Bukayo Saka is confident that Arsenal can finally clinch the Premier League title this season after making a significant “statement” with their impressive 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. The Gunners looked dominant in their home opener on Tuesday night, securing the win with first-half goals from Kai Havertz and Saka, showcasing their progress under Mikel Arteta’s leadership.
This victory against PSG is considered one of the defining moments of Arteta’s nearly five-year tenure at the Emirates Stadium. It sends a clear signal that Arsenal is not only improving but also capable of competing with Europe’s elite. The win came after a rather lackluster goalless draw against Europa League holders Atalanta, proving that the Gunners have the quality to topple the continent’s biggest teams. Saka’s performance was instrumental in this success, reinforcing his belief that this could be the year Arsenal end their two-decade-long wait for a domestic title.
The triumph over PSG adds to a growing sense of momentum in North London, especially following their dramatic 98th-minute equalizer against Manchester City last month. Despite playing with ten men for much of the match, Arsenal nearly claimed a landmark victory over their title rivals. This result leaves the Gunners unbeaten in the Premier League, currently sitting third after winning four of their first six league games. They are just one point behind early leaders Liverpool and trail defending champions City only due to a slightly inferior goal difference.
Arsenal’s resurgence is further buoyed by Manchester City’s recent slip-ups. With City dropping points in successive league games and losing key player Rodri for the season, there is a growing belief that Arsenal can capitalize on the opportunity. This optimism is palpable within the squad, and Saka, who has been a key figure in their success, is not shy about expressing his belief in their title credentials.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on us, but I do think that this is the year we can win the title,” Saka told CBS Sports after the PSG match. “I think we’ve been close the last two years and we’re getting closer, but this hopefully will be the year.” His words reflect not just confidence but a sense of destiny that has been building within the team over the past few seasons.
In a separate interview with Amazon Prime Video, Saka highlighted his hunger for success. “Previous years, I’ve come runners-up a lot. It’s just that spirit in me that I want to win this season and, of course, I believe in myself a lot. With those two things, it helps. We believe in ourselves, we believe we’re a top team,” he said. “We showed that tonight (against PSG). I did tell the boys we have to make a statement when big teams are coming to the Emirates.”
Saka’s words resonate with a squad that has matured under Arteta, embodying the determination and belief needed to challenge for top honors. The Gunners’ recent performances, both domestically and in Europe, suggest they may indeed be ready to turn their potential into silverware this season.
