Bukayo Saka says Thierry Henry sent him a message of support after the Euros, which meant a huge deal to the youngster.
An incredible year for Bukayo Saka came to a disappointing and public end over the summer, as he, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho missed penalties to lose the Euro 2020 final shootout to Italy.
Despite the initial backlash from racists and trolls, there has since been an outpouring of support for Saka. The young winger reveals that one of the people to send him a supportive message was none other than club legend Thierry Henry.
“He’s a hero to me for what he’s done for my club, what he’s done in football,” Saka said. “He was amazing at football but he’s an amazing person too and that’s probably why he inspires me.
“After the Euros he did message me, he went out of his way to get my number and message me. He told me that I’m actually a hero and that I’ve done so well.
“That meant everything to me, already looking up to him.”
That’s obviously nice to hear from such an important player for the club, and it’s what you want from Arsenal’s club legends. They know the status they have around the club, and they should use that to inspire the next generation as much as they can.
One penalty miss shouldn’t define Saka’s season. At just 19, he won Arsenal’s Player of the Season, he played a crucial role in England even making the final of the Euros, and he’s in the final 20 for the Golden Boy award.
The Hale End academy graduate just needed everyone to remind him of all that. Thankfully, Henry was one of those that did.