The long wait is over and Viktor Gyokeres is officially an Arsenal player. After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal have completed the signing of the Swedish striker from Sporting CP. He becomes the club’s marquee forward signing ahead of the 2025/26 season. However, there’s already a surprise twist. Viktor Gyokeres has not received his preferred Jersey number, which he wore at Sporting. Instead, he’s been handed a backup jersey option for his debut campaign in London.
Fans are thrilled about the signing. But many noticed the number on his kit during training didn’t match his usual identity. Here’s everything you need to know.
Viktor Gyokeres Arsenal Transfer Details-
Arsenal have signed Viktor Gyokeres in a deal worth around £86 million, including performance-related add-ons. He was Mikel Arteta’s top target to lead the line. After scoring 43 goals in all competitions last season for Sporting, Gyokeres was one of Europe’s most in-demand forwards.
According to Top Journalists in Europe, Arsenal had competition from Chelsea and PSG to sign the striker. However, they won the deal and signed him. He has now signed a five-year contract with the Gunners which will end in 2030. His signing is expected to improve the team and help Arsenal to the next level in their matches and title chase.
Sporting’s manager said: “Viktor gave everything to us. Arsenal are getting a complete forward. We wish him the best.”
Sources close to Arsenal have said that Arteta feels : “Viktor brings power, work rate, and goals. He’s the profile we wanted, and we’re delighted to welcome him.”
Viktor Gyokeres Jersey Twist- Arsenal Deny Favourite Number
There were some talking subjects and one of those was Gyokeres unveiling his shirt number. At Sporting CP, he wore #9 jersey, which is a classic striker’s number. Also, it was his personal favourite jersey number. However, at Arsenal, #9 jersey is currently used by Gabriel Jesus. Jesus has not left the club or changed his jersey numbers. Because of that, Viktor Gyokeres has had to settle for an alternative jersey. Arsenal have officially assigned him the #14 jersey for the 2025/26 season.
Although it is not his preferred choice, Gyokeres accepted the decision respectfully. As per sources, He did not request Gabriel Jesus to give up the number, choosing to “earn his legacy” with a new one. Fans will now see “Gyokeres 14” on shirts across the Emirates and Arsenal official online store.
What It Means for Arsenal And Gyokeres?
For Arsenal: the arrival of Gyokeres means serious firepower up front. They struggled with finishing in tight games last season, and the Sweden Striker offers directness, aerial ability, and consistent goal threat. His presence could free up Kai Havertz or push Gabriel Jesus into wider or deeper roles.
For Gyokeres: Wearing a new number might be like a new fresh chapter, a clean slate. In this case, He is known for his strong top level mentality and also his team first attitude. Fans will be watching to see how quickly he adapts and whether he can challenge for that #9 shirt in the future.
As for Gabriel Jesus, this move adds pressure. The Brazilian must now prove he deserves to keep his place and his number. Competition could bring the best out of both the player.
Conclusion
Viktor Gyokeres is now officially become an Arsenal player. He won’t wear his beloved #9 shirt, but has taken #14 instead. This signing will improve and solidify Arsenal’s squad. Also, It shows their serious plans before next season. The striker from Sporting CP brings many goals, good work ethic, and a winning mentality. Thus, Even without his favourite jersey number he is ready to write a new chapter in red and white jersey of the Gunners.
Author’s Opinion
Arsenal needed a true striker, and Viktor Gyokeres is exactly that. The price tag is high, but his form at Sporting shows it may be worth it. While the shirt number might seem like a small issue, it shows Gyokeres’s humility. He didn’t demand his favourite number but he accepted what was available and focused on football. That says a lot about his character.
Arsenal fans should be excited. This isn’t just another signing but it is a statement of intentions. He with his #14 number on his jersey can be the one to help Arsenal to win the Premier League title. He has the power, pace, and finishing ability to make a difference from day one.
It will be interesting to see how this signing will work out. Will he continue his form at Arsenal? What’s next for Gabriel Jesus?
Share your opinion in the comments below…
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