In Christianity, 40 often symbolizes a period of trial, judgment, repentance, or preparation:
The Flood lasted 40 days and 40 nights. Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai. The Israelites wandered the wilderness for 40 years. Jesus fasted for 40 days and Christ appeared for 40 days after his resurrection.
In Islam, 40 is also deeply significant:
The Qur'an associates 40 with maturity.
Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation at the age of 40.
In football, it's been exactly 40 days since Arsenal won the Premier League.
In January 2023, Arsenal missed out on £86M Mudryk and signed Trossard for £26m instead.
One became embroiled in a doping scandal. The other helped deliver Arsenal's league title.
Why mention the £26m fee today?
Because it's been exactly 26 days since Arsenal won the league.
Congratulations Arsenal FC for winning the Premier League. Feels like you forgot. Y'all so quiet. Don't let the World Cup take away your shine. And of course, there's that issue of the missed penalty. But who remembers that even?