Patrick Vieira, the dominant former Arsenal captain, wearing a long-sleeved Gunners shirt at the height of his powers is one of the most famous pictures in Premier League history. The damp patch at the front of the Frenchman’s top is one element that was nearly always there when he took to the pitch, although some people might not have noticed it.
Vieira would use Vicks VapoRub to create a wet look where the Arsenal badge was occasionally positioned, right in the middle of the jersey. For medicinal purposes, the ointment is typically applied to the chest to assist combat cold symptoms like coughing and sore throats.
Patrick Vieira on Use of VapoRub
It helped relieve stress and anxiety
In an interview with CBS Sports, the Premier League-winning skipper clarified that he used the drug for a different kind of relaxation. Following a discussion of his occasional nervousness and worry on the pitch, Vieira gave the following explanation for why he used the vapour rub:
“You’re looking for something that will assist you get an additional 1%. You may do it by preparing yourself each day of the week so that you can play your best on Saturday.
“I had these items that helped me relieve a small amount of tension since I was occasionally feeling a little bit worried. It was significant to me, and I could always get this type of [comfort] there.”
The former Inter Milan and Manchester City midfielder went into additional detail in a different interview, this time with TNT Sports, describing how the peculiar practice really aided his breathing: “I’m not sure if it’s iconic. You know, you get a little tired on the pitch occasionally, and it made it much easier for you to breathe. Wearing it was enjoyable, however I’m not sure if it worked. View the video below:
Patrick Vieira on his iconic Vicks VapoRub look: “I don’t know if it’s iconic or not. You know when you’re on the field, sometimes you get a little bit tired, it helped you to breathe much better. I don’t know if it worked but it was good to wear it.” #afc pic.twitter.com/nMiF4RIO0n https://t.co/8DMvEgnLTB
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) June 23, 2023
Vieira was and will always be one of the most recognised and iconic-looking players to have ever graced the English game, whether he wants to acknowledge it or not. He is at the top of the list of the best midfielders in Premier League history, right up there with players like Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, and Steven Gerrard.
xz
