In a story gaining major attention across the Premier League, Victor Gyökeres has reportedly turned down the jersey number offered to him by Arsenal following his recent high-profile transfer to the club. The rejection has sparked internal discussions and hints at deeper issues behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium.
During a press conference earlier today, Gyökeres left many surprised when he revealed that he had refused the shirt number initially given to him by the Arsenal management.
The Swedish international, who is expected to be a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s plans this season, explained that his preferred number holds a personal significance that goes beyond tradition.
> “I have a lot of respect for Arsenal and what the club stands for, but this number has been part of my football story. It’s more than just a number — it symbolizes my ambitions, my journey, and how I see myself on the pitch,” Gyökeres stated.
Although Arsenal officials have yet to publicly disclose which number he wants, sources close to the club reveal that Gyökeres is eyeing the prestigious No. 9 shirt — a number typically worn by the team’s leading goal-scorer.
However, this request has reportedly created friction within the squad, as the current owner of the No. 9 shirt is believed to be unwilling to part with it.
Even though no specific players were named during the press briefing, there’s growing speculation that this disagreement has created a tense atmosphere behind closed doors.
Gyökeres insisted that his stance isn’t meant as a slight to anyone, but rather as a reflection of his confidence and vision for his role at the club.
> “This number is not just fabric to me. It’s a signal of my intention and where I see myself in this team,” the striker added.
In response to the standoff, Arsenal’s hierarchy has attempted to find a compromise. Yesterday, they reportedly offered Gyökeres a different jersey number, but he declined it. A second alternative was presented this morning, but negotiations have still not yielded a final decision.
In light of the ongoing dispute, manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly stepped in, hoping to resolve the situation before it becomes a distraction heading into the new season.
From a broader perspective, this may appear to be a minor issue, but it’s also a window into the dynamics unfolding within the squad. Gyökeres clearly sees himself as the new frontman and wants his shirt number to reflect that status.
The outcome of this situation may signal upcoming changes in the team’s structure, potentially even leading to a change in roles or a departure for the current No. 9.
Among fans, opinions are split. Some admire Gyökeres’ boldness and ambition, while others argue that such an iconic number should be earned through performances rather than requested outright. One supporter wrote on social media:
> “I like the confidence, but this is Arsenal. That No. 9 shirt has to be earned, not demanded.”
As the start of the Premier League season draws nearer, all eyes will be on the club’s official squad list — and more specifically, on which player ultimately wears that iconic No. 9 shirt when Arsenal step onto the pitch.
