Bukayo Saka says Arsenal are fully committed to chasing the Premier League and Champions League titles this season.
The Gunners have missed the chance to win the Premier League title in recent years, finishing second behind Manchester City in the last two seasons.
Arsenal currently sit third in the table, six points behind the leaders, and remain firmly in the title race heading into the festive period.
After ending a six-year absence from the Champions League last season, Arsenal reached the quarter-finals, and Saka is looking to push the team even further this season.
“We are not afraid,” Saka told BBC Sport.
“In the last two seasons we have competed for the league and come very close. We are also back in the Champions League – we have some experience there now – so we feel ready to compete for every title.
“We really want to take the next step and try to win something.”
Reserve our place in the semi-finals 🎟️
Watch the highlights of tonight's win over Crystal Palace 3-2 📺 pic.twitter.com/U2gc84DuwB
– Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 19, 2024
The last time Arsenal won a major trophy was in 2020, when they lifted the FA Cup.
Saka, who was part of that victorious team, has since suffered numerous failures, including two runner-up finishes in the Premier League and losing in two European Championship finals.
Commenting on these disappointments, Saka said: “It's terrible, I'll be honest. It's just extra fuel for me and extra motivation. I want to get over the line this season and try to lift the trophy for sure.
“You work all season and you're so close – you've got one hand on the cup, you've reached the final, you're there to win the Premier League or whatever title you're competing for.” -And then you don't win it. It's like a whole year's work and nothing to show for it.
“I know you can be proud of the season and the improvement, but that's why we want more than ever to take the next step and win.”
At just 23 years old, Saka has become an indispensable player for both Arsenal and the England national team.
Despite being compared to legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo – one of his childhood stars – Saka insists external recognition is not his focus.
“I feel like I know what I want to achieve in the game, and people will always talk no matter if I do or don't do something,” he explained.
“Even if we win, people will still talk. So my mentality is just: Do what you want and live your life, because people will talk regardless.”
