Bukayo Saka promoted to England leadership group | OneFootball

Bukayo Saka was part of England’s unofficial leadership group at Euro 2024, according to a report.

DUSSELDORF, GERMANY: Bukayo Saka of England celebrates scoring the team’s third penalty in the penalty shoot out during the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final match between England and Switzerland at Düsseldorf Arena on July 06, 2024. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

John Cross of the Mirror reports that Bukayo Saka was introduced into England’s unofficial player leadership group at Euro 2024.

England vice-captain Kyle Walker reportedly confirmed the addition, with Walker joining captain Harry Kane, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Saka in the five-man group.

Cross adds that there’s no suggestion Lee Carsley plans to change the system Gareth Southgate was using, so it seems Saka is set to continue as one of England’s leaders.

BERLIN, GERMANY: Bukayo Saka of England controls the ball whilst under pressure from Marc Cucurella of Spain during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Saka’s popularity among the squad prompted his elevation to the leadership group during the Euros, according to the report. He’s now set to head the next generation of England stars.

The 23-year-old started every game at this summer’s Euros, and he scored a vital quarter-final goal against Switzerland to help England come from behind to win on penalties. The Arsenal man also netted in that shootout.

With 12 goals and seven assists for England in 40 appearances (30 starts), Saka has directly contributed to more goals for his country than anyone in the current squad except Kane.

DUSSELDORF, GERMANY: Bukayo Saka of England scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final match between England and Switzerland at Düsseldorf Arena on July 06, 2024. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Given his popularity off the pitch and his influence on it, it’s no real surprise Saka is starting to take on a leadership role with both club and country.