Bukayo Saka names best team Arsenal has played this season – with Liverpool snubbed

 

Bukayo Saka has revealed his pick for the toughest team Arsenal have faced this season—and surprisingly, it’s not Liverpool.

Despite the Reds’ strong campaign, including a thrilling 1-1 draw at Anfield and a pivotal 3-1 defeat at the Emirates that dented their title hopes, Saka believes another Premier League side posed a bigger challenge.

Saka’s Toughest Opponent: Aston Villa

In a recent interview, the Arsenal winger singled out Aston Villa as the most difficult team the Gunners have played this season. Unai Emery’s side did the double over Arsenal, winning 1-0 at Villa Park in December before a stunning 2-0 victory at the Emirates in April—a result that dealt a major blow to Arsenal’s title ambitions.

“Villa were really tough,” Saka admitted. “They had a great game plan, defended well, and took their chances. Those were two really hard games for us.”

Why Not Liverpool?

Liverpool’s high-intensity style under Jürgen Klopp has often troubled Arsenal in recent years, but Saka’s omission suggests the Gunners handled their encounters better than expected. Arsenal’s dominant 3-1 win in February showcased their ability to nullify Liverpool’s threats, while the Anfield draw was a hard-fought battle where Mikel Arteta’s side held firm.

By contrast, Villa’s tactical discipline and clinical finishing under Emery—a former Arsenal manager—proved more problematic. Their compact defensive shape and quick transitions left Arsenal frustrated in both meetings.

Other Contenders

While Manchester City remain Arsenal’s biggest rivals for the title, their two league meetings this season were tightly contested—a 1-0 win for Arsenal at the Emirates and a 0-0 stalemate at the Etihad. Saka’s selection of Villa highlights how unexpected losses can have a bigger psychological impact than clashes with traditional top sides.

What This Says About Arsenal’s Season

Saka’s choice underscores the importance of consistency in the Premier League. While Arsenal have risen to the occasion against fellow title contenders, it’s the surprise defeats—like those against Villa—that may have cost them crucial points in the race.

As the Gunners look to strengthen this summer, finding ways to break down well-organized mid-table sides will be just as important as their big-game performances.