In a recent program on the Sky Sports channel, former Gunners star Theo Walcott shared the story of one of the key decisions in his career - joining Arsenal. Despite being a die-hard Liverpool fan since his childhood, he rejected the olive branches of the Red Devils, the Blues and the Gunners, and ultimately chose the North London side for no other reason than to play alongside his heart's hero, Thierry Henry.
Walcott recalls fondly: "Chelsea and Liverpool were my first choices that year, and Manchester United's invitation came later, and I didn't even realize it for a while. However, the intervention of coach Arsene Wenger was the lynch pin that made me firmly believe. I still remember the night we visited the residence of former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein."
Talking about the initial intention of joining Arsenal, Walcott frankly said: "Thierry Henry, he is the person I want to learn from him and ask him for advice. When I learned that Arsenal was interested in inviting me, I decided to join without hesitation. It was my dream to play alongside such an exceptional player. What child could turn down the chance to play with his idol? For me, it couldn't have been a simpler choice."
Despite being a huge Liverpool fan as a child, Walcott says it didn't stop him from loving other great players: "When Liverpool lifted the Champions League trophy in the 2004-05 season, I was so excited I couldn't contain myself and almost woke my neighbors out of their sleep."
Walcott also shared his connection with Liverpool: "At the time, I was playing in a tournament and both Southampton and Chelsea showed interest in me. Chelsea even invited me to be a ball boy against Liverpool, and I had the honor of meeting my idols Robbie Fowler and Michael Owen. I only became a Liverpool fan because my father was. Sadly, the team was not yet at its peak when I was born, but I grew up watching players like Michael Owen, Robbie Fowler and McManaman play."
Despite being a Liverpool fan, Walcott eventually chose Arsenal and spent his golden years there. His choice not only realized his dream of playing with Henry, but also added a colorful chapter to Arsenal's history.
