Arsenal star Bukayo Saka received a warm reception from Super Eagles duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey as he returned from injury during the Gunners' 2-1 win over Fulham at the Emirates.
The heartfelt exchange during warm-up on the sidelines showcased the strong connection between players of Nigerian heritage, even when representing different national teams.
Saka, sidelined for 101 days due to injury, made an immediate impact upon his return, scoring just seven minutes after coming on in the second half.
The England international capitalized on a flicked pass from Gabriel Martinelli to double Arsenal’s advantage, sealing a crucial victory after Mikel Merino’s first-half opener.
Why did Iwobi & Bassey greet Saka so warmly?
Iwobi and Bassey’s warmth toward Saka was more than just a routine exchange.
For the 28-year-old, it was a reunion with a club he once called home. Having come through Arsenal’s youth ranks and spent several seasons with the first team, the Fulham midfielder retains close ties to the club and its players.
Iwobi's familiarity with Saka, who emerged from Arsenal’s academy shortly after his departure, adds to the camaraderie between them.
For Bassey, the bond runs deeper than just club affiliations, it extends to shared Nigerian heritage.
Saka, despite choosing to represent England at the international level, has strong Nigerian roots, and in an alternate timeline could have donned the green and white alongside Iwobi and Italy-born Bassey.
Over the years, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) made several attempts to convince him to commit to the Super Eagles, but the winger ultimately pledged his allegiance to the Three Lions.
Explaining his decision, Saka said, “I feel like I’m really, really proud of my Nigerian heritage. I always still watch Nigeria’s games where I can and I wish them all the best and support them all the way, but 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.”
