Saka Misses Former Arsenal Teammates but Predicts Success for Them in Premier League

Bukayo Saka has expressed his nostalgia for former Arsenal teammates Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Reiss Nelson, who departed the club this summer.

Despite the personal loss, Saka remains confident that the trio will excel in their new Premier League roles.

Smith Rowe and Nelson moved to Fulham in a club-record £27m deal, while Nketiah joined Crystal Palace for £30m on transfer deadline day.

Reflecting on their departures, Saka admitted on the Men in Blazers podcast that seeing them leave was difficult. He praised their quality and expressed optimism about their future success.

“It’s not easy to see them go,” Saka said. “They were like big brothers to me when I joined the first team.

But I’m happy for them; they’re top players, and I’m sure they will shine this season.”

Amidst these departures, Saka is encouraged by the arrival of Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling, who joined Arsenal on a season-long loan after being sidelined at Stamford Bridge.

Saka, who has played with Sterling for England, is excited about the impact Sterling could have.

“We’re happy to have him here,” Saka noted. “I’ve seen his quality up close, and I hope he can bring his special qualities to help us succeed.”

Arsenal, having finished as Premier League runners-up for the past two seasons, have started the 2024-25 campaign strongly, collecting 10 points from their first four matches. They will kick off their Champions League campaign against Atalanta on Thursday before facing Premier League champions Manchester City over the weekend.