The Arsenal kid wonder has received accolades for his performances this season for the Gunners, but he remains coy over which country he’ll be pursuing an international career with
England youth international Bukayo Saka admits it’s a tough choice having to pick between the Super Eagles and the Three Lions, insisting that he’d rather focus on his football than make that decision presently.
Saka has represented England up to the under-19 level, and the versatile winger was a member of the young Lions team that made it to the semifinals of the 2018 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.
He is, however, still eligible to feature for Nigeria, the country of birth of his parents.
And after a breakthrough season at the Emirates Stadium that has seen him score four goals and make 11 assists in 38 games, the three-time African champions have reportedly kick-started moves to have the 18-year-old become a part of coach Gernot Rohr’s plans.
But Saka, while speaking to Sky Sports News, revealed that it might be difficult deciding at the moment.
“It’s a tough choice,” Saka said.
“I’m happy to have represented England at youth level, but I’m also proud of my Nigerian heritage from my parents.
“We haven’t been picked by any team so it’s about staying humble, and when the time comes, we’ll make the decision.”
Ahead of next season, Saka was recently handed Arsenal’s jersey No 7, a reward for his hard work and brilliant performances, and a show of trust from manager Mikel Arteta.
That shirt was previously worn by Gunners legends Robert Pires, Tomas Rosicky, and David Rocastle, and the youngster is delighted to follow in the footsteps of such club icons.
“I was so excited to get it. It’s stuff you dream of and to think of the legends who have had it is such an honour,” he said.
“I liked the number growing up because some of the best players in the world have worn it.
“It shows how much confidence they have in me, and I want to repay their faith and hopefully can write my own history in that shirt.”
