Discover surprising insights into the life and career of one of football's greatest icons

Thierry Henry is more than simply a football legend; his name connects with fans of all ages. Henry is renowned for his incredible skills, unwavering speed, and knack for scoring goals that left opponents in his wake. His journey from the Les Ulis streets to the elite stages of the Premier League and beyond is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and unwavering passion for the game. 

But Henry is much more than just the goals and medals; his career is full of fascinating stories and surprising turns that have captured the attention of fans long after he finished playing. Let's look at some amazing facts about Henry that you might need to learn as we celebrate his 47th birthday. 

Unlikely admirer of a Premier League rival

Many may be surprised to find that Henry has a high regard for a player from one of Arsenal's most formidable rivals. In a Sky Sports interview, Henry stated that the most outstanding player he has ever faced in the Premier League is none other than the illustrious Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes.

🚨 “Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard or Paul Scholes?”

• Pep Guardiola: “Paul Scholes.”
• Thierry Henry: “Paul Scholes.”
• Toni Kroos: “Paul Scholes.”

Ronaldinho: "Paul Scholes" (Who taught that guy how to play pass?)

The best in the business know, Paul Scholes. One of the… pic.twitter.com/370GlpoCfv

— United 4Fans (@United4fans) December 18, 2023

Henry lauded Scholes for his incredible talent and impact on the game, saying that if he were to put together a squad, it would revolve around the midfield master. Regardless of team loyalty, Scholes's respect is evidence of his passion for the pinnacle of football.

A chance meeting that changed Arsenal's history

Thierry Henry's move to Arsenal was everything from conventional. Actually, it all began with a fortuitous meeting on a Paris-bound aeroplane. Henry talked about how he met Arsène Wenger on the plane and told him he wanted to play for Arsenal in an Arsenal Legends documentary. Henry joined the Gunners in August 1999 after the visionary Wenger made it happen.

This fortuitous meeting set the stage for one of football's most iconic player-manager partnerships. Henry became a legend in the football world and within the club, and his tenure at Arsenal would define his career.

The birth of 'Va-Va-Voom'

How many football players can claim to have contributed a term to the Oxford Dictionary? Thierry Henry is capable. His iconic Renault advertisements are credited with popularising the term "va-va-voom." The Oxford Dictionary coined the phrase "the quality of being exciting, vigorous, or attractive," solidifying Henry's influence outside of the field.

Thierry Henry really was something else. He had absolutely everything and was cool as ice. He had how you say, Va Va Voom.pic.twitter.com/rYiM5Drscz

— Sol Gravy (@GravySol) June 27, 2023

Music as pre-match fuel

For Thierry Henry, listening to music before a game is a ritual rather than just for enjoyment. Henry would play fast-paced rap or Zouk music to get into the zone before he got on the pitch. His favourite musicians were Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Tupac.

Music helped him focus and channel his energy, which was essential to his training. Henry is happy that managers and coaches are more willing to include music in their pre-game routines.

Basketball and beyond

Though his first love may be football, Thierry Henry is also an avid basketball lover. He was known to hang out with the late Kobe Bryant and is a fervent fan of the San Antonio Spurs. Henry has a complex personality, and his love of basketball adds another dimension, demonstrating his interest in sports outside of football.

Thierry Henry ⚽️ volleys it in 🏀 from half court after #NBAAfricaGame practice! pic.twitter.com/Tvj3W1fLwr

— NBA (@NBA) August 4, 2017

Today, Thierry Henry, a record four-time Golden Boot champion in English Premier League history, is celebrated for his achievements on the pitch and his efforts to make his mark in football management. His journey is a testament to his enduring passion for the beautiful game and his relentless pursuit of excellence, both as a player and a coach.

Happy Birthday, Thierry Henry! Wishing you a day as legendary as your career on the pitch.