Despite the pain of losing at home to Manchester United, Bukayo Saka stressed that this is a moment for the team to prove Arsenal's identity and fighting spirit.
On 26 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Bukayo Saka, Arsenal's key winger, urged his teammates to show the "team's character" after the Gunners suffered their first home defeat of the season, losing 2-3 to Manchester United at Emirates Stadium.
This was only their third loss in 35 games across all competitions this season, and Saka admitted that the result was hard to swallow.
"I think we didn’t play at our best level throughout the game, and it was very frustrating," Saka said after the match.
"This was a big, meaningful game, and Emirates has been a fortress for us all season."
"It's a tough defeat to accept, but we have to stand together. We'll come back next week and try to get back on the winning path."
The England international also spoke about the importance of response after conceding goals in football.
"In football, you have chances to score and concede. What's important is how you respond afterward. Of course, we wanted to lead 2-0, but we couldn’t, and overall, we’re still not satisfied with our performance."
However, Arsenal has little time to dwell on the result as they have a UEFA Champions League match midweek and a Premier League away game against Leeds United next weekend.
Saka emphasized that showing team character is key.
"The season's journey isn’t always smooth. There are ups and downs, and it’s up to us to show character next week."
"Now, we can't change the past results. The only thing we can do is look forward and focus on the next game."