Arsenal’s history is packed with iconic names, players who didn’t just win matches but helped define eras of English football. Few managers shaped that legacy more than Arsène Wenger, whose 22-year reign transformed the club into a global powerhouse.
Among the many stars Wenger brought to North London was Olivier Giroud. Now 39, the World Cup–winning striker has looked back on his Arsenal days and made a bold claim — ranking one former Gunners legend ahead of modern superstar Kylian Mbappé.
That player? Thierry Henry.
Giroud Rates Thierry Henry Above Mbappé
Thierry Henry’s status at Arsenal needs little introduction. Widely regarded as one of the greatest forwards of all time, the Frenchman arrived at Highbury in 1999 from Juventus. At the time, he was primarily known as a winger, but Wenger saw something more.
The decision to convert Henry into a central striker proved historic. Over eight unforgettable seasons, he became Arsenal’s all-time leading goalscorer and the face of the club’s most dominant era. When he left for Barcelona in 2007 for £16 million, his legacy in North London was already secure.
Despite playing in a different generation, Giroud holds Henry in the highest regard. In a blind-ranking challenge shared on Lille’s official social media channels, Giroud was asked to place several elite footballers without knowing who would come next.
He initially ranked Kylian Mbappé third. When Thierry Henry’s name was revealed later, Giroud placed the Arsenal legend one spot higher — a clear statement of how highly he rates his former club icon.
Arsenal Fans Still See Henry as the Gold Standard
Years after his departure, Henry remains deeply loved by Arsenal supporters. His influence extended far beyond goals, combining pace, intelligence, elegance, and ruthless finishing in a way few players ever have.
Giroud’s ranking has reignited debates among fans, with many reflecting on other Champions League winners who have worn the Arsenal shirt — from Nicolas Anelka to Ashley Cole — and discussing where they stand in the club’s all-time hierarchy.
Mbappé and Henry: A Career Path That Nearly Crossed Arsenal
Interestingly, comparisons between Mbappé and Henry have followed the PSG star since his teenage years. Both are French, both emerged from Monaco, and both possess explosive pace and deadly finishing from the left side of attack.
Those similarities weren’t lost on Arsène Wenger. Long before Mbappé became a global superstar, Wenger attempted to bring him to Arsenal. Speaking in 2017, the legendary manager admitted the club had been close to signing him before competition from Europe’s elite intensified.
“We were on the case last year,” Wenger said at the time. “He was closer to joining us then because the competition wasn’t as strong as it is now.”
