LONDON – Bukayo Saka is a superstar for Arsenal and England and the 24-year-old will clearly lead the Gunners in trophy contention this season.
In recent weeks, Saka has been the go-to player when Arsenal have needed someone to step up, as his incredible ability on the ball and incredible consistency have been crucial to the Gunners for some time.
Editor’s Note: Bukayo Saka spoke to NBC Sports about a range of topics while launching his own boots at a New Balance event in north London, Furon 7egacywhich he designs and wears himself.
Saka emerges as Arsenal’s leader
Quiet, humble and always striving to improve, Saka is the perfect example for the rest of the Arsenal squad to follow.
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The winger admits that goals and assists remain “crucial” and “very important” to his game, but he is also delighted to be taking on a leadership role this season, with Arsenal’s vice-captain regularly wearing the captain’s armband.
“Obviously, it’s a responsibility that I’m growing into and one that I embrace. I’m enjoying it,” Sacca explained. “Obviously coming from the academy it’s been a good evolution and I’m enjoying it, game by game and trying to help my team in any way possible.”
Asked if his current form was the best of his career, Saka said no. “No. I wouldn’t say that. I’m my biggest critic, so I would say no,” Saka said with a smile. But where does he want to improve?
“Added to every part of my game,” Sacca said. “I don’t really have anything too specific. It’s just general improvement every year so I can become a better player.”
What’s been the key to his evolution over the years?
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“Nothing critical. It’s just a natural evolution of my game. On and off the pitch,” Saka said. “I think my faith has helped me the most. My faith in God. Trust in the plan. I give my best every day and leave the rest to Him. That’s how I live my life.”
Saka talks Arsenal’s title hopes and their progress this season
Life has been pretty good for Saka and Arsenal this season.
Asked about the Gunners being top of both the Premier League and Champions League, he admitted they are in a good position but, like Saka, they certainly won’t get carried away.
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“Yes, we are in a good position now,” Sacca said. “But it’s still December, so we’re going to take it one game at a time. I know it sounds boring, but it’s the only way I think.”
Most people say Arsenal have improved and gotten better this season, something is different. Will Sarkar agree?
“That’s not my opinion, that’s the people’s opinion,” Sarkar said with a smile. “I think we are a bigger team, we have added more quality and we have played well so far. But we will take it one game at a time. We are still only in December and will deal with every challenge.”
Asked whether the increased intensity has been the biggest difference for Arsenal this season, Saka admitted it might be so, knowing that the most intense period of the season is coming over the festive period.
“It’s always December, there’s a set schedule and Christmas and the number of games we have. Most years it’s similar. We’re trying to end the period on a good note,” Saka said.
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Inspiring the next generation
Saka admits that he has always wanted to design his own boots and these particular boots are very personal. The sneakers are printed with his name, the famous number 7 jersey, the logo and several symbols that are important to him and tell the story of his life.
“I’ve been working on this boot for a while,” Sarkar said. “It’s in my favorite color and it’s the perfect match for me. There are some different details in there that tell the story of my life, and New Balance obviously allowed me to be creative and put whatever I wanted in there. I’m happy with the results and I think they look good.”
He also enjoys seeing young players wearing and enjoying his shoes, as he aims to inspire the next generation to follow in his footsteps.
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“For me, it’s great. I’ve been in their shoes. I know how they feel. It makes me happy that they want to wear the boots and they’re enjoying it,” Saka said with a smile.
Saka has become a leader both on and off the pitch. He’s only 24, but his actions are inspiring his team and young talent to reach his heights.
