Justin Kluivert says Arsenal player who’s only scored once this season is better than Alexis Sanchez

Justin Kluivert has been sharing his opinions on some of the best wingers in Premier League history, and his comments have sparked plenty of debate. In an interview with The Mail, the Bournemouth forward was tasked with comparing various wingers, both past and present, to determine who he believed to be the best among them. While some of his selections were expected, one particular choice involving a current Arsenal player has caused a stir.

During the interview, Kluivert expressed his admiration for Alexis Sanchez, who was once a star at Arsenal, known for his dynamic attacking play, creativity, and work rate. Sanchez was a key figure during his time at the Emirates, scoring crucial goals and leading the team to several victories. However, when comparing Sanchez to a current Arsenal player, Kluivert made a surprising claim: he believes there is a winger in the current Arsenal squad who is better than Sanchez, despite having only scored once this season.

Kluivert’s comments have drawn attention, particularly because of the player in question’s lack of goals this season. While the identity of this player remains a topic of debate, it highlights how perceptions of quality in football go beyond mere statistics. For Kluivert, attributes like skill, potential, and contribution to the team’s overall play are just as important as goal-scoring records.

In another part of the interview, Kluivert was asked to compare Raheem Sterling with Alexis Sanchez. This particular comparison led to an intriguing revelation. Kluivert, perhaps controversially, chose Sterling over Sanchez. His reasoning centered around Sterling’s consistency over the years and his ability to perform at a high level for both club and country. Sterling, who has been a key player for clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea, has amassed an impressive goal tally and trophy collection, making him one of the standout wingers of his generation.

This choice sparked mixed reactions among fans and pundits alike. Sanchez’s peak years at Arsenal saw him regarded as one of the best players in the Premier League, combining flair, vision, and a knack for scoring important goals. Meanwhile, Sterling’s rise to prominence has been characterized by his explosive pace, technical ability, and an eye for goal, making him a pivotal figure in multiple title-winning teams.

Kluivert’s praise for Sterling over Sanchez highlights how player comparisons are often subjective and influenced by personal preferences. For some, Sanchez’s ability to single-handedly change the outcome of games at his peak places him ahead of Sterling. For others, Sterling’s sustained impact over a longer period gives him the edge.

Returning to Kluivert’s remarks about the current Arsenal winger, it’s clear that his assessment considers more than just goal contributions. Arsenal’s attacking setup under Mikel Arteta emphasizes fluidity, creativity, and collective effort, which may explain why certain players are valued for their contributions beyond scoring. While goals remain a crucial metric for wingers, their ability to influence the game through assists, pressing, and creating space for teammates is equally important in modern football.

The player Kluivert referenced is likely someone with the potential to reach great heights. Arsenal’s current squad boasts a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, making it plausible that a less heralded name could eventually surpass Sanchez’s legacy at the club. While it’s unclear if Kluivert was referring to someone like Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, or another winger, his belief in the player’s abilities is a testament to the depth of talent Arsenal possesses.

This debate also raises questions about how players are judged and compared across different eras. Sanchez’s time at Arsenal coincided with a period when the club was transitioning and often relied heavily on his contributions. In contrast, Arsenal’s current setup under Arteta is more balanced, with multiple players sharing the creative and goal-scoring responsibilities. This shift in team dynamics can affect how individual performances are perceived.

For Kluivert, being asked to compare players from different teams, roles, and styles of play is no easy task. His willingness to share his opinions, even when controversial, adds to the ongoing discourse about what makes a player great. It also underscores how football is constantly evolving, with new stars emerging to challenge the legacies of those who came before them.

As fans continue to dissect Kluivert’s comments, one thing is certain: the Premier League remains a breeding ground for world-class wingers, past and present. The league’s history is filled with players who have redefined the role, from Sanchez’s dazzling displays to Sterling’s relentless consistency and the potential of the current Arsenal squad.

Ultimately, Kluivert’s remarks serve as a reminder that football is as much about personal opinions and narratives as it is about statistics and accolades. Whether or not fans agree with his assessments, the discussions they provoke are a testament to the passion and diversity of perspectives that make the sport so captivating.