Henry (footballer)
Thierry Henry (b. 1977), commonly known as Thierry Henry, is a retired French professional footballer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of all time.
Playing Career:
Henry began his professional career with AS Monaco in 1994, quickly establishing himself as a promising winger. He moved to Juventus in 1999, but struggled to adapt to the Italian league. In August 1999, he was transferred to Arsenal, where he transformed into a world-class centre-forward under manager Arsène Wenger.
At Arsenal, Henry enjoyed a highly successful eight-year spell. He became the club's all-time leading goalscorer with 228 goals in all competitions. He won two Premier League titles (including an unbeaten season in 2003-04), three FA Cups, and two Community Shields. He also finished as the Premier League's top scorer a record four times (2001–02, 2003–04, 2004–05, 2005–06). Henry was instrumental in Arsenal's run to the 2006 UEFA Champions League final.
In 2007, Henry moved to Barcelona, where he won two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, a Supercopa de España, a UEFA Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, and a FIFA Club World Cup. He formed part of a formidable attacking trio alongside Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o.
Henry concluded his professional career with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer (MLS) from 2010 to 2014.
International Career:
Henry enjoyed a distinguished international career with the French national team. He earned 123 caps and scored 51 goals, making him France's all-time leading goalscorer until Olivier Giroud surpassed the record in 2022. He won the 1998 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2000, and the 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup. He also reached the final of the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Playing Style:
Henry was renowned for his pace, skill, finishing ability, and technical prowess. He possessed exceptional dribbling skills, a powerful shot, and the ability to both score and create goals. He often operated on the left wing before cutting inside onto his favored right foot. He was also a skilled free-kick taker.
Post-Playing Career:
After retiring from playing, Henry transitioned into coaching and punditry. He served as an assistant coach for the Belgium national team and had managerial spells with AS Monaco, Montreal Impact, and the France U21 national team. He has also worked as a television pundit for various networks.
Honours:
- Arsenal: Premier League (2), FA Cup (3), Community Shield (2)
- Barcelona: La Liga (2), Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup
- France: FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, FIFA Confederations Cup
Individual Awards:
- Premier League Golden Boot (4)
- PFA Players' Player of the Year (2)
- FWA Footballer of the Year (3)
- European Golden Shoe (2)
Controversies:
Henry was involved in a handball controversy during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match against the Republic of Ireland. His handball led to the winning goal for France, securing their qualification for the tournament, and sparked widespread debate and criticism.