#UCLSemiFinals: “I’d Take Saka Over Vinicius” — Tony Cascarino Hails Arsenal Star Ahead of PSG Clash
As Arsenal gear up to face Paris Saint-Germain in their UEFA Champions League semi-final first-leg clash on Tuesday, former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino has stirred conversation by backing Bukayo Saka over Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.
In a passionate take during his appearance on talkSPORT, Cascarino praised Saka’s hunger, work rate, and impact, comparing him favorably to both Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe — two of the most talked-about names in world football.
“Bukayo Saka has improved enormously. And his hunger and desire — all what I criticize Mbappe for not doing — Saka gives you that,” Cascarino said.
“If you said to me ‘would you take Vinicius Jr or Saka?’ I would say Saka.”
According to Cascarino, Vinicius Jr.'s form has dipped following Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid, which has not only shifted the spotlight but also seemingly disrupted the Brazilian’s rhythm — as well as that of fellow forward Rodrygo.
He also gave credit to Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, young Arsenal prospects, for their tactical awareness, noting how Lewis-Skelly handled Rodrygo in previous fixtures.
“Vinicius Jr – look at Saka, look at how hard he works, look at the effect he is having on defenders, and he was the standout feature of why Arsenal got through,” Cascarino added. “And he has come off a big, long, bad injury.”
Saka: Arsenal’s Spark and Symbol
At just 22, Bukayo Saka is already becoming Arsenal’s talisman. His influence in the quarter-final victory over Real Madrid was undeniable, and he continues to grow into one of the most complete wide forwards in world football — combining technical ability with relentless pressing and intelligence.
Opinion: Is Saka the Most Underrated Star in Europe Right Now?
While Vinicius Jr. and Mbappe dominate the headlines, players like Saka often do the gritty work that wins big games. Cascarino’s comments speak to a growing sentiment in the football world: Saka is no longer just a promising talent — he’s a world-class player in his own right.
As Arsenal prepare to host PSG in what could be the most important European match of their modern era, Saka will once again be central to their hopes of reaching the final.
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Do you agree with Cascarino — is Bukayo Saka now ahead of Vinicius Jr. on current form?
