Bukayo Saka recently reunited with his first grassroots football coach, Colin Nixon, ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace. The 23-year-old winger, who has become a key player for the Gunners, reflected on Nixon’s influence during their heartwarming meeting as part of the Chase Football Coaching Programme.

Nixon first spotted Saka’s talent when he was just six years old, playing for local club Greenford Celtic. During their catch-up, Saka shared that his parents still inquire about Nixon, highlighting the lasting connection between them. The coach even put Saka through some old training drills, joking, “He’s still got it.”

Saka expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s an honor to link up with Colin again… it’s really nice to see a familiar face from where I started this whole journey.” Nixon reciprocated the sentiment, recalling the pride he felt when Saka made his England debut.

Among Saka’s cherished memorabilia is his old Greenford Celtic shirt, which he displays at home as a reminder of his roots. He emphasized the positive impact coaches have on young players, noting, “Coaches have a really big impact… if they create the right environment.”

Having risen through Arsenal’s youth ranks, Saka made his senior debut in 2018. As he prepares for his 250th appearance for the club—where he has contributed 67 goals and 63 assists—Saka reflected on the swift progression of his career. He reminisced about the 17 years since he began training with Nixon, acknowledging how pivotal those early experiences were in shaping his path.

Saka concluded by recognizing the vital role that coaches like Nixon play in fostering talent in local communities, emphasizing their importance in providing opportunities and positive experiences for young athletes.