Ferdinand and Crouch Weigh In: How ‘World-Class’ Saka Stacks Up Against Salah – A Game Changer?

Bukayo Saka is making waves in football, and TNT Sports expert Rio Ferdinand has dubbed him a “world-class” player. Ferdinand believes the Arsenal star is only second to Mohamed Salah when it comes to the best right-wingers globally.

As we gear up for the North London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, Ferdinand expressed his strong belief in Saka’s talent. “I think he is now,” Ferdinand said, confirming Saka’s status among top players. He pointed out that Saka would fit into many of the best teams worldwide, even mentioning Real Madrid.

Then Ferdinand added, “If we’re talking about the best right wingers in the world, Salah is the best. Saka’s got to be the next one.” With Rodrygo injured, Saka stands out even more in the discussion.

At just 23 years old, Saka has become a key player for both Arsenal and the England national team. This season (2024/25), he’s already accumulated five goals and 10 assists in just 16 Premier League matches. His contributions haven’t gone unnoticed; he played a crucial role in helping England reach the finals of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, as well as the quarter-finals in the 2022 World Cup, scoring 12 goals in 43 appearances.

Last season, Saka had his most prolific year yet, netting 16 goals as Arsenal finished a close second to Manchester City in the league.

Peter Crouch, also a TNT Sports analyst, agrees with Ferdinand’s assessment. He emphasized how Saka changes the game for Arsenal. “It’s a massive, noticeable difference when he’s not playing,” Crouch said. He firmly believes Saka impacts the game at every level.

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