​Bukayo Saka has revealed that he has been managed “in the best way possible” during this World Cup, emphasizing that the process has allowed him to return to peak form after entering the tournament still dealing with an Achilles issue. The Arsenal winger started only one of England’s first four matches, but he was recalled to the starting lineup for the round of 16 victory over Mexico, where he provided the assist for Jude Bellingham’s opening goal. Now, Saka insists he’s feeling back to his usual self and ready to contribute as England press toward potential glory in Qatar.
“Of course, I would have loved to come to this tournament 100 percent, but that wasn’t the case and everyone’s realised that,” Saka said. “They’ve managed me in the best way possible. But right now, I’m feeling great and I’m ready to go.” He added that his mindset remains consistent regardless of whether he starts or comes off the bench. “Each game has been unique for me, but my mindset doesn’t really change much. Whether I come on or I start, I just try and do what the game needs, whether it needs a goal, whether it needs the team to defend, whatever it needs. It’s about winning. That’s my mindset.”
As England prepare for a quarter-final clash with Norway, Saka will face a familiar opponent in club teammate Martin Odegaard. Asked about his conversations with Odegaard ahead of the match, Saka replied, “Briefly, but of course we’re both focused on doing the best for our countries. Everyone knows how much quality Martin has and what he can bring to the game. It’s important not to focus only on him because Norway as a team have been good this World Cup and we need to be prepared for the team as a whole and not just him.”
Saka also took a moment to commend Mikel Merino, who scored the winner for Spain in their tie with Portugal after a challenging few months shaped by injuries. “Amazing goal,” Saka said. “Very happy for him because I’ve seen the stuff behind the scenes, how hard he’s worked to get here. I don’t think he should be at the World Cup with the injury he got but he made himself get here so very proud of him and congratulations to him.”
Looking ahead, the England star’s focus remains fixed on contributing to the squad’s progress in the tournament. He has demonstrated resilience in recovering from an Achilles issue, and his performances since being restored to the starting lineup highlight his determination to help England advance. As the team edges closer to the knockout rounds, Saka’s blend of versatility, work rate, and late-game impact could prove pivotal as England chase a deep run in the competition. His experiences this season—balancing club and country duties, managing niggling injuries, and maintaining peak performance—illustrate the modern footballer’s challenge of sustaining form across a demanding schedule, and Saka has shown that he can meet it head-on.