Thierry Henry, a legend of Arsenal, has expressed his astonishment at Bukayo Saka’s quick ascent to prominence. Saka is now a crucial member of the North London team.
Saka, who came up through the ranks from the prestigious Hale End academy, is now a key member of the Arsenal first squad. His time with the Gunners began when he was seven years old, and in 2018 he made his first appearance in the first squad.
Saka has garnered the attention of many, including Henry, who acknowledged undervaluing the young potential with his upward of 230 appearances and 60 goals for Arsenal’s senior squad, not to mention winning the FA Cup and earning a berth in the England national team.
Henry recalled this while appearing on CBS Sports: “To be honest with you, when I saw him at the academy, I didn’t think he would be that good. However, you have a strong work ethic and supportive family because, as far as I’m aware, the family’s member is intelligent and productive.
“As he is currently at a difficult level to reach, I truly witnessed a player reach his level. If my memory serves me well, he has been there for about three years.”
Henry went on to discuss Saka’s excellent performance on the field, saying, “They are asking him to play wingback at the European Championship (with England), and he plays wingback.”
“He goes and protects for his right-back, taking risks and not grumbling as he runs wide, left, and behind. He participates in every game.”
“He participated in the Carabao Cup and immediately participated in the FA Cup first round following the World Cup. A full-back’s dream would be to have a player like him in front of them; he makes everyone’s job simpler by going on the counter and defending in that manner.”
Saka, 23, scored 20 goals in all competitions and contributed 14 assists in his most productive season in front of goal last year. With two goals and five assists so far this season, the England international has had an incredible start.
His most recent goal came in the Champions League triumph over PSG. And he’ll be motivated to continue his good play in the next Premier League match at the Emirates against Southampton.
Saka expressed cautious optimism prior to the game over Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League: “I don’t want to put too much pressure on us, but I do think this is the year.”
“Yes, hopefully this will be the year. We have been close for the past two years and are coming closer. I’m quite hungry right now. We have finished runners-up in the past, but I have a strong desire to win this season and a great deal of self-confidence.”
READ MORE: https://sportip.co.uk