Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is currently one of the best young soccer stars in the world. Known for his speed, versatility, and technical adeptness, Saka has already become one of the most important players in Arsenal‘s squad. However, in this article, we will take a look at the 21-year-old star’s religion and ethnic roots.
Although Bukayo Saka was born and raised in London, England, his roots can be traced back to Nigeria. Saka’s father, Yomi Saka, and mother, Adenike Saka, have Nigerian roots. Although Yomi Saka was born in the United Kingdom, Saka’s maternal grandfather hailed from Lagos, a city in Nigeria. Moreover, the Arsenal star’s name, ‘Bukayo’, which means ‘adds to happiness’, is a popular name in the Yoruba tribe of southwest Nigeria.
He also recently visited Lagos, where he was warmly welcomed by the state’s governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. While Saka did have the opportunity to represent the Nigerian national team, he chose England over the Super Eagles. However, in an interview with Sky Sports, the England international explained why he made that decision. Saka explained that, although he chose England, he’s extremely proud of his Nigerian heritage.
Bukayo Saka: “Choosing Nigeria over England would of been a tough decision. My whole family has been in England like forever, it would be very strange for me to adapt to an environment that I had never been at since growing up. When I grew up all my documents stated that I am… pic.twitter.com/NOaDv4nqpP
— Frank Khalid OBE (@FrankKhalidUK) June 8, 2023
Speaking about his decision to choose England, he said, “I’ve seen the process of how England are transforming and I think in the future they’re going to do great stuff. I feel like it was right for me to choose England.” Saka, who made his England debut back in October 2020, has now become a regular in the team. He has 11 goals in 28 appearances and has been a runner-up with England in Euro 2020.
Bukayo Saka’s religious faith
Bukayo Saka is an out-and-out practicing Christian, as revealed by the Men’s PFA Young Player of the Year (2022-23) himself. Saka was born into a Christian household and had his religious beliefs instilled in him from a very young age. His religious faith has played a significant role in his life, which Saka discussed during a press conference before the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Absolutely love this from the brilliant @BukayoSaka87. Reading his Bible everyday at the World Cup, keeping his eyes fixed on the Lord & maintaining the most amazing perspective under such pressure to perform on a football pitch pic.twitter.com/RH4FowIGbm
— Gavin Calver (@GavCalver) December 6, 2022
Heading into his first World Cup at just 21 years of age, Bukayo Saka revealed that religion has helped him become more grounded. He revealed that he read the Bible every night during the tournament, a practice he also does at home. He said, “For me, it’s really important to have the presence of God in me all the time. It gives me more confidence that God’s plan is perfect so I can go on the pitch and know that God has my back.“
Saka also said that reading the Bible has helped him calm his nerves and quiet his anxiety. The player revealed that by putting his faith in God, he doesn’t get anxious about the outcomes or nervous about what will happen. Saka’s religious practices were duly rewarded, as he scored three goals and provided one assist in the World Cup. Unfortunately for Saka, England was knocked out by France in the quarterfinals.