The Gunners forward will become the new No 14 at Emirates next season.
Eddie Nketiah has opened up on his feelings after taking on Thierry Henry’s iconic number 14 shirt.
Following months of speculation over his future, Nketiah finally signed a contract extension at Arsenal last Saturday. A five-year deal will see the 23-year-old continue his career at Emirates, where he came through Arsenal’s academy ranks.
The club also announced Nketiah will wear the Gunners’ number 14 jersey, an iconic shirt that belonged to the club’s all-time top-scorer Thierry Henry.
“I joined the club at the age of 14,” Nketiah told Telegraph. “I wore 14 on loan at Leeds, and I even lived at No 14 at one point.
“When the opportunity came up to take it, it was hard to say no. I know what it means to the club and the fans. It’s a nice feeling, an iconic number.”
He added: “We know it is a special shirt and Thierry has made it cool to wear this shirt, just like he did with long socks and gloves.
“It is what we have grown up with. But I am just trying to be the best version of myself.
“I’m focused on creating my own memories in that shirt, leaving my own stamp on it.
“You still have to deliver. There is always going to be pressure, whether you are wearing number 30, or 14, or whatever, because that is what comes with playing for Arsenal.”
Nketiah’s new deal comes after a string of crucial contract extensions with Arsenal’s youngsters.
Last season, Emile Smith-Rowe and Bukayo Saka committed to long-term deals at Emirates, planning to continue their crucial role in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
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