According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole has criticised Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka over his recent performances, describing the England international as a “passenger” in Mikel Arteta’s team.

Saka began the season positively, scoring three goals across competitions in his opening matches. However, the 25-year-old has recently struggled to maintain that level, going three consecutive Premier League appearances without finding the net.

The Arsenal forward played the entire match during his team’s 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest last weekend. However, it was substitute Noni Madueke who secured the win by scoring the decisive goal, further drawing attention to Saka’s recent difficulties in front of goal.

Speaking on The Dressing Room Podcast, Cole questioned the winger’s current influence and suggested that Arsenal should consider introducing stronger competition for his position rather than automatically including him in the starting lineup.

"We have to look at Saka, I’m not sure man, he’s not doing it," Cole said on The Dressing Room Podcast. "I think he’s a little bit of a passenger at the minute and I hope that he does come good but he’s not quite there right now."

Although Cole expressed hope that Saka would recover his best form, he argued that the player’s reputation should not protect him from competition when his performances fall below expectations.

The former striker also questioned whether Arteta applies the same standards to Saka as he does to other members of the squad. He suggested that the Arsenal manager might be more patient with the winger despite his recent lack of attacking output.

Cole also highlighted the potential of young prospect Max Dowman, suggesting that emerging talents should receive opportunities when they demonstrate that they are ready to contribute at senior level. Increased competition, he believes, could encourage established players to improve their performances.

The former Chelsea forward also raised concerns about Eberechi Eze’s role on the left wing after the midfielder was substituted at half-time against Nottingham Forest. Cole suggested that Eze could be more effective in a central position, although finding the ideal role for him presents another tactical challenge for Arteta.

Despite the criticism, Saka remains an important member of the Arsenal squad, and his recent goal drought does not necessarily diminish his overall contribution.

With the Gunners aiming to compete for major trophies this season, Saka and his attacking teammates will be expected to deliver more consistent performances. The coming matches could provide the winger with an opportunity to silence his critics and demonstrate why he remains one of Arsenal’s most influential players.