Amidst a trying period that has seen Arsenal’s once-commanding lead in the Premier League title race dwindle, star winger Bukayo Saka remains resolute. The 23-year-old England international insists that the Gunners’ belief in their ability to capture a first league title since 2004 is “not delusional,” even after a dispiriting 1-0 defeat to Newcastle saw them slip to fifth in the table.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s midweek Champions League clash with Inter Milan, Saka struck a defiant tone. “For me, I always live by the quote, ‘It’s not what you see, it’s what you believe,'” he remarked. “If you look at our squad, the quality we have, the players we have… I don’t think I’ve lost any belief. I don’t think anyone in the changing room has either.”
Resisting the Urge to Overreact
Saka, who has worn the captain’s armband in the absence of regular skipper Martin Ødegaard, also emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective amidst the club’s recent struggles. Arsenal have won just two of their last five Premier League matches, allowing Manchester City and a resurgent Liverpool to close the gap at the summit.
“I think it’s important not to overreact,” Saka noted. “Obviously, there’s a lot of noise around the club… But at the same time, I think it’s important to stay calm.” The winger suggested that an even-keeled approach would serve the team best as they navigate a congested fixture list that includes both domestic and European commitments.
Leading by Example
As one of Arsenal’s most influential players, Saka recognizes the role he can play in steadying the ship. “I’m just doing my best to help the team in every way I can,” he affirmed. “And if I need to [address the group], I’ll do that for sure.”
It’s a level of maturity that belies Saka’s relative youth, and one that will be crucial if Arsenal are to rebound from their recent setbacks. With a daunting trip to the San Siro looming and a potential title-decider against Manchester City on the horizon, the Gunners will need their young star to continue leading by example – both on and off the pitch.
Keeping the Faith
For Saka and his teammates, maintaining belief in the face of adversity could make all the difference as they enter the final stretch of the season. “At the same time, it’s important to not be delusional,” the winger acknowledged. “And in this case, I don’t think it’s delusional to believe.”
It’s a message that will resonate with the Arsenal faithful, who have waited nearly two decades to see their club return to the summit of English football. With Saka leading the charge, the Gunners will be hoping to prove that their title aspirations are anything but a delusion.
