Bukayo Saka’s life: From best student loved by teachers to England hero at 19

Bukayo Saka, the 19-year-old Arsenal star, showcased his immense talent and maturity on the grandest stage. Since breаking into the Gunners’ team in 2018, Saka has impressed fans not only with his dynamic performances but also with his level-headedness.

Arsenal star Saka was born in West London and rose through the ranks with the Gunners from the age of seven

During the Euros match against Czech Republic, Saka delivered a standout performance that will surely give England manager Gareth Southgate a selection dilemma ahead of the team’s last-16 tie. Born and raised in West London to Nigerian immigrant parents, Saka embodies humility and groundedness, values instilled in him from a young age.

Arsenal nurtured Saka's talent as he rose through the ranks

Saka’s journey began at Arsenal’s Hale End academy, where he joined at the age of seven before officially signing for the club at nine. Despite attracting interest from other clubs like Spurs and Chelsea, Saka’s unwavering loyalty to Arsenal was evident. Coaches compared him to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, but he remained focused and humble, thanks to the guidance of his father.

Saka's former teachers, including Mark Harvey (to his right) and Dipesh Patel (next to Harvey) spoke of Saka's modesty

At Greenford High School, Saka excelled academically and athletically, garnering praise from teachers for his modesty and all-round talent. His former football coach, Dipesh Patel, expressed immense pride in Saka’s rapid rise and highlighted his team-oriented mentality. Arsenal legends, including Freddie Ljungberg and Thierry Henry, recognized Saka’s potential and his commitment to the game.

At Greenford High School Saka's signed England and Arsenal shirts hang on a hallway

Saka made his competitive debut for Arsenal in 2018 and has since become a regular starter and a fan favorite. Despite Arsenal’s challenging season, Saka has consistently shone, earning accolades such as Arsenal’s Player of the Season and the London Football Awards’ Young Player of the Year. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Saka’s intelligence and decision-making abilities on the field.

Modest Saka shows off his darts skills during a media day at St George's Park

Gareth Southgate has also taken notice of Saka’s talents, granting him five starts for the England national team. Saka has already won the Man of the Match award on three occasions. As England progresses to the last-16 stage, Saka’s impressive performances have undoubtedly strengthened his case for further recognition.

Saka shows off the FA Cup trophy he won with Arsenal in 2020Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has praised Saka's intelligence

In conclusion, Bukayo Saka’s coming-of-age performance at the Euros exemplified his immense talent, maturity, and dedication to the game. He has become a rising star for both Arsenal and the England national team, leaving a lasting impression with his skill, work ethic, and humble demeanor.

Gareth Southgate now has a selection headache after Saka's star-turn against the Czechs

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