As Arsenal continue their push to challenge Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League, one of their standout players, 23-year-old Bukayo Saka, has openly expressed his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo.
In a recent Amazon Prime Video Sport segment where he answered quickfire questions, the English winger didn’t hesitate to name Ronaldo as his favorite player growing up.
This isn’t the first time Saka has spoken highly of Ronaldo. In an interview with Adam Talks, Saka shared his excitement about being handed the No. 7 jersey, just like his childhood idol.
“Cristiano Ronaldo was my idol growing up. He wore—still wears—the number 7. He’s CR7,” Saka said. “It was a dream come true for me to be given the number 7, and I’m trying to achieve some of the things he’s done, especially for my club.”
The ‘Play Safe’ Premier League captain’s armband, seen worn on the arm of Bukayo Saka of Arsenal. Julian Finney/Getty Images
He continued, “With the 7, I’m going to try to accomplish big things with this club because they showed a lot of faith in me by giving me that number, considering all the legends who’ve worn it before me.”
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Back in 2017, legendary French manager Zinedine Zidane, while coaching Real Madrid, lavished praise on Ronaldo after the Portuguese star secured another Ballon d’Or, edging out Lionel Messi in one of soccer’s most heated rivalries.
“Cristiano is the greatest player in the history of football. Many players have made history, but what he has achieved, no one else has done. The numbers speak for themselves, it’s truly remarkable,” said Zidane.
