Arsenal looked back to their best as they thrashed Sheffield United yesterday, and in the absence of Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka wore the captain’s armband.
It was the first time that Saka had worn the armband from the start of a game, and it was a special moment for the player, his teammates and the fans.
Saka is perhaps Arsenal’s most popular player and is one of the best-ever graduates from the Hale End academy. For him to be captaining the side in the Premier League at 22, is a testament to what he means to the club.
Saka opens up on Arsenal captaincy
Saka has now spoken to club media about what wearing the famous armband has meant to him following the victory.
“I don’t really know how to describe it. You know me and you know where I’ve come from: the academy,” he stated.
“To be at the front, leading the boys out today was just unbelievable. I’m lost for words – it’s hard to describe this feeling. It’s just amazing. I enjoyed it. It was a different experience,”
Saka’s leadership qualities
Beyond Odegaard, Declan Rice, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus, Saka has not often been highlighted as a leader or captain within the squad, despite his status at the club.
However, the winger definitely has the potential to wear the armband in the future. As one of the longest-serving players in the starting XI, as well as the player with the greatest connection to the club’s history and fanbase, Saka has the leadership qualities to represent the club as captain.
As a player, he has never shied from responsibility and has been both the shining light in a poor side, as well as a superstar in a thriving team.
It was an amazing moment for him to lead the team talk on the pitch prior to kick-off, and it is unlikely to be the last time he is handed such an opportunity.
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