Bukayo Saka is determined to make this campaign one to savour after finding the net during Arsenal’s opening Premier League match of their title defence against Coventry City.
The England international produced an impressive display against Coventry, looking sharp and energetic throughout.
Saka has dismissed suggestions that Arsenal lack attacking intent after demonstrating what he called attractive football in the victory over Coventry.
The 24-year-old made an early statement for the season ahead by converting Arsenal’s second goal in the comfortable 3-0 triumph.
When questioned about whether supporters should anticipate a more expansive Arsenal side this term, Saka pushed back, expressing his frustration with such characterisation.
He stated it marked an excellent beginning for the squad, highlighting their pleasing style of play and ability to score when needed. He emphasised that different matches require different approaches, whether through set pieces or open play, with winning being the ultimate objective.
Following the World Cup, where Saka managed Achilles discomfort that also plagued him during the closing phases of the previous campaign, manager Mikel Arteta was eager to grant him extended rest.
Impressively, the wideman required just seven complete days away from training before returning to preparations, which explains his excellent condition in matches against Manchester City and Coventry.
He noted that although the World Cup concluded several months prior, he has undertaken significant work since then, focusing on managing his recovery period and avoiding excessive downtime.
Saka revealed he spent a week resting before resuming training, with the goal of arriving back in peak condition for the new season.
His remarkable hat-trick during the dramatic 6-4 third-place play-off victory over France at the World Cup sparked renewed motivation for the new campaign.
This inspired him to maintain intensity throughout pre-season despite his body requiring recuperation.
He acknowledged the World Cup proved challenging, with results falling short of expectations for both himself and the squad, but stressed he had mentally moved past that experience and concentrated on collective preparation.
Arsenal are now benefiting from his attitude and drive, with Saka hell-bent on helping the Gunners retain their Premier League crown.
When questioned about the ambition to repeat last season’s success alongside new arrivals including Christos Tzolis, Bruno Guimaraes and close associate Ezri Konsa, Saka confirmed that represents the shared objective, with the team committed to delivering their utmost efforts.