Ola Aina: Bukayo Saka is the Premier League’s stand-out player | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has labelled Bukayo Saka as the best player in the Premier League, citing the Arsenal winger’s consistency and game-changing performances.

Speaking on the Filthy Fellas podcast, Aina, who faced Saka twice last season, reflected on the challenge of trying to stop the 23-year-old. “Every game… he just does it,” Aina said. “Let’s be honest here, bro, Saka is scoring, he’s doing a mad ting.”

Aina’s encounters with Saka left a lasting impression. Tasked with marking the Arsenal star while playing out of position at left-back, the former Chelsea academy player saw Saka score in both matches, including a stunning solo effort in the season opener. Despite Aina’s best efforts, Saka proved impossible to contain.

Saka’s influence on Arsenal this season has been immense. With five goals and ten assists in the Premier League and standout performances in the Champions League, he has been instrumental in the Gunners’ success. His ability to deliver consistently has made him a vital figure in Mikel Arteta’s setup and a nightmare for defenders across the league.

Aina’s praise places Saka above some of the Premier League’s biggest names. “Rodri is sick, he makes City tick… but Saka just does it every game,” Aina explained. While also acknowledging the brilliance of players like Mohamed Salah, Aina insisted Saka’s consistency and impact set him apart.

Saka’s absence due to a hamstring injury suffered during Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace has left a significant gap in the team. Arteta has described the injury as “not looking good,” leaving Arsenal’s attack reliant on other forwards like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in the coming weeks.

For Aina, Saka’s ability to perform at such a high level every week is what elevates him above the rest. “That’s one player when I came off the pitch at the Emirates… I had to respect it,” he said.

As Saka works on his recovery, Aina’s words highlight the respect the Arsenal winger commands across the league. Whether through dazzling runs, decisive goals, or unmatched consistency, Saka has earned his place among the Premier League’s elite — and, in Aina’s eyes, right at the very top.