Anglo-Nigerian winger Saka fails to reward over 900k managers after firing blanks against Everton

The curse of the most-transferred-in player struck again as Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka left 921,757 Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers disappointed, blanking in a frustrating 1-1 draw against Everton at Goodison Park in Gameweek 31. 

Saka, priced at £10.3m, had been the top target for transfers this week, amassing over 270,000 new owners, more than double the total of any other player, following his goal-scoring return from injury in Arsenal’s midweek 2-1 win over Fulham at the Emirates.

PAY ATTENTION: Check out Bet Of The Day page - we provide expert tips

Hopes were high for the Anglo-Nigerian winger to deliver against Everton, but Mikel Arteta’s decision to start Saka on the bench dashed the dreams of many FPL managers from the outset. 

The 23-year-old came on in the second half, playing 45 minutes, but failed to make an impact as Arsenal struggled to break down a resilient Everton side. 

The Gunners, unable to build on their recent form, were held to a draw, leaving Saka with no goals or assists to show for his time on the pitch.

For FPL managers, the outcome was a bitter pill to swallow. Saka’s massive transfer-in numbers had made him the cornerstone of many gameweek strategies, but his lack of returns highlighted the risks of chasing the most popular picks. 

Arsenal’s draw also dented their momentum in the Premier League, as they failed to secure maximum points on the road. 

The points dropped mean that Liverpool are closer than ever to the Premier League title, with Arne Slot within four wins to lifting the crown on his debut.

For Saka and his legion of FPL backers, it was a night to forget at Goodison Park.