A Glimpse of Frustration at Stamford Bridge
This frustration was visibly evident during the match against Chelsea. Shortly before Ben White's shot was parried into Gyokeres' path for Arsenal's second goal, the Swedish striker was seen raising his arms in disappointment when Saka opted not to play a cross into the box.
The £64 million summer signing has found goals hard to come by in recent months, with his strike against Chelsea being only his second since November 1. This is a stark contrast to his prolific form in Portugal, putting his adaptation under the microscope.
Arsenal's Mixed Feelings After First-Leg Advantage
Despite taking a one-goal lead into the second leg, Redknapp believes Arsenal will be 'kicking themselves' that they did not kill the tie off at Stamford Bridge. He suggested that late changes and a conceded goal gave Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior hope.
'It was a game Arsenal could've been really comfortable in,' Redknapp added. 'I just felt that goal that Chelsea got right at the end has put a nice complexion on things from Liam Rosenior’s point of view, but Arsenal will be kicking themselves... this game could’ve been dead and buried.'
Both teams now return to Premier League duty, with Arsenal travelling to face Nottingham Forest and Chelsea hosting west London rivals Brentford, before the decisive Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.
