Celebrate 138 Year Arsenal Journey with Our New Exclusive Arsenal Timeline Football Print
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Celebrate 138 Years of Arsenal with Our New Exclusive Timeline Poster
Arsenal Football Club has one of the richest histories in English football, tracing its origins to 1886. The challenges of adapting to modern football’s financial realities, managing the expectations of a passionate fanbase, and competing with some of the world’s wealthiest clubs have shaped Arsenal’s recent history. Yet, under Arteta’s leadership, Arsenal has crafted a vision that blends its traditional values with a progressive approach, focused on sustainable growth and the nurturing of young talent. As the club looks to reclaim its position among Europe’s elite, Arsenal fans are once again hopeful that the club will add new chapters of success to its illustrious history.
Throughout its history, Arsenal has been home to legendary players who left an indelible mark on the club.
Here are our Top 10 Arsenal players
Thierry Henry
- Position: Forward
- Years Active: 1999-2007, 2012
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Appearances: 377 | Goals: 228
Thierry Henry is widely regarded as Arsenal’s greatest player. Arriving from Juventus in 1999, Henry quickly established himself as a generational talent. His extraordinary pace, precision, and skill made him one of the most feared forwards in the world. Known for his trademark curling shots, Henry won two Premier League titles and led Arsenal to their historic “Invincibles” season in 2003-04. His leadership extended beyond scoring, as he inspired his teammates and fans alike. Henry left in 2007 but returned briefly in 2012, scoring a memorable comeback goal against Leeds United, cementing his status as a club icon.
Dennis Bergkamp
- Position: Forward
- Years Active: 1995-2006
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Appearances: 423 | Goals: 120
Dennis Bergkamp, known as “The Iceman” for his calmness under pressure, brought elegance and artistry to Arsenal’s attack. Signed from Inter Milan in 1995, Bergkamp was instrumental in Arsenal’s rise under Arsène Wenger, with his technical skill, vision, and tactical awareness making him a perfect link between midfield and attack. His ability to execute breathtaking goals, like his famous turn and finish against Newcastle, made him beloved by fans. Bergkamp’s contributions helped Arsenal secure three Premier League titles and four FA Cups, and his influence on the team’s playing style is still admired today.
Tony Adams
- Position: Defender
- Years Active: 1983-2002
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Appearances: 669 | Goals: 48
Tony Adams, nicknamed “Mr. Arsenal,” epitomized loyalty and resilience. Spending his entire career at the club, he became captain at the young age of 21 and led Arsenal through a transition period that included the managerial switch to Arsène Wenger. Adams was renowned for his leadership, physicality, and reading of the game, qualities that helped Arsenal win four league titles and three FA Cups. His personal battles off the pitch and subsequent triumphs became an inspirational story for fans, and his dedication to Arsenal earned him a statue outside the Emirates Stadium.
Ian Wright
- Position: Forward
- Years Active: 1991-1998
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Appearances: 288 | Goals: 185
Known for his infectious enthusiasm and relentless drive, Ian Wright brought energy and goal-scoring prowess to Arsenal. Signed from Crystal Palace in 1991, Wright quickly became a fan favorite, breaking Arsenal’s all-time scoring record before Henry eventually surpassed it. His knack for scoring memorable goals in crucial moments was matched only by his passion and flair, which resonated with Arsenal supporters. Wright played a significant role in Arsenal’s successes in the early '90s, including their league and cup double in 1997-98, and remains one of the club’s most beloved figures.
Patrick Vieira
- Position: Midfielder
- Years Active: 1996-2005
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Appearances: 406 | Goals: 33
Patrick Vieira’s presence in midfield defined Arsenal’s dominance in the late '90s and early 2000s. Signed by Wenger in 1996, Vieira combined physical power with technical skill, quickly becoming one of the Premier League’s most imposing figures. His duels with Manchester United’s Roy Keane epitomized the intensity of English football’s greatest rivalries. As captain, Vieira led Arsenal to three league titles, including the unbeaten Invincibles season, and four FA Cups. His final touch in an Arsenal shirt was scoring the winning penalty in the 2005 FA Cup final, sealing his legendary status.
David Seaman
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Years Active: 1990-2003
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Appearances: 564 | Clean Sheets: 237
Known for his consistency and trademark ponytail, David Seaman was a rock in Arsenal’s goal for over a decade. Signed from Queens Park Rangers in 1990, Seaman became renowned for his reflexes and composure, pulling off unforgettable saves like his one-handed stop against Sheffield United in the FA Cup semi-final. Seaman helped Arsenal win two Premier League titles and four FA Cups and was integral in the club’s 1993 FA Cup and League Cup double. His presence provided the team with confidence, and he is remembered as one of Arsenal’s best-ever goalkeepers.
Robert Pires
- Position: Midfielder
- Years Active: 2000-2006
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Appearances: 284 | Goals: 85
French winger Robert Pires brought creativity and flair to the Arsenal midfield. Signed in 2000, Pires quickly adapted to the English game and became one of the Premier League’s most skillful players. His partnership with Henry and Ljungberg was instrumental in Arsenal’s Invincibles season, as his dribbling and goal-scoring ability added a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Known for his finesse and intelligence on the ball, Pires won two league titles and three FA Cups with Arsenal and remains a fan favorite for his stylish play.
Cesc Fàbregas
- Position: Midfielder
- Years Active: 2003-2011
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Appearances: 303 | Goals: 57
Cesc Fàbregas joined Arsenal from Barcelona’s La Masia academy at just 16 and quickly became one of the club’s most talented midfielders. Known for his pinpoint passing, intelligence, and leadership, Fàbregas became Arsenal’s captain in 2008. Although he did not secure a Premier League title, he led the team with maturity and skill, often creating goal-scoring chances with his vision. Fàbregas’s contributions, despite a trophy drought, left a lasting impact on the club, and his performances remain highly regarded among Arsenal fans.
Liam Brady
- Position: Midfielder
- Years Active: 1973-1980
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Appearances: 307 | Goals: 59
Known for his elegance and technical ability, Liam Brady became one of Arsenal’s most talented players of the 1970s. A gifted playmaker, Brady was celebrated for his passing, dribbling, and an exquisite left foot that could score stunning goals. His performance in the 1979 FA Cup final, where he set up the winning goal, is still remembered by fans. Although Brady left for Juventus in 1980, his legacy endures, and he is revered as one of Arsenal’s finest creative players.
Sol Campbell
- Position: Defender
- Years Active: 2001-2006, 2010
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Appearances: 211 | Goals: 12
Sol Campbell’s controversial move from Tottenham to Arsenal was justified by his contributions to Arsenal’s success. His strength, athleticism, and defensive intelligence made him one of the Premier League’s best center-backs. Campbell was a key figure in Arsenal’s Invincibles season, forming a solid partnership with Kolo Touré. His header in the 2006 Champions League final gave Arsenal the lead, although they ultimately lost. Campbell’s dedication and defensive prowess made him a vital part of Arsenal’s achievements in the early 2000s.
Celebrate Arsenal’s Rich History
These ten legends, along with 100s of others who have worn the Arsenal shirt since 1886, embody the heart, skill, and spirit of the club. Their contributions have helped shape Arsenal into the legendary football club it is today. Celebrate the Arsenal journey with our beautifully crafted timeline print.
Order your timeline print now and relive the moments that made Arsenal FC a legendary club.