Bukayo Saka Afrobeats conversation with Tems goes viral as the Arsenal winger names his favourite Nigerian artists
Bukayo Saka, winger for Arsenal FC, has revealed his favourite Afrobeats artists during a conversation with Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems on the club’s new podcast series.
Also read: Davido mourns close friend Denisi in painful loss
Saka and Tems appeared together on the first episode of Arsenal’s newly launched podcast, The Link-Up, where they discussed music, culture and the footballer’s connection to Nigerian sounds.
A moment from the interview quickly went viral after Tems spoke about her early musical inspiration and mentioned legendary Canadian singer Celine Dion.
Saka responded by saying he was not familiar with the singer, a remark that left Tems visibly surprised during the conversation.
Despite the light-hearted exchange, the Arsenal star said he regularly listens to Afrobeats and enjoys several Nigerian artists.
Among the performers Saka highlighted were Tems herself, Davido, Asake, and Burna Boy, describing their music as part of his regular playlist.
The Bukayo Saka Afrobeats conversation also reflected the winger’s strong connection to his Nigerian roots.
Born in England to Nigerian parents, Saka has frequently spoken about his Yoruba heritage.
In 2023, the footballer visited Lagos, where he spent time with family members and connected with fans.
The winger has also used Afrobeats tracks in several social media posts.
The Tems interview serves as the pilot episode of Arsenal’s new original podcast, The Link-Up, available through the club’s recently launched mobile platform, The Arsenal app.
The collaboration highlights Arsenal’s long-standing connection with Nigeria. Several players with Nigerian heritage have played for the club over the years, including Noni Madueke, Ethan Nwaneri, and Eberechi Eze.
Arsenal legend Nwankwo Kanu also remains one of the most celebrated Nigerian figures in the club’s history after playing a key role in the famous Arsenal Invincibles squad that won the Premier League title in 2004 without defeat.
The club has also embraced Nigerian pop culture in recent years.
In 2023, Arsenal used a hit track by Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck while unveiling record signing Declan Rice.
Also read: Davido mourns close friend Denisi in painful loss
As the 2025–2026 season progresses, Saka remains a central figure in Arsenal’s push for major honours, including a long-awaited league title and a first UEFA Champions League triumph.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
