Arsenal demand protection for Bukayo Saka! Gunners complain to PGMOL with star winger among most-fouled players in Premier League

The Gunners have been unhappy with the treatment handed out to Saka this season and have spoken to the refereeing body to make their grievances known, according to Mail Sport. Mikel Arteta's side have also called for greater protection for the England international who they believe has been targeted for some harsh treatment by defenders. Arsenal want players booked for "the first strong foul" on Saka after becoming frustrated at seeing referees waiting for a second incident before reaching for the yellow card.

Saka was the third most-fouled player in the Premier League in 2023, behind only Jordan Ayew and Bruno Guimaraes, and was on the receiving end of 87 fouls. His willingness to run with the ball and drive at defenders means he is often targeted by defenders, with teams now regularly doubling up on the England international. Arsenal have become reliant on Saka's goals and assists but his form has dropped off recently and he's only scored once in his last six matches.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been calling for protection for Saka for some time. He said back in November 2022: "The better the players become, the bigger target they become because people try and find ways to stop him.

"That is why football has very clear rules, what you can do and what you cannot do, and that is the referees’ job [to protect players].”

Arsenal's complaint may also be borne from the fact that Saka has been struggling with an Achilles injury and the club would be loathe to lose the winger at a crucial juncture in the season. The Gunners have seen their title hopes hit in recent weeks by defeats to Fulham, West Ham and Aston Villa and will know they can't afford too many more slip-ups if they are to finish top of the pile.