Saka sets new England scoring record for Arsenal players

Bukayo Saka wrote a new chapter in Arsenal’s international history with his goal against Wales on Thursday night. The forward struck in the 20th minute at Wembley, curling the ball beautifully into the top corner to put England three goals ahead in the friendly encounter.

With that finish, the 24-year-old moved past a record that had been in place since 1938. It marked his 13th international goal, making him the most prolific Arsenal player in the history of the England men’s national team.

Surpassing a legend from the past

The milestone saw Saka move ahead of Cliff Bastin, whose total of 12 goals had remained untouched for nearly nine decades. Bastin reached his tally during a five-year spell with the national side and was long considered untouchable in this regard.

Several Gunners have approached that mark over the years. Tony Woodcock and Ian Wright both registered nine strikes each for the Three Lions but ultimately fell short of overtaking Bastin’s figure.

Reaching the peak early

Saka has already outdone all three of those names at a young age. Heading into the October international break, he was in excellent form for his club, and his scoring run has now extended to three consecutive appearances for both Arsenal and England.

Recently, he received high praise from Thierry Henry after achieving his 100th Premier League goal contribution in just 200 top-flight matches, underlining his growing influence.

Eyes on the next challenge

The winger will have another opportunity to extend his new record next week. England faces Latvia on Tuesday, October 14, in a 2026 World Cup qualifier, where Saka could add to his goal tally and further cement his place in the national team’s history.

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Staff Writer