Thierry Henry - Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has revealed Bukayo Saka as his favourite current Arsenal player, praising the young winger’s incredible growth at the Emirates Stadium. The French icon, who was instrumental during his time with the Gunners, described Saka as a crucial asset for both club and country.
Saka has been in sensational form this season, scoring seven goals and providing 11 assists in 20 appearances across all competitions. Since making his senior debut in 2018, the 23-year-old has blossomed under Mikel Arteta, cementing his place as one of the Premier League’s standout performers.
Henry, who won two league titles and was part of Arsenal’s iconic Invincibles squad, expressed his admiration for Saka in an interview with BBC Sport. Reflecting on Saka’s journey from academy prospect to world-class winger, Henry revealed his deep respect for the player’s work ethic and progression.
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“At the time when I was [coaching] in the academy, people were talking a lot about Chris Willock, Reiss Nelson, and Donyell Malen. Bukayo was good, but he wasn’t the talk of the academy. That’s why I have mad respect for him. I have a soft spot for Bukayo, and he’s my favourite player—he’s been there for a long time.”
Bukayo Saka Champions League MOTM
Bukayo Saka with his Champions League Man of the Match award against Sporting Lisbon (Image credit: Getty Images)
Saka has also stepped into a leadership role this season, wearing the captain’s armband in Martin Ødegaard’s absence. His humility, loyalty to the club, and undeniable talent have made him a fan favourite at the Emirates.
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Thierry Henry also highlighted Saka’s evolution on the pitch. “When he started, he was playing wing-back, on the left, on the right. The evolution of his game is outstanding—goals, assists, taking penalties. I challenged him the other day: ‘You need to take free-kicks now,’ because he’s got to work on that.”
Under Arteta, Arsenal have transformed into genuine title challengers, with Saka playing a pivotal role. Combining game intelligence, quick feet, and clinical finishing, he has established himself as one of football’s best wingers.
Saka is following in Henry’s footsteps, emerging as a global superstar for the Gunners and becoming a symbol of Arsenal’s resurgence.
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