Arsenal Stars Spread Festive Joy at Great Ormond Street Hospital
On December 24, 2025, Arsenal players Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Magalhães visited the Koala ward at Great Ormond Street Hospital for a Christmas-themed event. They were joined by other squad members in related activities across the hospital.
Saka and the three Gabriels wore red Arsenal Christmas jumpers and carried red sacks of presents as part of the festive celebrations. Five patients undergoing long-term treatment gathered in the physiotherapy room to engage with the visitors, including young Arsenal fan Simon.
Simon’s mother, Fatima Allard, described the visit as memorable, noting Simon’s prolonged hospital history and his recent major operation. During the visit, Simon nutmegged Saka during a penalty kick and performed Martinelli’s celebration.
Other Arsenal players were involved in related activities: Eberechi Eze was pictured bowling with Ethan Nwaneri at the Arsenal Hub, while Mikel Merino participated in a boxing class.
Arsenal has maintained a longstanding relationship with Great Ormond Street Hospital, including funding a lung function unit that was opened in 2012 by Arsène Wenger. The hospital’s pediatric physiotherapy emphasizes ongoing activity, recommending two to three hours of exercise per week post-surgery to promote health and reduce stigma. Danny Bell, a pediatric physiotherapist, provides input on these initiatives.
Leah Williamson, captain of Arsenal Women and the England team, had visited the hospital the previous week as part of the club’s ongoing outreach efforts.
The Christmas event coincided with a midweek period without Premier League fixtures, allowing the players to participate in this special visit.
