Arsenal star Bukayo Saka left Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems visibly stunned during the debut episode of the club’s new series, Soccernet.ng reports.
The “Link Up,” filmed at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, featured the British-Nigerian forward and Tems in a question-and-answer scene.
The 24-year-old winger’s candid admission that he had never heard of global music icon Celine Dion quickly went viral, with clips of the moment dominating social media feeds.
The episode also featured acclaimed producer GuiltyBeatz, and focused on life off the pitch. Saka and Tems explored how performing in a recording studio mirrors performing on the football field.
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Both stars discussed the pressures, discipline, and inspiration that come with being at the top of their respective industries.
While the conversation covered a wide range of topics, it was a single light-hearted exchange that grabbed the internet’s attention.
Bukayo Saka surprises Tems with his response
During the conversation, Tems reflected on her early musical influences and said, “I loved Celine Dion.” Saka’s response was unexpectedly honest: “I don’t know who that is.” Tems’ shocked reaction — complete with an animated “Oh my gosh!” — was captured on camera and immediately circulated online.
Tems: I loved Celine Dion
Bukayo Saka: I don’t know who that is.
pic.twitter.com/oOMsplNQSZ— Goals Side (@goalsside) March 5, 2026
Although Saka followed up quickly with “Is that bad?”, the clip became an instant talking point, and sparked curiosity about the footballers’ cultural knowledge outside the pitch.
Arsenal’s “The Link Up”
“The Link Up” is part of Arsenal’s growing initiative to link football culture with music, art, and lifestyle. By featuring players like Saka alongside international stars such as Tems, the series depicts the personalities and passions of its players off the field.
The Abbey Road Studios setting added a different tone to the initiative, which made the series more than just football content.
It also sparked speculation about future collaborations between Premier League stars and global music icons.
