Gideon Mensah chooses iconic No.14 shirt at Cologne
Summer signing Gideon Mensah has taken Cologne's iconic No.14 shirt, a number previously worn by club legend Jonas Hector.
Mensah joined Cologne from French side Auxerre earlier this month, and was immediately aware of the responsibility that comes with wearing the No.14 shirt. The number carries a special legacy at his new club, having been left vacant since former captain and fan favourite Hector retired in May 2023 after spending his entire professional career with the Billy Goats, making 347 competitive appearances.
"I know it's a historic number for the club," said the Cologne left-back. "When you arrive as a new player and wear the number 14, you have a great responsibility. I'm ready for it."
Mensah will now look to write his own chapter in the No.14 shirt, following in the footsteps of Hector, who spent 11 years with the Billy Goats and represented Germany at UEFA EURO 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
His first competitive outing could come on 24 August, when Cologne face Würzburger Kickers in the opening round of the DFB Cup. His first chance to play in front of the club's supporters at the RheinEnergieStadion will arrive on Bundesliga Matchday 1 against Hoffenheim – an occasion he is already relishing.
"I've played in big stadiums before, but from what I've seen of the FC fans, I'm especially excited about that," he said. "They'll push me and the team even harder."
