Former Premier League midfielder Jamie Redknapp has advised Mikel Arteta to consider alternative options on the right wing for Arsenal instead of relying on Bukayo Saka, following the club’s defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final. According to the former England international, the current performances of the Arsenal winger have not been at the level expected this season, and tactical changes may be necessary to improve the team’s attacking strength on the right flank. Speaking during an analysis on Sky Sports, Redknapp explained that Saka has not consistently delivered the creativity and impact that Arsenal depend on in crucial matches throughout the campaign. He suggested that the coaching staff should begin to explore other options available in the squad, including the use of Noni Madueke and Max Dowman in the right-wing role, as both players have the ability to provide pace, direct attacking movement, and fresh energy in that position. Redknapp noted that Arsenal usually depend on their key players to step forward during important fixtures, but in recent matches, the level of influence from Saka has not been as strong as expected from one of the club’s main attacking threats. He added that the winger has previously been a decisive player for Arsenal in several big games, showing creativity, skill, and goal-scoring ability, but recently those qualities have not been visible at the same level, which could justify giving other players an opportunity. The pundit also pointed out that competition for the right-wing position is increasing within the squad, with Max Dowman pushing for more playing time while Noni Madueke is also capable of operating effectively on the right side of the attack. Redknapp further recommended that Arteta could experiment with Saka in a different attacking role in upcoming matches, including using him on the left wing at certain moments, especially if opponents continue to limit his effectiveness on the right. He concluded by stating that a positional change might help the England international regain confidence and form, as recent games have shown that he is finding it more difficult to overcome defenders when playing in his usual position.
Former Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, has shared his admiration for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, stating that the Spanish tactician will forever be grateful for securing such a brilliant player. According to Ferdinand, Eze’s addition to the Arsenal squad has not only improved the team’s creativity in the midfield but also strengthened their attacking options — giving the Gunners a new level of dynamism and flair. The football pundit noted that Arteta will be “thanking God” for successfully completing the deal, describing Eze as one of the most technically gifted English midfielders in recent years. Ferdinand emphasized that Eze’s ability to control the tempo of the game, take on defenders with confidence, and create scoring opportunities makes him a perfect fit for Arteta’s tactical setup at the Emirates Stadium. “Arteta will be thanking God for signing Eze; the guy is a magician on the ball,” Ferdinand reportedly said during his football analysis show. The signing has already started paying off for Arsenal, as Eze’s presence in the squad has boosted morale and injected fresh creativity into their attacking play. Fans have also praised the move, calling it one of the smartest transfers made by the club in recent seasons. With Eze adapting quickly to Arsenal’s high-tempo style and linking up seamlessly with key players like Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice, many analysts believe the Gunners now have a stronger chance at challenging for the Premier League title this season. Arteta himself has expressed satisfaction with his team’s progress and highlighted the importance of players like Eze who can create something out of nothing, especially in tough games. The manager continues to focus on building a squad capable of competing with Manchester City and Liverpool for the top spot. As Arsenal fans celebrate the success of this transfer, Ferdinand’s remarks have only reinforced what many already believe — that Eberechi Eze’s arrival was a divine blessing for Mikel Arteta’s team.
