Rio Ferdinand believes Bukayo Saka is NOT ‘World-Class’

In the wake of Arsenal’s spectacular 6-0 victory over West Ham last weekend, Rio Ferdinand has stirred the football world by asserting that despite Bukayo Saka’s exceptional performance, the youngster is yet to reach ‘world-class’ status.

Saka converted from the spot in the first half against the Hammers and successfully scored his second in the 63rd minute of the match, taking his tally for goals this season to 13 in all competitions.

The former Manchester United defender debunked the ‘world-class’ tag for Saka, insisting that the England international has more to prove, especially in the Champions League.

Arsenal are currently in pursuit to challenge Liverpool and Manchester City for the Premier League title and Saka has been one of the architects of the remarkable rise of the Gunners under manager Mikel Arteta.

The 22-year-old winger became the youngest player in 40 years to reach 50 goals for Arsenal and has already made 100 goal contributions for the North London club.   

Speaking on Vibe with Five, as reported by Daily Mail, Ferdinand said:

"Not yet. Listen. I think Saka's been unreal. I actually think he needs a bit of a rest, so many games for a young kid."

"But I think, it's almost like what is world-class? He hasn't done it in the Champions League, has he?"

"I'm talking in the nitty-gritty stages. Saka's top, don't get me wrong. He's not world-class yet."

The 45-year-old emphasized on Saka’s need to prove himself on the European stage, despite the incredible statistics in the domestic league.

Saka will play a vital role for Arsenal in the season ahead and he will certainly be one of the aces for manager Mikel Arteta as he aims to end a two-decade-long wait for Premier League glory at the Emirates Stadium.

Registering four back-to-back wins, the Gunners are at present in third place in the league, with leaders Liverpool just two points ahead. However, City still have a game-in-hand and they are level on points with the North London outfit at 52 points.

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