Arsenal’s wonder kid, Bukayo Saka, is in a dilemma over the country he would play for, following his sterling performances in the 2019/20 season English Premier League, which has drawn the attention of both England and Nigeria.
Saka, born in Ealing, Greater London, represented England at the under-16, 17, 18, and under-19 levels and was rewarded a professional contract by Arsenal FC when he turned 17 years old and was promoted to the club’s under-23 team.
England’s coach, Gareth Southgate had expressed interest in Saka and two other upcoming youngsters, Manchester United’s Mason Greenwood and Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, after their exploits during the season.
Saka, whose parents country, Nigeria, had shown interest through the Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick, who had hoped he featured for the Super Eagles in the nearest future after describing him like a goldfish with no hiding place.
Still, to receive a call-up from either England or Nigeria, Saka stated that his resolution would require careful thought with family members at the right time.
“It’s a tough choice. 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,” he said, adding that the other youngsters on England’s list are excellent players also.
“Greenwood and Bellingham have so much quality. Whether they are 18 or 28 or 38 they’ve got quality and when you’ve got quality you’re going to be in the team, provided you can apply the right attitude.
“I feel the age isn’t really a factor because they’ve got maturity and quality beyond their years. That’s why they’re being trusted I believe.
“Being young and at a big club, if you are in the team over an experienced professional, the manager is basically telling you without speaking, that I believe in you,” Saka stated.
