Bukayo Saka told he could 'easily be playing for Real Madrid' as Arsenal legend insists star winger 'deserves to be in Ballon d'Or discussion'

Saka’s exceptional performance in Arsenal's 3-0 win against Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie has drawn lavish praise from Emmanuel Petit, who claims that the Gunners winger would have no trouble getting into Carlo Ancelotti's starting XI at Santiago Bernabeu.

Saka stood out in a night filled with top-class displays, with his electric play down the right flank causing endless problems for Real Madrid's defence. The England international's decisive runs repeatedly exposed David Alaba, drawing fouls and creating key set-piece opportunities that ultimately proved pivotal.

In an interview with William Hill, former Arsenal and France midfielder Petit had nothing but admiration for the 22-year-old, as he said: "Saka could easily be playing for Real Madrid. He’s one of the best players in the world in his position, even at this early stage of his career. It’s incredibly rare to see someone return from injury and consistently perform at such a high level, as he did on Tuesday night.

“His contributions in terms of goals and assists are elite. Just look at his performance against Madrid — he was absolutely crucial for Arsenal. One-on-one, down the flank, he’s a nightmare to defend. If Madrid were to make a move for him, I’m sure their fans would be more than delighted.”

The World Cup winner didn’t stop there. Petit argued that Saka’s influence on Arsenal’s Champions League run could impact the Ballon d’Or race - especially with big names like Kylian Mbappe potentially exiting the competition early.

“The Ballon d’Or race is incredibly tight this year. Without a World Cup or Euros, the spotlight is firmly on the Champions League," he said. "That puts even more weight on performances from players still in the competition — Raphinha with Barcelona, Ousmane Dembélé at Paris Saint-Germain — they’re very much in the conversation. At this point, it could come down to something as simple as: whoever lifts the Champions League trophy might lift the Ballon d’Or too.

“After Arsenal’s first-leg win over Real Madrid, it’s hard to ignore the impact that could have on Kylian Mbappé’s chances. If he’s knocked out early, it dents his case. And on the flip side, if Arsenal go all the way, Bukayo Saka absolutely deserves to be in the Ballon d’Or discussion, but it may be tricky for him this season as he was injured for four months. But at the level he’s playing right now, you can’t count him out.”

However, Saka’s night didn’t end without concern. He was forced off in the 74th minute after what appeared to be an ankle knock. While the substitution raised some eyebrows, manager Mikel Arteta was quick to reassure fans that the injury was not serious and that his withdrawal was precautionary. Hence, he should be available for the second leg, scheduled for April 16 at the Santiago Bernabeu.