A Gunners academy graduate has agreed to a lucrative new contract at Emirates Stadium and adopted a legendary shirt number.
The 23-year-old striker is confident he can live up to the expectations that come with playing for the Gunners and taking over the storied No. 14 jersey that was formerly worn by club legend Thierry Henry. Eddie Nketiah has told those who doubt him that Arsenal gave him a new contract “for a reason.”
Nketiah’s previous contract at Emirates Stadium was set to end this summer, making him eligible for free agency. However, he chose to stay and sign new terms through 2027.
Despite 56 appearances over the last two seasons, it has been questioned if he is ready to play a significant role for the Premier League heavyweights. The former England U21 international is keen to silence his critics where it matters most – on the field.
Did Nketiah deserve a new Arsenal contract?
After scoring 10 goals last season and finishing the campaign as Mikel Arteta’s go-to option when it comes to leading the line, Nketiah told The Telegraph of earning a new contract: “When you get a run of eight games in the first team, you get that database and platform to show everything you can do.
“I have worked a lot with the manager on playing with my back to goal, on the spaces to drop into and link play. Of course it has been developed, but at the same time you don’t get here by just standing in the penalty box and scoring a goal.
“People are always going to say things, but I know what I can do. The people that have played with me, played against me, the coaches that have worked with me, I know how they feel about me.
“Every team needs a squad to compete. The club is always looking for ways to strengthen. They have extended my deal and they have done so for a reason. Whoever comes in, you relish the challenge. You make them feel welcome, and then you fight and compete.”
Why did Nketiah agree to take No 14?
Goal/Getty
Alongside penning a new deal, Nketiah has also agreed to change his squad number from 30 to 14, which will see him follow in the illustrious footsteps of Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer, Henry.
On that decision, a confident character added: “I joined the club at the age of 14, 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.
“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. 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.”
Will Nketiah play internationally for England or Ghana?
Nobody in history has scored more goals for England’s U21 side than Nketiah’s 16 efforts, but there is still a chance he could switch allegiance to Ghana if opportunities with the Three Lions prove hard to come by.
Nketiah said of joining the Black Stars: “There have been discussions, but nothing has been decided.”
