Is Victor Gyokeres taking the number 9 shirt at Arsenal?

Viktor Gyokeres will not switch to the No.9 shirt at Arsenal despite Gabriel Jesus’ £12.9million move to Barcelona leaving the number vacant, according to the Evening Standard. Arsenal confirmed their 2026-27 squad numbers on August 18, three days before facing Coventry, meaning Gyokeres retains No.14 rather than inheriting the traditionally striker-reserved No.9, previously worn by Lacazette, Anelka and Eduardo.

The report also addressed speculation linking the Swede’s shirt number to his lack of Premier League minutes so far. Manager Mikel Arteta dismissed suggestions of a snub, citing physical concerns among squad members after Arsenal’s win over Aston Villa, adding minutes “for everybody” would come.