Arsenal’s star winger Bukayo Saka has officially been crowned as the highest-rated player across Europe’s top five leagues in 2024, according to statistics from Who scored.com. With an outstanding average rating of 7.88, Saka finished ahead of elite competition to underline his consistency, impact, and undeniable quality throughout the season.
Dominating the Rankings
The numbers place Saka at the summit of Europe’s most competitive leagues, beating out the likes of Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala (7.81) and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (7.78), who finished second and third, respectively. Harry Kane (7.74), Lamine Yamal (7.70), and Omar Marmoush (7.67) round off the rest of the top six, while names like Florian Wirtz, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Raphinha also feature prominently in the top ten.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 11: Bukayo Saka celebrates scoring the 2nd Arsenal goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Arsenal FC and AS Monaco at Emirates Stadium on December 11, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This is no small feat for Saka, who managed to edge out stars playing for some of the biggest clubs in world football. His performances have been a bright spark in Arsenal’s 2024 campaign, further solidifying his reputation as one of the brightest talents in modern football.
Saka’s Impressive Season
The 23-year-old has been instrumental for Mikel Arteta’s side in the Premier League and European competitions. Renowned for his incredible work rate, blistering pace, and ability to deliver in key moments, Saka has shown maturity beyond his years. His versatility—being equally effective cutting inside or staying wide—has been crucial for Arsenal’s attacking dynamics.
Across all competitions, Saka’s combination of goals, assists, and chance creation has been unmatched. Whether driving at defenders, scoring crucial goals, or setting up his teammates, he consistently delivered performances that garnered plaudits from fans and pundits alike.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 11: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Arsenal FC and AS Monaco at Emirates Stadium on December 11, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
A Symbol of Arsenal’s Progress
Saka’s recognition as the top-rated player also highlights Arsenal’s steady progress under Arteta. Despite the Gunners’ ups and downs throughout the season, Saka’s individual brilliance has often been the difference-maker, with the English international carrying the team during critical moments. This accolade reaffirms his growing importance not just for Arsenal but also for England as one of their standout stars.
The Competition He Overcame
Jamal Musiala’s impressive season at Bayern Munich saw him finish just behind Saka with a 7.81 rating. The German international dazzled with his technical ability and eye for goal, while Chelsea’s Cole Palmer took the Premier League by storm, earning third place with a 7.78 rating.
Harry Kane, who joined Bayern Munich last summer, delivered on his reputation with a 7.74 average, finishing as the top-scoring striker in the rankings. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal (7.70) continues to amaze at just 16 years old, while Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior’s performances at Real Madrid earned them well-deserved places in the list.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring a goal, which was later ruled out for offside, following a VAR review during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
A Year to Remember for Saka
Saka’s rise to the top of the WhoScored ratings is not only a testament to his technical brilliance but also his consistency throughout a demanding season. His ability to deliver week in and week out against the best opposition in Europe reflects his growing stature in world football.
As Arsenal continue to build their squad for the future, Saka remains their crown jewel, a symbol of excellence and promise. Fans will now hope he can carry this incredible form into the next campaign, as Arsenal push for domestic and European glory.
Conclusion
Finishing with a 7.88 average rating, Bukayo Saka’s recognition as Europe’s highest-rated player is a monumental achievement. With performances like these, it’s clear that Saka is on a trajectory to become one of the very best players in the world.