Bukayo Saka has opened up about how his first major injury layoff helped him grow both mentally and personally. The 23-year-old Arsenal star was sidelined for three months with a torn hamstring, a setback that significantly impacted both his season and his team.
Looking back, Saka says the injury, which required surgery on Christmas Eve, was tough but ultimately helped him gain a “more balanced head” on football and life. The downtime allowed him to spend more time with his family, focus on his diet, and bond with his new puppy, Tucker the cockapoo.
The surgery, which he decided on the spot due to the Christmas timing, was a difficult but necessary step. He describes the experience of spending Christmas Day with crutches and a brace, but says it wasn’t the worst thing as he found new ways to appreciate the small moments.
Saka’s recovery went smoothly, and as he returned to action, his performances in high-profile Champions League matches against Real Madrid and PSG proved that he was back at his best. His decision to undergo surgery quickly after tearing his hamstring in December proved to be the right one.
Saka also found time to read during his rehab, picking up Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now. The book’s focus on living in the moment and not dwelling on past regrets or future worries resonated deeply with him. “What’s necessary right now?” became a guiding question in his recovery and life.
As Arsenal prepares for next season, Saka is focused on helping his team improve and grow. While he wasn’t satisfied with last season’s finish, he’s determined to be the best version of himself and lead his teammates to success.
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