Arsenal’s newly signed center forward Viktor Gyokeres is keen to build his own legacy in North London and avoid potential comparisons with club legends who enjoyed success at the Emirates in years gone by.
Following his controversial arrival from Sporting CP, Arsenal have handed the Sweden international the number 14 shirt, notably donned in the past by legendary Frenchman Thierry Henry.
Henry enjoyed a largely successful eight-year spell at Arsenal, scoring 228 goals in 377 appearances. He also helped the Gunners to two Premier League titles and three FA Cup crowns while clinching four PL Golden Boot awards.
Despite inheriting the legendary Frenchman’s shirt number, Gyokeres has no intention of trying to be like him, instead emphasizing a desire to carve out his own Arsenal legacy.
“Of course, I know about the history,” Gyokeres said.
“To be honest, there weren’t so many numbers available. There weren’t too many to pick from. But, of course, that one was available. So, when I knew that, it was an easy choice to take it.
“I don’t know [if there will be comparisons]. It’s not really my intention to be compared with what he’s achieved in his career.
“Especially here. I just want to do my own thing and show my qualities. Of course, he was an amazing player, but different from me. I just want to try to do my own thing.”
Gyokeres arrives at Arsenal off the back of two unbelievably productive seasons in the Portuguese Primera Liga with Sporting CP. The huge Swede bagged a total of 97 goals in 102 appearances, leading the Lisbon side to consecutive league titles.
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