“He is always willing to take big penalties and he is never fazed, whatever the occasion or situation in the game – he steps up in big moments. Saka is one of the main reasons Arsenal are challenging for the title and, regardless of whether they win it from here, he has just been unbelievable and he seems to just get better and better.
“He is a winger but unlike, say Anthony at Manchester United, is always involved in the game. As well as influencing games with his goals and assists, he allows his team-mates to flourish. The inverted role he has, where he comes inside, allows Ben White space out wide and their relationship is just incredible.”
Pires was a two-time league champion with Arsenal, something Saka will hope he can begin to emulate in May by lifting this year’s title.