According to a report by Football London on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has defended Bukayo Saka against increasing criticism over his attacking output, suggesting that Mikel Arteta’s tactical demands have affected the winger’s performances for the North London club.

Speaking on CBS Sports, Henry expressed frustration with the repeated questions about Saka’s form, arguing that expectations have sometimes overshadowed the England international’s contributions to Arsenal.

“Every time people see me, they think I’m working for Arsenal,” Henry said. “‘What’s wrong with Bukayo?’ I’m like, my name is Thierry. There is nothing wrong.”

Henry backed his argument by comparing Saka’s Premier League statistics with those of former Manchester United midfielder David Beckham, highlighting their contributions despite differences in their goals and assists.

Saka has scored 63 goals and provided 50 assists in 233 Premier League appearances, while Beckham recorded 62 goals and 80 assists in 265 matches in the competition.

Although Henry acknowledged Saka’s lower assist tally, he pointed out that Beckham played alongside prolific forwards, including Dwight Yorke and Ruud van Nistelrooy, during his time at Manchester United.

The former Arsenal striker also highlighted Saka’s achievements with England, noting that the winger had scored 19 goals and registered 16 assists in his first 59 international appearances. Beckham, meanwhile, managed 11 goals and 15 assists for the national team.

“The point is there is nothing wrong, that people want more of him,” Henry explained, suggesting that comparisons with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have contributed to the high expectations placed on modern attacking players.

Henry further argued that Arteta’s tactical instructions have limited Saka’s attacking freedom, claiming that Arsenal previously played with a more fluid style that allowed the winger to express himself more effectively in the final third.

“It’s not the same Bukayo that we see with England, and we saw two and a half years ago playing for Arsenal,” Henry said, pointing to the differences between Saka’s responsibilities for his club and the national team.

The Frenchman questioned whether the winger should receive all the criticism when he is required to follow different tactical instructions depending on the team he represents.

“He can do better, but he has a job to do with England that’s different with Arsenal,” Henry added, reminding critics that Saka has already won trophies with the North London club.

Saka has scored four goals this season, with Arteta previously challenging him to improve his attacking output. Arsenal will now hope his injury does not significantly disrupt his progress as the campaign continues.