Thierry Henry teams up with Ronaldo for Hollywood drama Day 1s

Henry joins Ronaldo in scripted drama

Thierry Henry has swapped the punditry desk for a scripted drama series, joining Cristiano Ronaldo in UR Marv Studios' new show Day 1s. The former Arsenal striker will appear alongside the Al-Nassr forward, British actor Damian Lewis, rapper Dave and newcomer Carlotta Banat. The project explores the modern football industry through the story of a powerful football agent. Henry, 47, reunites with Ronaldo having once been rivals on the pitch, now teaming up in a very different setting. The series marks Henry's first major television venture beyond his regular media commitments.

Henry slams Mourinho over Vinicius treatment

Thierry Henry could barely contain his fury at Jose Mourinho following the manager's treatment of Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. The incident unfolded in February when Real met Benfica, then managed by Mourinho, in the Champions League knockout play-offs. Vinicius scored the only goal and appealed to the referee, accusing Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of aiming racist abuse at him. Henry failed to hide his frustrations at Mourinho's refusal to call out the alleged racism. The Argentinian Prestianni was later banned over the incident, with video showing him pulling his jersey up to cover his mouth before clearly saying something in Vinicius' direction. Henry has been vocal about the need for managers to take a stand against racism in football.

Arsenal and the Vinicius Jr transfer link

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has emerged as a surprise admirer of Vinicius Jr, with the Brazilian entering the final 12 months of his contract in Madrid. Henry, a known Arsenal icon, may be eager to see the best left winger in the world arrive at the Emirates Stadium. There is a fine chance the Brazilian's representatives are simply using rumours as bait to land an even better deal, though the powers that be in north London will hope there is a genuine chance of acquiring his signature. The transfer speculation adds another layer to Henry's ongoing interest in shaping Arsenal's attacking options.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Thierry Henry joins Cristiano Ronaldo in UR Marv Studios drama series Day 1s, marking his television acting debut
• Henry publicly slammed Jose Mourinho for failing to call out alleged racism aimed at Vinicius Jr during a Champions League tie in February
• Vinicius Jr remains a transfer target for Arsenal as he enters the final year of his Real Madrid contract
• The series Day 1s also stars Damian Lewis, rapper Dave and newcomer Carlotta Banat