Bukayo Saka says he “can’t really describe” his feelings of leading Arsenal out as captain for the first time in their 5-0 win over Sheffield United on Saturday and insists he is not worried about burning out from playing too many games.
Saka came through Arsenal’s academy before making his first-team debut under Unai Emery in 2018 and has established himself as a star player under Mikel Arteta.
The winger was rewarded with the captain’s armband on Saturday with Martin Odegaard left out of the starting 11 and says it is one of the best moments of his career so far.
“It was a really special moment for me,” he said.
“To be honest, I can’t really describe how I was feeling when I was walking out.
“I just tried to take in the atmosphere and just realise where I am and where I’ve come from. And then obviously I had to switch my focus to the game and we did, and we got the three points – which is the most important thing at the end of the day.
“I can’t really describe it. I just tried to explain it before, but there is not many ways to describe it.
“Of course, I was really proud, it’s a big honour. I just tried to remember where I came from and
where I am today, and how proud I can be of myself. Then obviously, I switched the focus to the game.”
Saka started 87 Premier League games in a row for Arsenal before missing the clash with Manchester City earlier this season due to injury in a run which stretched back to 2021.
But despite suffering the muscle injury earlier this season which also forced him to withdraw from the England squad, Saka insists he is not worried about playing too many games.
“I think I’m really focused on the next coming games and what I can do for the team. My focus is not really there,” he explained.
“I’m a guy who always wants to be on the pitch, always wants to give my best, and if I’m injured and I have to be forced to be out, then of course I will sit out.
“But as long I’m there and I’m ready to play, I am always going to give my best and tell them that I want
to play.
“Yeah, I think it’s possible. When you look at the top players, they are there every three days and they are winning games for their team.
“So I’m trying to be at that level, and to obviously be at that level I need to push myself. Of course, it’s difficult, but I’m trying to do it and give it my best.”
“When you look at the top players, they are there every three days and they are winning games for their team.
“So I’m trying to be at that level, and to obviously be at that level I need to push myself.
“Of course, it’s difficult, but I’m trying to do it and give it my best.”
