Bukayo Saka: Arsenal Star 'Responds' to Rio Ferdinand's Claim That He is Not World Class

Bukayo Saka: Arsenal Star 'Responds' to Rio Ferdinand's Claim That He is Not World Class

Fred Kennedy
February 25, 2024 at 2:49 PM
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  • Rio Ferdinand sparked reactions after he said Bukayo Saka is not world-class yet
  • The Arsenal star responded to Rio's claim on Saturday after scoring vs Newcastle
  • Saka netted a solo goal as the Gunners hammered Newcastle 4-1 at Emirates Stadium

Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has responded to Rio Ferdinand's claim that he is not world-class.

Ferdinand recently stroked controversy after he maintained that Saka cannot be considered world-class yet.

Bukayo Saka celebrates after scoring during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium. Photo by Stuart MacFarlane.
Bukayo Saka celebrates after scoring during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium. Photo by Stuart MacFarlane.
Source: Getty Images

Speaking on the VIBE with FIVE podcast, the Manchester United legend went on to suggest that Phil Foden is actually better than the Gunners' ace.

“Not yet. Listen, I think Saka’s been unreal. I actually think he needs a bit of a rest, so many games for a young kid," Rio said.
“But I think, it’s almost like what is world-class? He hasn’t done it in the Champions League, has he? I’m talking in the nitty-gritty stages. Saka’s top, don’t get me wrong. He’s not world-class yet," he added.

Bukayo Saka responds to Rio Ferdinand

On Saturday, SPORTbible notes that TNT reporter Jules Breach appeared to bring up the subject after Saka helped Arsenal beat Newcastle United.

“16 goals now this season, how about that finish as well, some would call it world-class," Breach probed.

Saka laughed and said:

“No comment. I am happy with another goal today and more importantly happy to win. I am working hard every day and giving my best."

Saka was part of Arsenal's history-making side as the Gunners hammered Newcastle 4-1 to continue their impressive run of form in the Premier League.

The Englishman netted a brilliant solo goal during the tie, with Kai Havertz and Jakub Kiwior also getting their names on the scoresheet.

Arsenal fans boo Rio

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Rio Ferdinand having a rough time while on a Porto-bound plane after he encountered Arsenal fans who booed him over his remarks on Saka.

Despite doubling down on his criticism of the Gunners star later on his 'Vibe with Five' podcast, a number of the club's fans are still seemingly furious at the former England international.

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Fred Kennedy
Fred Kennedy has a Bachelor's degree in journalism (Daystar University), currently working as a Sports Editor. He has more than five years of experience in digital journalism.