Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka says winning the Ballon d’Or is one of his career goals.
The 21-year-old Anglo-Nigerian has been an integral part of the Gunners squad under Mikel Arteta, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists as the North London outfit challenged for the Premier League title but ultimately finished second behind champions Manchester City and return to the UEFA Champions League after a seven-year absence.
Saka has lifted the FA Cup and Community Shield but harbours bigger trophies including the FIFA World Cup with the England national team with whom he has earned 28 caps and scored 11 goals.
“Ultimately, my goal is to win numerous trophies for Arsenal and score pivotal goals,” Saka told France Football. “On the international stage as well, winning the World Cup with England would be monumental. The aspiration of every player, I believe, is to win the Ballon d’Or. But for now, our focus is on collective victories.”
We're back ???? pic.twitter.com/t5Cztah15x
— Bukayo Saka (@BukayoSaka87) August 12, 2023
Despite playing an influential role in the team, Saka says he does see himself as a leader in the team but is rather a collective responsibility of the players.
“I don’t see myself as the leader. Leadership is shared within this squad,” he stated. “Everyone has their role, and I strive to fulfil what’s expected of me, primarily to score and create impactful moments… Returning to the Champions League is the beginning of an exciting chapter. It’s something Arsenal is accustomed to, but for me, it’s going to be truly special. I can’t wait.”
Saka opened his 2023-24 season account with a goal in Arsenal’s 2-1 Premier League win over Nottingham Forest last weekend.
