Arsenal Tactical Masterclass: Mikel Arteta Says 'I Wanted to Try It' After Unlocking New Role for Bukayo Saka in FA Cup Rout of Wigan Athletic

‎Mikel Arteta chose to use Bukayo Saka in a more central attacking position during Arsenal’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Wigan on Sunday, and the tactical move helped his side secure a commanding 4-0 victory. The Arsenal manager later explained that the positional switch was something he had been eager to test and hinted it may become a more frequent option going forward.

‎

‎Arsenal delivered a dominant FA Cup performance against Wigan as Mikel Arteta tested Bukayo Saka in a central role. The tactical switch could influence future matches this season.

‎Getty Images Sport (2)

‎

‎Arsenal booked their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup with an impressive performance. Although Saka was initially named among the substitutes, he was drafted into the starting lineup after Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury during the warm-up. Instead of playing Saka in his usual wide role, Arteta positioned him as a No. 8. The change worked well as Arsenal quickly overwhelmed Wigan, scoring four goals inside the opening 30 minutes through Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and an own goal from Jack Hunt.

‎

‎After the match, Arteta expressed his satisfaction with both the scoreline and the way his players approached the game. He praised the intensity shown from kickoff and highlighted how well the team connected despite multiple lineup changes. He admitted he was slightly surprised by how quickly the squad found its rhythm but was delighted with the quality of goals scored.

‎

‎Speaking about Saka’s new role, Arteta confirmed it is a tactical option Arsenal could revisit. He noted that playing centrally places Saka closer to goal, making it harder for defenders to track him consistently. The flexibility also allows him to rotate positions with wide players while using his ability to find dangerous spaces and create problems for opponents when in possession.

‎

‎Arteta also praised summer arrival Eberechi Eze, who produced two assists and delivered an impressive performance after a difficult spell. The Arsenal manager highlighted Eze’s willingness to take risks in attacking areas and his readiness to shoot, calling those qualities essential for creative players. He also praised Gabriel Martinelli’s movement and finishing, saying the performance would boost team morale and confidence.

‎

‎Looking ahead, Arsenal will learn their FA Cup fifth-round opponent when the draw takes place on Monday. The team will then shift attention back to their Premier League title ambitions, including an upcoming away trip to face Wolves at Molineux.