“I Have Never Seen This Version of Him Before” – Bukayo Saka Hails Arsenal Star Who Played Like Messi as Gunners Eye First Ever Champions League Glory
After Arsenal’s electrifying Champions League quarter-final victory last night, Bukayo Saka has set tongues wagging with a powerful post-match statement that’s reverberated across the football world. In a thrilling encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats, the young England international didn’t just speak about the team’s performance—he shone a spotlight on one of his teammates, praising him in a manner rarely heard before.
“I have never for once seen this version of him before,” Saka admitted when asked about the standout performer of the night. “Last night, he played like the Messi of Argentina. If he continues like this, we will definitely lift our first ever Champions League.”
And while many assumed he was referring to new midfield engine Declan Rice or even the ever-improving Martin Ødegaard, Saka quickly dispelled all speculation. “No, it wasn’t Merino. Not Declan either,” he clarified. “It was Leandro Trossard.”
The Belgian winger, who joined Arsenal from Brighton just over a year ago, delivered a sensational performance that caught fans, pundits, and even his own teammates completely off guard. From the first whistle, Trossard was unplayable—dancing past defenders, threading impossible passes, and scoring a breathtaking goal that left the stadium in absolute awe. He wasn’t just effective; he was majestic, reminiscent of Lionel Messi in Argentina’s World Cup-winning campaign.
Trossard’s impact wasn’t just limited to flair and finesse. His work rate was phenomenal, pressing high up the pitch, tracking back when needed, and linking up play with surgical precision. It was the kind of complete performance Arsenal fans have longed to see in crucial European fixtures—one that shows their team can go toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite and not just survive, but dominate.
“Every time he touched the ball, something magical seemed to happen,” Saka added. “We’ve seen how talented he is in training, but this was a different level. He had the entire stadium on their feet.”
The timing couldn’t have been better. With Arsenal now in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since the 2008–09 season, belief is beginning to swell among the fanbase. Under Mikel Arteta, this team has grown in maturity, depth, and ambition—but they’ve also been waiting for a player to step up in those defining moments. Last night, Trossard became that player.
Social media erupted with praise, with fans calling Trossard “the Belgian magician” and demanding he be given more starts in high-stakes games. Arteta, speaking in his post-match press conference, was equally glowing: “Leandro was unbelievable tonight. He gave us control, imagination, and a killer edge. Performances like this are why we brought him in.”
As Arsenal look ahead to a potential historic night in the Champions League final, Saka’s words may prove prophetic. If Trossard keeps up this level, the Gunners might just be on the brink of achieving something no Arsenal side has done before—lifting that elusive Champions League trophy.
And if that happens, it won’t just be remembered as a team triumph. It’ll be remembered as the moment when a player many underestimated transformed into a superstar on Europe’s biggest stage.