Bukayo Saka, the talented young player for Arsenal, has expressed his feelings about seeing three of his close friends leave the club. Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Reiss Nelson, who all came up through Arsenal’s Hale End academy, departed the club over the summer. While Saka admits that it wasn’t easy to see them go, he believes that they have the quality to shine in the Premier League this season.
Smith Rowe, who made 80 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, joined Fulham in a club-record deal worth £27 million. Nelson, who featured in 24 games for Arsenal last season, followed Smith Rowe to Fulham on a season-long loan deal. Nketiah, who spent almost a decade at Arsenal and scored 38 goals for the club, completed a £30 million move to Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day.
In an interview on the Men in Blazers podcast, Saka revealed that he misses his former teammates and considers them to be like big brothers to him. However, he is also happy for them and believes that they have the quality to succeed in the Premier League. Saka’s positive attitude towards his friends’ departures shows maturity and a supportive mindset.
While Saka was sad to see his friends leave, he was buoyed by the arrival of Raheem Sterling from Chelsea. Sterling joined Arsenal on a season-long loan deal after being exiled by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. Saka expressed his happiness at having Sterling on the team and believes that his special qualities will help Arsenal win.
Arsenal has made a strong start to the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, earning 10 points from four games. The team is also set to begin their Champions League campaign against Atalanta. Saka’s positive outlook and belief in his teammates’ abilities bode well for Arsenal’s future success.
It’s not uncommon for players to feel a sense of loss when their friends and teammates leave a club. However, Saka’s support and belief in his friends’ abilities demonstrate his maturity and understanding of the nature of professional football. It’s important for players to maintain positive relationships and support each other, even when they are no longer playing for the same team.
Saka’s comments also highlight the importance of having a strong support system within a team. The bond between players can have a significant impact on their performance and overall morale. By acknowledging the contributions of his former teammates and expressing his support for them, Saka sets a positive example for other players.
In conclusion, Bukayo Saka’s comments about missing his former Arsenal teammates and his belief in their abilities demonstrate his maturity and support for his friends. While it wasn’t easy for him to see them leave, he remains positive and optimistic about their future success in the Premier League. Saka’s positive attitude and support for his teammates are qualities that contribute to a strong team dynamic and can lead to success on the field.