Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka admits missing former teammates Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Reiss Nelson but predicts success for the trio at Fulham and Crystal Palace.
Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has confessed to missing his former teammates Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Reiss Nelson, who departed the Emirates Stadium over the summer.
Despite the emotional goodbyes, Saka believes the trio has the talent to excel in the Premier League at Fulham and Crystal Palace.
Smith Rowe joined Fulham in a club-record £27m deal after making 80 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, while Nelson followed on a season-long loan.
Nketiah completed a £30m move to Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day, ending his nearly decade-long stint at Arsenal.
Read Also: Transfer Gossip Today: Real Madrid Target Premier League Star Trio
Saka:
“Yeah, I’m not going to lie, I’ve missed them a bit, you know.”
He acknowledged the difficulty of seeing his fellow Hale End academy graduates leave but expressed confidence in their ability to thrive in the Premier League.
‘Since I came into the first-team they were kind of like my big brothers with the way they welcome me and stuff like that.
‘So yeah, it wasn’t easy to see them all go, but at the same time, I’m really happy for them because they’re three top, top players with so much quality and I’m sure they’re going to shine in the Premier League this year.’
While Saka was sad to see several close friends leave Arsenal over the summer, he was buoyed by the arrival of Chelsea and England winger Raheem Sterling.
Sterling joined the Gunners on a season-long loan deal after being exiled by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca and told to leave Stamford Bridge.
‘We’re happy to have him here.’
‘I know the quality he has, I’ve played with him for England and watched him for years.
‘I know Raz really well and hope he can bring his special qualities to the team and help him us win.’
Arsenal, who have finished second in the Premier League for the last two seasons, have made a strong start to the 2024-25 campaign, taking 10 points from four games.
Arteta men will return to the Champions League stage promises excitement, and Atalanta presents a formidable opening test.
