Saka and partner announce engagement after private London proposal

Bukayo Saka, one of English football’s brightest stars, and his long-time partner, Tolami Benson, have announced their engagement after what UK media describe as a private and meticulously planned proposal at a top London hotel, Sport360NG reports.

The news marks a major milestone for the couple, who have maintained a largely low-profile relationship despite Saka’s rapid rise to global football prominence.

The announcement was subtly communicated through a social media post captioned “17.11.25,” a date widely interpreted as the moment the pair agreed to commit to a lifelong partnership. While the couple did not share specific details of the proposal, reports indicate that the Arsenal winger presented Tolami with what insiders described as an “enormous” engagement ring, symbolising their intention to take their relationship into a new chapter.

Saka and Tolami, both 24, are believed to have started dating in 2020, though the relationship remained carefully out of the public eye for nearly two years. Their first public appearance together came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they were seen in close company around England team facilities. Even then, the couple maintained a respectful distance from media attention, opting to preserve their privacy during a period in which Saka’s profile was soaring internationally.

Over time, however, Tolami has become a more familiar presence at major tournaments and football events. A graduate of Birmingham City University with a degree in public relations and media, she has often been seen supporting Saka from the stands. Her appearances during the 2024 European Championship further solidified public awareness of their relationship, as the pair were photographed together at various moments throughout the competition.

Despite being in the spotlight, the couple have managed to navigate public interest with a sense of composure and restraint. Their relationship, while occasionally highlighted by fans and media, has largely been characterised by their shared preference for privacy. Both also share Nigerian heritage, a fact that has drawn significant attention and warm reactions from football supporters in Nigeria and the wider African community.

The engagement announcement has sparked widespread congratulations from fans, teammates, and the broader football world, marking a celebratory moment for one of England’s most admired young athletes. As Saka continues to establish himself as a key figure for club and country, the news adds a personal dimension to a year already filled with professional achievements.

With the couple now preparing for the next phase of their lives together, their engagement stands as a testament to a relationship that has matured alongside Saka’s rise on the global stage, balancing public interest with a commitment to keeping their personal lives grounded and dignified.

More pictures from the proposal below: