Oscar-winning actor and Arsenal supporter Daniel Kaluuya believes Bukayo Saka does not receive sufficient recognition for his contribution to the Gunners.
Speaking on the latest edition of Men in Blazers, Kaluuya praised the England international’s intelligence, effectiveness and development into one of Arsenal’s most influential players.
The 37-year-old was particularly enthusiastic when discussing Saka’s connection to the club and his emergence through the Hale End academy.
“It’s a Hale End boy, bro. That’s our boy, bro. That’s our son,” Kaluuya said.
However, the actor suggested that the winger’s consistency and overall influence are sometimes overlooked because his performances do not always produce spectacular highlights.
“He doesn’t really get the respect I feel he deserves,” Kaluuya explained.
He argued that supporters often prioritise entertainment over the less obvious qualities that make players effective, highlighting Saka’s decision-making and combination play.
Kaluuya also revealed that he would choose to portray Saka if a film were made about Arsenal.
“I’ll play Saka,” he declared, describing the pressure of carrying the team before developing into its leading figure as a compelling story.
The comments arrive during another challenging period for Saka, who faces a potentially lengthy absence after sustaining a quadriceps injury against Bayern Munich.
Arsenal are awaiting further specialist assessments, with early concerns suggesting that the 25-year-old could miss between six and eight weeks.
Kaluuya also reserved considerable praise for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, describing the Spaniard as an inspirational figure whose commitment has transformed the club.
“He’s an obsessive. He’s a wonderful madman. He’s a man-motivator. He’s a leader,” the actor said.
Kaluuya believes Arteta’s willingness to question himself has contributed to his development as a manager despite the criticism he previously faced.
He suggested that the Spaniard continually asks whether he is capable of leading Arsenal to greater success and responds by improving his approach.
The actor also recalled Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final victory over Real Madrid in April 2025 as a defining moment in his belief in the team.
Arsenal won the first leg 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium before securing a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Kaluuya highlighted how Arteta’s team overcame attacking injuries, with midfielder Mikel Merino deployed as a makeshift striker.
For the lifelong supporter, that performance demonstrated the resilience and tactical adaptability behind Arsenal’s subsequent progress.
His admiration for Saka and Arteta reflects his belief that both have played central roles in changing the club’s fortunes.