Gyokeres Wears Henry’s 14 as Arsenal’s New Striker Signs On

‘No Intention’ to Be Compared with Henry – Gyokeres on Arsenal Move

Viktor Gyokeres says he is not trying to follow in the footsteps of Thierry Henry, despite taking the Arsenal legend’s iconic number 14 shirt upon completing a £64m move from Sporting Lisbon.

The 27-year-old Sweden striker becomes Arsenal’s marquee summer signing and is expected to boost their title challenge this season.

“I just want to do my own thing,” Gyokeres said, as he prepares for a potential debut in the friendly clash against Tottenham in Hong Kong.

Taking the Number 14 Shirt

The number 14 shirt is deeply associated with club legend Thierry Henry, who scored 228 goals in 377 games for the Gunners. Gyokeres admitted the choice was more about availability than legacy.

“Of course I know about the history. But there weren’t many numbers to choose from, so it was an easy choice,” he said.

Despite the inevitable comparisons, Gyokeres made it clear he’s not aiming to emulate Henry:

“He was an amazing player, but different from me. I just want to try to do my own thing and show my qualities.”

Arteta: ‘He Felt the Shirt Instantly’

Manager Mikel Arteta backed Gyokeres’ decision to take the iconic number and described the striker as having “conviction” and a natural connection to the club.

“He was already really attached to the club in the way he spoke about its history. When you feel it – go for it,” said Arteta.

Fan Excitement and Shirt Sales Surge

Fan reception to the signing has been electric. Arsenal have reportedly broken replica shirt sales records since announcing the deal.

“It gives you extra motivation,” Gyokeres said. “But I already have high expectations for myself.”

Long Wait Ends, Move Worth It

The deal took weeks to finalize, with Arsenal and Sporting Lisbon negotiating add-ons, and Gyokeres missing training, which led to disciplinary action at Sporting.

“It was a lot of waiting, but I’m finally here. It feels great,” said the striker, who trained alone during the delay.

Why Arsenal?

Gyokeres revealed it wasn’t a hard choice:

“There were other clubs, but this wasn’t a difficult decision. I felt Arsenal really wanted me.”

Big Numbers, Bigger Challenge

Gyokeres scored 97 goals and registered 26 assists in 102 games for Sporting. But he acknowledges the Premier League presents a different challenge.

“It’s a better league. I’ll need to adapt. But if you play in a better team, especially as an attacker, that helps too.”

First Training and Manager’s Instructions

The striker has had just one training session but already knows what Arteta expects.

“He wants me to use my qualities. It’s been feeling great so far, and I’m looking forward to doing more.”