Thierry Henry and Didier Drogba make wager over Arsenal’s defensive record

Didier Drogba has laid down a challenge to Thierry Henry, betting that Arsenal will not surpass Chelsea’s legendary defensive record in the Premier League this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side currently lead Manchester City by four points at the top of the table, with their defensive solidity proving crucial.

The Gunners have conceded just five goals in 11 matches, sparking talk that they could break Chelsea’s long-standing record of only 15 goals conceded during their 2004/05 title-winning campaign under José Mourinho.

In the two decades since, only three teams have come close: Chelsea the following season with 22 goals conceded, Manchester United in 2007/08, and Liverpool in 2018/19 — both also conceding 22.

Confident in Arsenal’s form, Henry accepted Drogba’s wager. The two Premier League icons agreed that if Arsenal finish the season with fewer than 15 goals conceded, Drogba will don Henry’s famous Arsenal No. 14 shirt and hat. ‘Okay, let’s do it,’ Henry said. Drogba replied: ‘I wear the hat, I wear the jersey, number 14.’

Arsenal defenders Gabriel and William Saliba have been central to this remarkable run, and their performances continue to fuel belief that the record could finally fall.