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Bukayo Saka, who has scored seven times this season, has been advised on what aspects of his game need improvement, with Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah presented as a model for inspiration. The Arsenal forward, despite his creative flair, has been told that his performance could reach new heights with a stronger end product.

Across the past two Premier League campaigns, Saka has netted just 13 goals for Arsenal. Former England winger Chris Waddle, in a conversation with GOAL, analysed where the Gunners’ star can take his game to the next level, using Salah as an example of consistent attacking output.

The Hale End academy graduate found the net seven times during the 2025-26 Premier League season, helping Arsenal end their 22-year wait for a league title. In the previous season, he scored six goals, following a career-best tally of 16 during the 2023-24 campaign.

When asked whether goal-scoring is an area Saka should focus on, Waddle responded: “Yes, definitely. With the number of touches he gets and the ability he possesses, it’s something he can improve. We know he prefers cutting inside on his left foot. I’ve been a little critical in the last couple of years, saying he should work on his right foot more—go down the outside, cross it in, and not be hesitant. Yet, when you have a certain skill and a specific way to beat defenders, you tend to stick with your trademark move of coming inside.”

He continued, “Football today is different from when I played. Back then, you always went at opponents—there was space and freedom. At Arsenal, a top side, teams often sit deep, park the bus, and block him from cutting inside, forcing him to cross or pass. He’s had some injury issues this season, but it’s an area he needs to develop further.”

Waddle added, “He must find ways to get into the box when the play is on the left flank. Instead of Viktor Gyokeres or Kai Havertz being the target, Saka should attack the far post to pick up more goals.”

Drawing comparisons, Waddle said: “If you’re looking for a player with a similar role, Mohamed Salah is the obvious example. Salah takes chances and scores goals regularly. He might not track back as much as Saka, but when Liverpool are attacking, he’s always in the right positions—ready for tap-ins or cutting inside to shoot with his left foot. Saka could learn from that approach, though Arsenal’s playing style differs from Liverpool’s.”

Turning to the England national team, Saka is expected to start on the right wing at the 2026 World Cup, fitness permitting. His Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke has been chosen as his backup, despite scoring only three Premier League goals and often being used as a substitute by Mikel Arteta.

Jarrod Bowen, West Ham’s captain, has scored 38 top-flight goals over the last three seasons. When asked about Madueke’s selection over Bowen, Waddle commented: “Jarrod Bowen guarantees goals. He’s shown that consistently over the past few seasons at West Ham.”

Waddle went on, “Even though West Ham had a poor season and were relegated, Bowen has always been a reliable presence on that right flank. His playing style, in many ways, mirrors Salah’s in terms of goal contribution. Bowen could have been a valuable alternative—if Saka wasn’t performing, Bowen could come on and deliver. It’s harsh that he didn’t even make it as a backup.”

As England continue their World Cup preparations, manager Thomas Tuchel is evaluating his options ahead of the opening match against Croatia on June 17. Saka is expected to feature from the start, and as someone who has occasionally captained Arsenal, he will be tasked with providing chances for Harry Kane while also contributing goals himself. The winger has scored 14 times in 49 senior international appearances so far.

England fans will be eager to see how far the team can go in the World Cup, with Saka’s performances likely to play a crucial role in their campaign.