After months on the sidelines, Bukayo Saka is smiling again both on and off the pitch. The Arsenal star recently made his long-awaited return from a long-term injury, marking his comeback in style with his first UEFA Champions League goal of the season against Olympiacos. It was a reminder of his quality and resilience, Softfootball reports.
Now one of the most experienced players in the squad, Saka recently made his 200th Premier League appearance, becoming only the eighth player in Arsenal’s history to record 100 goal involvements in the competition and the second-youngest to do so after Cesc Fàbregas. Despite the milestone, the forward insists he can still improve and “get even better” as he continues to evolve both as a player and a leader.
Speaking to the Arsenal media in an interview posted via the team’s official X handle, Saka reflected on his summer break, his growth into a leadership role, and the importance of staying grounded amid success, he said;
Summer was really nice. I enjoyed it because I got a lot of time away to actually recharge. It was nice to spend that time with my family and friends as well. I feel properly rested.
I went to Martin Odegaard’s wedding, which was beautiful. I was so happy that I was able to be there and see him and Helene get married. I love them and I wish them the best marriage.
I’d never actually been to a wedding before this summer – but then I had two on the bounce because it was my cousin’s wedding as well. It was a beautiful day to see him and all our family together.
I got up to a few other things as well. I went to Wimbledon and met Carlos Alcaraz – he’s a really top player but a really nice character as well. Then I went to New York and Miami. I always end up going to America. It’s so nice out there; they are beautiful cities.
Then it was time to come back to pre-season here, and that was great too because we had some downtime so I could actually get to see Singapore, and that’s beautiful as well – very impressive and very clean.
I feel it’s a natural evolution. I’ve grown into that responsibility. I have to be there, more available and step up for my team, so yes, I’m embracing it.
When you start, that’s not really what you think about. I’m just here to play football, enjoy it and try and be the best player I can be, try to help my team win and just be myself at the same time. It doesn’t change my values.
If people look up to me, then perfect. If they don’t, then it’s OK. Just staying true to myself is the most important. If the young players want to follow me, they can follow me. I’m here to help them, to support them and they know that.
I’d say enjoy the journey. Give your everything every day and leave the rest to God.
Saka’s humility and focus continue to stand out. From a teenage debutant to one of Arsenal’s most influential figures, the winger’s rise has been built on consistency, hard work, and character. His calm maturity off the pitch now mirrors his composure on it, and both qualities have made him one of the Gunners’ true leaders.
Arsenal via their official X handle posted the full interview on Bukayo saka who reflected on a lot of things including becoming a leader, last season’s growth and his milestone moments as a gunner, They posted;
As Arsenal chase success across multiple fronts this season, Saka’s return to top form could prove decisive. And if his words are anything to go by, the best of Bukayo Saka might still be yet to come.
