–Controversy Erupts as Victor Gyökeres Is Handed “Dream” Shirt Number Amid Fan BacklashIn a surprising development that has sent ripples through the Arsenal fanbase, newly signed striker Victor Gyökeres has been granted his “dream” jersey number — a decision that has sparked widespread controversy and led to accusations of betrayal directed at manager Mikel Arteta.
Gyökeres, who officially joined Arsenal on a five-year contract just yesterday, was unveiled at the Emirates Stadium earlier today wearing his new number — one that has long been associated with another established member of the first-team squad.
While the 26-year-old Swedish forward beamed with pride, calling it a “dream come true,” the choice of shirt number has ignited a fierce debate among supporters.
Backlash Over Reassigned Shirt NumberReports suggest that the number, previously thought to be reserved for a current Arsenal player, was quietly reassigned to Gyökeres in the final stages of the transfer announcement.
The player believed to have lost the number has not been officially identified by the club, but it is rumored that he only learned of the change via internal communication a few days before the public reveal.This development has triggered a flurry of reactions across social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and Instagram.
Many fans have expressed disappointment and anger over what they see as a disrespectful and poorly handled situation.One frustrated fan wrote:“This is absolutely disrespectful.
Arteta constantly preaches unity and values, yet this feels like a slap in the face to a loyal servant of the club.”Another added:“Gyökeres is a strong addition, but the way this number issue was handled lacked class. It’s not about who’s better — it’s about how you treat your players.”Defenders of the Decision Call for PerspectiveNot all fans were critical.
Some supporters have come to Arteta’s defense, arguing that the focus should remain on footballing merit and the future of the club.
These voices suggest that assigning the jersey to Gyökeres may serve to boost his confidence and solidify his role as a key figure in the team’s offensive plans.“Arteta is building a team to win trophies,” one fan commented.
“If giving Gyökeres that number motivates him to deliver goals, then it’s the right decision. Sentiment has to take a back seat.”Arteta’s Silence Adds to the TensionManager Mikel Arteta has yet to address the situation publicly.
However, sources close to the club indicate that he personally supported the decision to allocate the number to Gyökeres, viewing it as both a symbolic gesture of trust and a motivational tool for the club’s marquee summer signing.
A Proven Goal-Scorer with Big ExpectationsGyökeres arrives in North London following a phenomenal campaign with Portuguese side Sporting CP, where he scored an astounding 43 goals in all competitions.
His signing represents a major statement of intent from Arsenal, especially with the Premier League title race and Champions League campaign looming large.
Despite the tension surrounding the number dispute, there remains a strong sense of anticipation about what Gyökeres can bring to the team.
Many hope that his performances on the pitch will quickly overshadow the off-field controversy and help restore unity within the fanbase.
Whether he can live up to the weight of expectations — and the symbolism of the shirt he now wears — remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the spotlight on Victor Gyökeres has only grown brighter.
