Arsenal’s Title Hopes Remain Intact After Draw with Wolves, Saka Signs Novel Deal

Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions remain on track after a 2-2 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The result sees the Gunners extend their lead at the top of the table, while Bukayo Saka seemingly confirmed a new long-term contract with the club.

Match Report: Wolves Hold Arsenal to a Draw

Arsenal took the lead early through Bukayo Saka’s goal in the 5th minute, ending a 15-match scoreless streak for the winger. Piero Hincapie extended Arsenal’s advantage in the 56th minute. Yet, Wolves mounted a late comeback, with Hugo Bueno scoring in the 61st minute. The equalizer came in stoppage time when Riccardo Calafiori scored an own goal in the 90+4th minute, securing a 2-2 draw for the home side.

Saka Commits Future to Arsenal

Amidst the match, Bukayo Saka appeared to signal his commitment to Arsenal by mimicking signing a contract after scoring his opening goal. This gesture followed rumors of a new deal to keep the England international at the Emirates Stadium until 2031. The reported contract is worth over £300,000 per week, potentially making Saka Arsenal’s highest earner, surpassing Kai Havertz’s £280,000 weekly wage. Saka, a product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, has been with the club since the age of seven, making his first-team debut in November 2018.

Injury Scare for Saka

Despite the positive news regarding his contract, Saka was forced off the field with an injury during the second half, raising concerns ahead of Arsenal’s crucial North London Derby against Tottenham. He was replaced by Leandro Trossard. Trossard himself later needed to be substituted after a challenge, further compounding Arsenal’s injury woes.

League Standings and Upcoming Fixtures

With this result, Arsenal increased their points tally to 58, extending their lead over second-placed Manchester City to five points. Wolverhampton Wanderers moved to 10 points. Arsenal will face Tottenham in their next match, while Wolves will travel to Crystal Palace.

Bukayo Saka: A Rising Star

Bukayo Saka has become a key player for Arsenal under manager Mikel Arteta. He was named Arsenal Player of the Year in both 2020/21 and 2021/22. In the 2023/24 season, Saka finished as Arsenal’s top scorer in both the Premier League (16 goals) and all competitions (20 goals). He also captained the club for the first time in a 5-0 win over Sheffield United.

Saka’s season was briefly interrupted by a hamstring injury in December 2024, but he returned to action and immediately made an impact, scoring against Fulham. He also scored against Real Madrid in the Champions League, helping Arsenal reach the semi-finals.