Thierry Henry, the iconic figure of Arsenal, has always been synonymous with the number 14 shirt. However, it turns out that this may not be his favorite number after all. During an Instagram live session, Henry revealed that his actual favorite number is 12, which he wore during his time with the French national team.

Henry explained his fondness for the number 12, recounting how Marco van Basten, the legendary Dutch forward, had a remarkable performance while wearing the number 12 jersey during the famous 1988 European Championship. At the age of 11, Henry was captivated by van Basten's world-class display, leaving a lasting impression on him.

When Henry was about to join Arsenal in 1999, he initially wanted to wear the number 12 shirt. However, Christopher Wreh had already chosen that number, so Henry opted for the number 14 instead. Little did he know that this decision would mark the beginning of his legendary journey.

Nevertheless, during a brief return to Arsenal in the 2011/2012 season, Henry did have the opportunity to wear the number 12 shirt. He reminisced about one of his greatest moments at the club, where he scored the winning goal against Leeds United. "My favorite goal of my Arsenal career was the one against Leeds United in 2012," Henry declared. "It was my first goal as an Arsenal fan and I was wearing the number 12 shirt, which is my favorite number."

Henry's love for the number 12 is rooted in his admiration for van Basten's performance. When he first arrived at Arsenal, Christopher Wreh had already claimed the number 12 shirt, and Henry didn't want to take it away from him, hence his decision to wear the number 14 instead. However, the significance of the number 12 couldn't be ignored. The goal against Leeds United came in the 78th minute, which was the 12th minute of the second half. It was Henry's 12th game against Leeds United, and he was wearing the number 12 shirt, coinciding with the start of the year 2012. The alignment of these numbers made the moment particularly special for Henry.

Thierry Henry's choice of the number 14 shirt may have defined his legacy at Arsenal, but his affection for the number 12 reveals a deeper sentimental connection. From van Basten's brilliance to his own memorable goal, the number 12 holds a significant place in the heart of the Arsenal legend.