Description
Match worn or issued Arsenal home shirt by Ian Wright #8 in either the season 1994-1995 or 1995-1996. The Premier League patches are present on both sleeves.
The 1994-1996 seasons were a time of change for Arsenal, as they transitioned between managers and sought to compete at the top of English football. In 1994-95, under George Graham, the team started solidly but was shaken by Graham’s dismissal in February 1995 due to financial irregularities. Stewart Houston took over as caretaker, leading Arsenal to the final of the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, where they suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Real Zaragoza, thanks to Nayim’s famous long-range lob in extra time. The league campaign ended with a disappointing 12th-place finish.
In 1995-96, Arsenal appointed Bruce Rioch as manager, and the club showed improvement, finishing 5th in the Premier League and qualifying for the UEFA Cup. The highlight of the season was the arrival of Dennis Bergkamp, who added world-class quality to Arsenal’s attack. However, Rioch’s tenure was short-lived, as tensions with the board led to his dismissal before the following season, paving the way for Arsène Wenger’s legendary reign.
A key figure throughout this time was Ian Wright, Arsenal’s talismanic striker and one of the most lethal goal scorers in English football. Wright was the club’s top scorer in both seasons, consistently delivering with his sharp movement, instinctive finishing, and tireless energy. His passion for the club was evident in every performance, and by 1996, he had firmly cemented himself as one of Arsenal’s all-time greats. Wright’s ability to score in all types of situations —long-range strikes, poacher’s finishes, and acrobatic efforts— made him indispensable to Arsenal. His goals kept the club competitive during a difficult period, and he would go on to become Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer before Thierry Henry eventually surpassed his record.
The shirt has all the characteristics of a match shirt: correct player size name and number in felt material and the missing “Nike authentic replica” patch in the bottom right of the front of the shirt (which is present on official replica store shirts).
Fun fact: in most games these seasons, Wright cut out the white collar because he did not like it. However, not in all (see last photo).
Years: 1994-1996
Size: XL
Condition: Excellent
Brand: Nike
Sponsor: JVC
