Bukayo Saka has admitted – as per BBC Live’s coverage – that Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta was “angry” with him after the Arsenal star won a penalty for his side under the challenge of the Spaniard, during a 4-2 win.
With Arsenal looking to hold on to a 3-2 win at Stamford Bridge – a stunning performance, and even a bit of a surprise after three defeats on the bounce – Saka looked to get on the end of a cross. Azpilicueta was in close proximity.
Both players hit the deck. Replays showed both were having a grapple – but the referee awarded a penalty. VAR showed no reason to overturn it. Saka got up and scored, his first spot kick since missing in the Euro 2020 final.
Eddie Nketiah netted twice and Emile Smith-Rowe also scored, while Timo Werner and Azpilicueta scored for Thomas Tuchel’s side. Saka spoke after the match, stating that the £150k-a-week (Spotrac) man was angry with him.
“Of course he [Azpilicueta] is going to be angry with me but it is what it is. It was a penalty,” Saka said. “It means a lot to us. Losing three games in a row is really difficult. We showed fight and character. It’s a huge result.”
Saka on Azpilicueta: Arsenal star showed enormous heart at Chelsea
His brilliant performance deserved a goal. Saka was everywhere and while Mikel Arteta made the bold decision to start a few fringe players like Nketiah, Mo Elneny and Rob Holding – it worked. Arsenal were superb.
But Saka was the best of the bench. Alan Shearer said he showed courage and bravery to step up and take the penalty – which was a spot kick. He deserves huge praise for carrying Arsenal out of the mire and winning.
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