Madueke Is better than Saka - Ex-Chelsea star reveals

Former Chelsea and Manchester United defender Paul Parker has sparked debate after claiming that Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is overrated compared to England teammate Noni Madueke.

Madueke impressed in England’s recent international fixtures, particularly against Andorra, where his direct style of play drew plaudits.

Speaking to WhichBookie, Parker argued that the Chelsea academy product, now at Arsenal, offers more threat than Saka.

“Chelsea let Noni Madueke go to Arsenal even though he’s one of England’s best wingers, and he was probably their best player against Andorra,” Parker said.

He continued, “He came on when Arsenal were behind against Liverpool and I think he looked really positive. I thought it was a strange decision for Chelsea to let him go. With the way he plays, I actually think he’s better than Bukayo Saka.

“Saka doesn’t go on the outside, he doesn’t have a great change of pace and he doesn’t frighten defenders. Madueke does strike that fear into defenders because he wants to run at players and go past them.”

The outspoken pundit didn’t stop there. He also suggested that Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estevao Willian offers more than the Arsenal star.

“The problem is that Saka is like a God to Arsenal fans. He knows he’s going to play every game,” Parker continued.

“I just don’t get the hype around him. I really don’t understand it. I wouldn’t take him over someone like Estevao at Chelsea. You’d rather take a chance on him because he’s got pace and, as a defender, you’re always worried about him getting in behind you.

“As a defender, you want things to happen in front of you and that’s what Saka does by cutting inside, while Estevao is willing to go both ways to beat his man,” he added.

Parker’s remarks are sure to rile Arsenal supporters, especially as Saka remains one of the club’s most influential players.

However, Madueke’s rise with the national team and Estevao’s early promise at Stamford Bridge have added fuel to the debate over England’s next generation of wide forwards.