Saka and Foden, standout talents for England, have sparked a debate this season regarding their comparative excellence and whether either has reached the esteemed status of being considered ‘world-class.’
The pair have transitioned from young talents, to genuine stars, and both individuals have become pivotal to their respective clubs.
While enjoying the excellence of these two magnificent young superstars and envisioning the potential heights they could reach given their ages of 22 (Saka) and 23 (Foden), it becomes a tough task to try not to compare them.
Bukayo Saka vs Phil Foden
Foden has demonstrated his versatility by playing in a midfield role this season, as well as playing out on the right wing. He has emerged as a crucial player for Manchester City, being the go-to man when they require a goal.
Meanwhile, Saka’s development persists, and his impact on Arsenal’s attacking play remains unmatched. Even when he isn’t scoring, Saka actively contributes to the team’s attacking efforts.
Despite playing fewer minutes, Saka has outperformed Foden in both goals and assists. In the Premier League, only Ollie Watkins (26), Mohamed Salah (24), and Erling Haaland (23) have been more directly involved in goals than Saka, who boasts an impressive record of 13 goals and 8 assists.
Following Saka in the goal involvements ranking is Son Heung-min (19), then comes Foden with 11 goals and 7 assists.
However, four of Saka’s 13 goals have been penalties, while Foden hasn’t scored from the spot. It’s noteworthy that Foden does all of his damage from open play.
How Important Are They Both To Their Teams?
Regarding their significance to their respective teams, Saka has played a slightly more substantial role in Arsenal’s attack compared to Foden’s contribution to Man City this season, although the difference is marginal.
Saka, with 21 goals and assists, has directly contributed to 30.88% of Arsenal’s Premier League goals this season.
On the other hand, Foden has played a pivotal role in 29.03% of Man City’s 62 Premier League goals, making him the second-most influential player in Guardiola’s squad in terms of direct goal involvement.
According to Squawka, out of Foden’s 11 goals in the current Premier League season, four of them have been decisive game-winning goals. Meanwhile, Saka has scored three game-winning goals this season.
A game-winning goal is the decisive goal that impacts the outcome of a match. This could be the first goal in a 6-0 victory or the fourth in a 5-3 win, along with other more recognisable scenarios, as per Squawka.
Saka vs Foden Against The ‘Big Six’ Overall
Saka against the ‘big six’:
- 3 goals and 2 assists vs Manchester United
- 2 goals and 2 assists vs Tottenham
- 2 goals and 2 assists vs Chelsea
- 3 goals vs Liverpool
- 2 goals vs Manchester City
Saka has made 18 goal contributions against the ‘big six’ in all competitions since the start of the 2019/20 season.
Bukayo Saka- 23-24 Arsenal’s Treasure pic.twitter.com/i3lflDakdh
— 🎾 (@Pianist_fcb) March 5, 2024
Foden against the ‘big six’:
- 6 goals vs Manchester United
- 3 goals and 2 assists vs Tottenham
- 2 goals and 3 assists vs Chelsea
- 3 goals and 2 assists vs Liverpool
- 2 goals and 3 assists vs Arsenal
Foden has made 26 goal contributions against the ‘big six’ in all competitions since the start of the 2017/18 season.
— lafodance (@47vids_) March 7, 2024
Rio Ferdinand’s Verdict
During a discussion following Manchester City’s 3-1 away victory against Copenhagen in the Champions League, Laura Woods asked Rio Ferdinand’s opinion on whether Foden should be deemed ‘world class.’
Ferdinand said, “I think you’ve got to be looking at him like that. For what he does for the team, he’s important to the team.
“With assists, with goals, with the rhythm of the game, especially this season, I think he’s got to be in the conversation or nearing that at least.”
Continuing the debate on his podcast VIBE, Ferdinand was questioned about why he doesn’t consider Bukayo Saka to be world-class. Expanding on his views regarding Foden, Ferdinand asserted that Saka’s performances haven’t reached the pinnacle of top-level competition.
He stated, “Because I don’t think he’s done it at the top level, winning trophies in a team like this. You’ve got to understand and respect, Phil Foden has done this, where the medals are handed out, he’s performed.
“Saka needs the opportunity to perform at that platform, that level, consistently, and then we’ll see where he’s at. You can consider him then.”
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