Stan Collymore, a former footballer and pundit, recently voiced his belief that Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka has stood out as the best English player this season, even surpassing Real Madrid’s rising star, Jude Bellingham. Saka’s performances on the field and his ability to overcome the EURO 2020 penalty miss impressed Collymore, leading him to name Saka his player of the season so far.
Saka’s resilience and composure despite the high-pressure situation of a missed penalty showcased his mental fortitude and maturity beyond his years. Collymore acknowledged Saka’s emergence as a pivotal player for Arsenal, where he is seen as the game-changer, displaying a remarkable ability to score goals and create scoring opportunities.
On the other hand, Collymore also acknowledged Jude Bellingham’s exceptional start at Real Madrid, highlighting his impressive journey from Birmingham to Dortmund and then to the prestigious Madrid club. Bellingham’s ability to handle the transition to such a high-profile club and perform consistently caught Collymore’s attention, recognizing him as an equally strong contender for the player of the season.
Despite Bellingham’s incredible trajectory, Collymore noted that the young midfielder has skillfully managed to evade the intense spotlight often associated with joining such a prominent football club. Bellingham’s appearances for England followed by his performances for Real Madrid have allowed him to navigate the pressure and expectations seamlessly.
However, Collymore emphasized that Saka, in contrast, continues to bear the weight of being a key figure at Arsenal and a significant contributor to the England squad. This added responsibility has not hindered Saka’s stellar performances, showcasing his exceptional talent and ability to deliver when it matters most.