Not with the way the winger smashed home his 10th goal of the season to help Arsenal win 4-2 and go back top of the Premier League, but the manner in which he reacted to Villa midfielder Philippe Coutinho upending him with a late tackle from behind.
Saka leapt to his feet and pushed the Brazilian, as players from both sides charged in to break them up.
The Arsenal player was booked, but he had sent a message: enough was enough, and he was not going to tolerate any more rough treatment.
Loved at both Arsenal and England for being one of the most kind and mild-mannered players, Saka showed on Saturday an edge to his game.
Those closest to him insist that side has always been there, and now his importance at Arsenal has grown, it is manifesting itself on the pitch.
Saka has become Arsenal’s talisman this season and it is why they are desperate to tie him down to a new contract. The 21-year-old’s deal expires at the end of next season and talks are ongoing. Arsenal remain optimistic an agreement can be found.
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Esta historia es de la edición February 22, 2023 de Evening Standard.
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