Thierry Henry has opened up on the private text exchanges he had with Bukayo Saka ahead of Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid.
Saka netted the decisive goal as the Gunners secured a 2-1 aggregate victory at a thunderous Emirates Stadium. The 24-year-old, who has been managing an Achilles problem, only made his return to action against Fulham on Saturday, netting their second goal before being substituted at the break, as per football.london.
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After striking the vital blow against Atleti, he was hauled off just shy of the 60-minute mark. Following the final whistle, Henry shed light on the private conversations he’s been holding with Saka and how the winger continues to battle with his fitness.
Bukayo Saka scored the sole goal of the night to secure Arsenal a spot in the Final in Budapest -Credit:Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images
Speaking to U.S. broadcaster CBS, Henry said: “I would love to see if we can speak to Bukayo because I want him to explain to people that being a footballer is not always about the glamorous times.
“He’s been questioned all season. Can he be the guy? Is he not the guy? Is he the star boy? Is he not the star boy? Is he better than him or not better than him?
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“Today, he had to play with barely any training. I know he’s suffering with his Achilles tendon. I spoke to him and he came back and was like, ‘I’ve got to be on the pitch. I’ve got to be on the pitch against Fulham. I have to be. It’s do or die.’
“So you have to give those guys a lot of credit. Sometimes we take it for granted. We all played through injuries. We all played with moments where you’re not 100% and he had to do it, deliver it for Arsenal.”
Henry did get to speak with Saka and said: “I know what you went through the whole season, I know what you had to endure, what you were listening to from people.”
“And what you had to do to be on that field, not only today but also against Fulham. Can you explain the pain, physically and mentally, to be able to reach a final?”
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Saka chose not to elaborate but thanked Henry for his support. The Hale End graduate said: “It’s not the moment. I don’t want to say I’m struggling or make people feel sorry for me. As soon as I step onto that pitch, I have to be ready for the critics if I don’t perform.”
“But I’m very happy today. I’ve been speaking to you throughout the season. You’ve been there for me. You know what it’s been like but today’s a very special moment.”
