Viktor Gyökeres Proud to Wear Arsenal’s Iconic No.14 Shirt After Ending Goal Drought
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres has expressed pride in wearing the club’s legendary number 14 shirt, following his stunning performance in the 4–0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.
Speaking to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry — the most iconic figure to ever wear the number — on CBS Sports, Gyökeres reflected on the joy of finally breaking his nine-game goal drought with a well-taken brace at the Emirates Stadium.
The first half ended goalless, but Arsenal came alive after the break. Gabriel Magalhães opened the scoring in the 57th minute before Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead. Gyökeres then sealed the night with two quick goals, sending the home crowd into raptures.
“It feels great, to be honest. There’s a lot of goals in this shirt. It feels amazing,” Gyökeres said.
“To be honest, there weren’t many shirt numbers available, but when 14 was there, it was a big honour. We want to win trophies — that’s our desire — and of course, I want to contribute and score goals.”
The 27-year-old’s comments came after a commanding display that earned him the Player of the Match award, as Arsenal continued their impressive form in Europe under manager Mikel Arteta.
💭 Opinion: Gyökeres and the Spirit of the Number 14 — Arsenal’s Legacy Lives On
There’s something magical about the number 14 at Arsenal. For most fans, it’s more than just a shirt number — it’s a symbol of greatness, artistry, and leadership. From Thierry Henry’s elegance and flair to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s electric pace and finishing, the number 14 carries a legacy that demands excellence.
When Viktor Gyökeres took up the shirt, the expectations were sky-high. And like every striker before him, he quickly felt the weight of history pressing on his shoulders — especially during his nine-game drought. But against Atlético Madrid, that burden finally turned into brilliance.
Gyökeres didn’t just score goals — he played with confidence, aggression, and purpose. His movement, composure, and link-up play showed flashes of what Arsenal have been missing: a true striker who embodies both hard work and finishing instinct.
What makes his post-match comments even more special is the humility behind them. He didn’t boast or over-celebrate. Instead, he acknowledged the honour of wearing Arsenal’s No.14, paying silent respect to Henry — the man who set the gold standard.
If Gyökeres continues in this form, Arsenal may have finally found the next great name to carry that sacred shirt number — and perhaps, the man who will help fire them to long-awaited European glory.
