Arsenal's most expensive players of all time

We take a look at some of the most expensive players for whom Arsenal have spent a fortune and how those transfers have panned out.

Arsenal's most expensive players of all time

After finishing second in the Premier League last season and losing the title to Manchester City in the penultimate month, Arsenal have looked to strengthen their squad in certain areas and increase the squad depth. In order to do so, they've reportedly prepared a budget of over £200m to spend on buying players who have good physicality and have the composure to play in Arteta's system. With Havertz being already announced as an Arsenal player and Declan Rice being set to come to the Emirates, Arsenal have already broke the bank and it's just the first week of July. So we take a look at some other most expensive players for whom Arsenal have paid a fortune.

Also Read : Which team is Moises Caicedo signing for?

Most Expensive Players

Arsenal is not known as the club who spend fortunes on players but over the years they've exceeded the fans's expectations and spent big money on marquee players. 

Mesut Özil

Mesut Ozil | Arsenal | Arsene Wenger | Sportz Point |
Mesut Ozil signing for Arsenal from Real Madrid. (Photo by Getty Images)

Mesut Özil was Arsenal's first big money signing which caught the headlines. In the September of 2013, The German signed for the Gunners from Real Madrid for a whopping £42.5m. It was a then-club record signing.

At the time, Özil became the third most expensive signings in British Football history and was also one of the most expensive players ever. It was a statement signing for the club and Özil did work his magic in the red and white shirt for many years before he left the club and went to Fenerbahçe in 2021.

Thomas Partey

Thomas Partey | Arsenal | Mikel Arteta | Sportz<br />
Point |
Arsenal landed their primary target after activating Partey's release clause( Photo by Arsenal FC via Getty Images).

The Ghanaian midfielder signed for the Gunners from the Spanish side, Atletico Madrid on Deadline day of the transfer window in the month of October. Arsenal paid £45m for him, activating the release clause set by Atletico Madrid. 

He was under Arsenal's radar for quite some time then and because Mikel Arteta was in need for a defensive midfielder who was as dynamic as Thomas Partey the price went a little too high for the Gunners and it was the last day of the transfer window. But Arteta was very confident about him being successful at the club due to his qualities.

Gabriel Jesus

Gabriel Jesus | Arsenal | Mikel Arteta | Sportz Point |
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with new signing Gabriel Jesus. (Photo by Arsenal FC via Getty Images).

Gabriel signed for Arsenal in 2022 from Manchester City. He was one of the main targets of Arteta's in that year who he thought was the perfect player to rebuild the team around. Arsenal was in a search for a striker after Aubameyang and Lacazette both left in that year. Arsenal paid £45m for the Brazilian forward in order to fill up the No. 9 position.

He was the most expensive player for Arsenal in that season. He was crucial to Arteta's process of taking the club where it used to belong. He was crucial in the 2022 season for the Gunners but unfortunately picked up an injury in the World Cup and missed a couple of months because of that.

Ben White

Ben White | Sportz Point | Arsenal | Mikel Arteta |
White was presented by the club alongside manager Mikel Arteta (left) and technical director Edu. (Photo by Getty Images).

The former Brighton defender joined Arsenal from the Seagulls in the summer transfer window of 2021. Arsenal signed Ben White for £50m with a 5-year-deal contract to his name. He was Arsenal's top target that summer and was on Arteta and Edu's radar for quite some time then.

Especially after England call-up his price inflated very much and because he was Arsenal's priority that summer they paid Brighton the price which secured the signing of Ben White. At the time, Arsenal were desperate for a central defender and it reflected on their signing of Ben White.

Alexandre Lacazette

Lacazette | Arsenal | Arsene Wenger | Sportz Point |
Alexandre Lacazette signing for Arsenal under Arsene Wenger. (Photo by Getty Images).

Arsenal signed the French forward from Lyon. Alexandre Lacazette cost Arsenal £52m which was also a club record deal at the time. He signed for Arsenal in July before pre-season and joined the team at Sydney during the pre-season tour in Australia.

He had a great partnership with then club captain, Aubameyang and the two strikers  created great havoc in the opposition box.  One of the main reasons Arsène Wenger signed him was his efficiency in front of the goal.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Aubameyang | Sportz Point | Arsenal
Aubameyang signing a new contract at Arsenal for 3 years. (Photo by Getty Images).

After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal agreed to sign Aubameyang from Dortmund for £60m. He was Arsenal's top target that January transfer window in 2018 and then the Gunners made him one of the most expensive players of all time. 

He's Arsenal's second highest all-time goalscorer and in his first full season he had also won the Premier League Golden Boot. So it's fair to say that he did justify the price Arsenal paid for him. He was also made Arsenal's captain. And then in 2022 he left the club and went to Barcelona.

Kai Havertz

Kai Havertz | Arsenal | Sportz Point |
Kai Havertz signs for Arsenal. (Photo Credit - Arsenal)

The German international is the lastest addition to Arsenal's squad. He just finished his medical and is ready to play for Arsenal. He came to Arsenal for a whopping £65m from the Blues, Arsenal's direct London rivals.

He's yet to prove his worth in the Premier League and justify his price tag as he's coming with a lot of mixed reputations. Havertz is said to be crucial in Arteta's plan of making Arsenal successful and we all are very eager to see how Arteta uses him and in which position.

Nicolas Pépé

Nicolas Pepe | Sportz Point | Arsenal |
Arsenal were very excited to land Nicolas Pepe in 2019. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Getty Images).

As Declan Rice has officially not become an Arsenal player yet, Nicolas Pépé still holds the record of being Arsenal's most expensive player of all time. Arsenal paid a total of £72m for him. The Ivory Coast player still is the costliest Arsenal transfer business to this date. He came to The Emirates from the French league, where he used to play for Lille.

Out of all the expensive transfer windows, Pépé is the only player who haven't played to it's potential. His time at Arsenal was not fairly remarkable and is often frowned upon. The amount of money Arsenal paid for him, and the way the deal was structured, he should've done better for the team but unfortunately he couldn't and he was loaned back to the French league to Nice.

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5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History

Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah secured his spot among an elite group of top three non-English players who have achieved remarkable goal-scoring milestones in English top-flight football by netting his 170th goal. Sportz Point breaks down the details of this exclusive club.

Muojindu Francis

Dec 5, 2024, 8:39 PM

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History - sportzpoint.com

The Premier League has traditionally served as a platform for global talent, with players from all over the world displaying their abilities in one of the most competitive football leagues. Few international players have achieved remarkable heights making a lasting impression with their goal-scoring skills.

1. Sergio Aguero-184 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Sergio Aguero - sportzpoint.com
Sergio Aguero has scored the most goals in Premier League history as a foreigner. 

Many people consider Argentine forward Sergio Aguero among Premier League history's best strikers. Aguero, who played for Manchester City from 2011 to 2021, changed the course of history with his precision finishing and ability to score goals at pivotal times. He has the best goals-to-games ratio of any player with more than 150 Premier League goals, scoring an incredible 184 goals in 275 games.

Aguero's most memorable moment came in 2012 when he dramatically won Manchester City's first Premier League title with an injury-time goal against QPR. He became a legend for City and the league at large due to his reliability and ability to perform well in crucial games.

Read Also | The Premier League’s Rising Stars in 2024

2. Thierry Henry- 175 goals

Thierry Henry - 5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - sportzpoint.com
Thierry Henry won four Premier League Golden Boot awards, more than anyone in history. Image | Arsenal

Thierry Henry, a French maestro, is known for his grace and skill in front of goal. Over two stints with the North London club, the Arsenal star scored 175 goals in 258 Premier League games. Henry won the Premier League Golden Boot four times, more than any other player in Premier League history, and was renowned for his incredible speed, skill, and ability to score spectacular goals on his own.

He scored 30 league goals and guided Arsenal to the championship during the undefeated "Invincibles" season of 2003–04, which was his most productive performance. Henry established the standard for what it meant to be a complete forward, his legacy endures even after retiring from football.

Read Also | Breaking Down the Most Iconic Football Facts and Moments of All Time

3. Mohammed Salah- 170 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Mohamed Salah - 170 goals - sportzpoint.com
Mo Salah previously held the record for most goals in a 38-game Premier League season. Image | OPTA

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has become one of the Premier League's most prolific goal-scorers. With more than 150 goals to his name, the Egyptian forward has consolidated his status as one of the greatest of all time. Salah made an explosive start, scoring 32 goals in the 2017-18 season, setting the record for the most goals in a 38-game campaign before Erling Haaland broke it again with 36 goals. 

Known for his blistering speed, sharp finishing, and relentless work ethic, Salah has been instrumental in Liverpool's recent successes, including their 2019-20 Premier League title. He may break more records as he continues to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency this season.

 4. Robin Van Persie- 144 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Robin Van Persie | sportzpoint.com
Van Persie won the Premier League Golden Boot twice. Image | Goal

Robin Van Persie, who scored 144 goals in 280 Premier League games, is renowned for his exquisite finishing and outstanding technique. He won the Premier League Golden Boot twice (2011–12, 2012–13) he played for Manchester United from 2012–2015 and Arsenal from 2004–2012.

His best season was 2012–13 when he scored 26 goals and helped United win their 20th EPL title. Van Persie was one of the most feared strikers in the league because of his versatility, and ability to score from a variety of positions.

 5. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink- 127 goals

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink scored 127 goals in Premier League - the fifth most by a non-English player | sportzpoint.com
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is one of the greatest strikers to play for Chelsea.

The Dutchman combined physicality and powerful shots to create a formidable presence in front of goal. Between 1997 and 2007, he made 288 Premier League appearances, scoring 127 goals while playing for Leeds United, Chelsea, Middlesbrough, and Charlton Athletic.

With two Golden Boot victories (1998–99 and 2000–01), he rose to fame for his long-range shots and clinical finishing. He is still regarded as one of the best strikers to play in a Chelsea jersey.

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Arsenal vs Manchester United Premier League 2024-25 Highlights | Arsenal hand Ruben Amorim his first defeat as United coach with a 2-0 win

Get the highlights of the epic Premier League 2024-25 clash of Arsenal vs Manchester United as Arsenal handed Ruben Amorim his first defeat as Manchester United coach with a 2-0 win.

Koushik Biswas

Dec 5, 2024, 9:57 AM

Arsenal vs Manchester United Premier League 2024-25 LIVE Updates | Timber scores for Arsenal; ARS 1-0 MUN - sportzpoint.com

Hello and welcome to another Premier League LIVE coverage brought to you by Sportz Point. Tonight, we will be covering the epic encounter between Arsenal and Manchester United at the iconic Emirates Stadium in London. 

What to expect?

Manchester United somehow have reignited themselves under their new charismatic coach Ruben Amorim while Arsenal looking to catch Liverpool at the top of the table to stay in the title race. As both teams have plenty to win and even more to lose, this Arsenal vs Manchester United match becomes more interesting for the fans and viewers.

Read Also | Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups

So, sit back and relax as we bring you all the build-up, updates, news and scores of the match. Enjoy the coverage.

LIVE Updates
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Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups

Check out the full match preview, previous records, head-to-head stats, predictions, injury updates and possible lineups of the Arsenal vs Manchester United clash in Premier League 2024-25 season.

Muojindu Francis

Dec 4, 2024, 1:50 PM

Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups - sportzpoint.com

Arsenal vs. Manchester United has been a feature of the Premier League schedule from the ferocious matches of the Arsène Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson era to current matchups involving up-and-coming talents. This rivalry is more than just a game; it's a display of pride, football history, and the ongoing struggle for dominance between two of the best teams in England.

Match Details

Match: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Date: 04/12/2024

Time: 1:30 am (IST)

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England.

Match Preview:

Struggles have marked Manchester United's season, but the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim has sparked a remarkable turnaround. The team is yet to lose under his leadership, with many attributing this resurgence to the "new manager bounce" phenomenon, where players step up to prove their worth. However, there is a noticeable improvement in United's attacking play beyond this initial lift. Amorim's high-intensity pressing and reliance on hardworking full-backs have added a new dimension to their game. Critics argue that the teams he has faced so far are not the strongest, making Arsenal his first real test.

For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this fixture holds special significance. In 2020, he masterminded a historic victory at Old Trafford, breaking a 14-year winless streak on United's turf, courtesy of a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty. Despite Arsenal's progress under Arteta, Manchester United remains a formidable challenge.

This season, Arsenal has shown marked improvement, thanks to smart recruitment that has made the team more fluid in transitions and versatile in positional play. The ability to invert both flanks has added unpredictability to their build-up, making them a more cohesive and dangerous side.

Amorim faces a tactical dilemma heading into this match. Should he stick to his system, knowing Arsenal dismantled a Sporting Lisbon side built on his principles, or tweak his approach to counter Arteta's strengths? Balancing his philosophy with United's gradual adaptation to his style will be critical.

On paper, Arsenal appears the favourite, barring any late injuries that have frequently disrupted their season. However, if Amorim can exploit counterattacking opportunities and disrupt Arsenal's rhythm by limiting their time on the ball, United could pose significant problems.

For football enthusiasts, this midweek clash promises to be a perfect way to unwind and enjoy two contrasting styles of play from two historic clubs.

Head-to-Head Stats:

In the last 5 matches Arsenal has gotten the better of Manchester United 3 times with the last being a 1-0 win at the Old Trafford earlier in April this year, while the latter have won the other 2 leaving no room for a draw. however, the sides will face each other 3 times this season with the first one happening today. Below is the head-to-head record since 1995.

Total matches: 70

Arsenal: 23

Manchester United: 31

Draws: 16

Team News

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta and Thomas Partey - sportzpoint.com

While Arsenal has shown resilience in recent weeks, key players remain on the sidelines. Takehiro Tomiyasu has been absent since October 5th, following a 3-1 victory over Southampton, and Ben White is still recovering after undergoing knee surgery.

Midfield stalwart Thomas Partey, one of Arsenal's most consistent performers this season, missed the recent game against West Ham due to a recurring muscle issue. Although he seemed to have overcome this problem earlier in the season, concerns remain about his long-term fitness. The club is optimistic, however, that his absence will not be prolonged.

Additionally, both Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães have been managing fitness struggles. Gabriel, in particular, has been restricted to just 45 minutes in Arsenal's last two matches. The Brazilian defender first showed signs of discomfort during the Liverpool game, where he was substituted early in the second half.

On a brighter note, Kieran Tierney's return offers a welcome boost. After a summer transfer attempt failed, he has been reintegrated into the squad and is back to full fitness. His availability comes at a critical time, with fixtures piling up and Arsenal needing all hands on deck.

Manchester United

Ruben Amorim in charge of Manchester United

Amorim faces a selection headache with the suspension of English midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, both sidelined after picking up five yellow cards. These players have been instrumental in implementing the manager's playing philosophy since his arrival. Additionally, the availability of Leny Yoro, Johnny Evans, and Victor Lindelof remains uncertain, further complicating the situation.

Read Also | Ruben Amorin to Man United: What will happen to Erik's Ajax boys at United?

Key Players to Watch

Bukayo Saka

Arsenal vs Mancheste United: Players to watch out - Bukayo Saka - sportzpoint.com

Throughout the 2024–2025 campaign, Bukayo Saka has consolidated his place among Arsenal's and England's top players with 10 assists and 5 goals in 12 matches. His on-field leadership, creativity, and consistency have all been combined to create truly outstanding performances.

Saka's offensive contribution continues to be an essential part of Arsenal's success. With numerous goals and assists, he has played a key role in breaking down defences, particularly in close games when his ability to float past opponents and produce accurate crosses or finishes has been crucial.

Another significant strength has been his adaptability; Saka has fit in well whether used on the right flank, in a more central position, or even sliding deeper to influence build-up play.

What sets this season apart is the increased maturity in his game. Saka has taken on greater responsibility, often stepping up in crucial moments, and with his ability to maintain composure under pressure, he will definitely pose a significant threat to the United Defence.

Read Also | The most shocking goal misses in Football history

Amad Diallo

Arsenal vs Manchester United: Players to watch out - Amad Diallo - sportzpoint.com

Under Ruben Amorim, Diallo secured his position as a vital player by putting on strong performances weekly after being overlooked in prior seasons with his involvement coming only as a squad rotation player.

United's attacking dynamics have greatly benefited from Diallo's rise and creative ability. He has shown remarkable dribbling skills, quick feet, and an eye for goal while playing mainly as a winger. Defences have struggled to keep up with his cutting inside from wide areas and unleashing strong shots or threading clever passes.

He will be an effective tactical weapon heading into this game for United

Possible Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya (GK), Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice, Martinelli, Havertz, Saka

Manchester United: Andre Onana (GK), Dalot, De Ligt, Mazroui, Shaw, Ugarte, Casemiro, Fernandes, Rashford, Zirkzee, Diallo

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Five Arsenal stars who left and went on to win the Premier League with other clubs

Arsenal has, produced players who have gone on to achieve greatness across Europe. While the club has its share of historic triumphs, some stars have left the Emirates in pursuit of silverware even at the expense of joining rival sides.

Muojindu Francis

Nov 22, 2024, 4:35 PM

Five Arsenal stars who left and went on to win the Premier League with other clubs

The desire for fame frequently pushes athletes to pursue new opportunities, sometimes at the expense of loyal supporters. A few former Arsenal players have gone on to win the Premier League trophy with other teams, reaching the highest level of English football. 

Their experiences serve as an example of the unpredictability of football, where ambition and loyalty frequently clash. In this feature, we look into the stories of five players who donned the red and white before leaving their names in Premier League history elsewhere. 

Read Also| I-League 2024-25 Fixtures, Teams, and Everything You Need to know

Robin Van Persie: Manchester United - 2012/2013

Van Persie making his trademark celebration for United- Sportz Point.com

One of the most prolific forwards of his generation, Robin van Persie was renowned for his impeccable positioning, precise finishing, and powerful volleys from every angle. After joining Arsenal in 2004 for £2.75 million, a sum well below Feyenoord's initial asking price of £5 million, he quickly made his mark. 

Manager Arsène Wenger had a vision for Van Persie, converting him from a left winger to a central striker, a transition Wenger had successfully made with Thierry Henry. When Henry left for Barcelona in 2007, Van Persie stepped up as Arsenal's primary goal-scorer.

By the start of the 2011–12 season, Van Persie had taken over as captain following Cesc Fàbregas's move to Barcelona. That season, he finished as the Premier League's top scorer with 30 goals, and in the process, became Arsenal’s eighth all-time leading scorer with 132 goals.

In August 2012, Van Persie made a high-profile move to Manchester United, with the clubs agreeing on a £22.5 million deal, potentially rising by £1.5 million depending on United’s success in the Premier League or Champions League.

Just a few months later, in April 2013, Van Persie sealed his place in United's history, scoring a stunning first-half hat-trick against Aston Villa that clinched their 20th league title with four matches to spare—his first and only Premier League championship. He would go on to leave the club in 2015 after three successful seasons.

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Cesc Fabregas: Chelsea- 2014/2015

Cesc Fabregas with celebrating Chelsea's Premier League trophy- Sportz Point.com

Another player with strong roots in the club he made the move from Barcelona in September 2003 after noticing that he was going to find it difficult to break into the Barcelona first team.

He made his debut for the team not long after, on 28 October 2003, in a League Cup tie at home to Rotherman United. In doing so, he became Arsenal's then-youngest-ever first-team player, aged 16 years and 177 days.

Following the club's move to the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2006, Cesc Fàbregas was handed the iconic number 4 shirt, which Patrick Vieira left vacant after his transfer to Juventus the year before. Fàbregas became a regular in the heart of the midfield, often partnering with Gilberto Silva. 

On 24 November 2008, after 14 league matches in the 2008–09 season, Cesc Fàbregas succeeded William Gallas as captain. 

On 15 August 2011, Barcelona secured his signature for an initial €29 million, with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons. Over the five years leading up to his departure from Arsenal, Fàbregas created 466 goal-scoring opportunities, registered 86 assists, and netted 48 goals.

On 3 May 2015, he won his first Premier League title at the ninth attempt, following a 1–0 home win over Crystal Palace.

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Ashley Cole: Chelsea- 2009/2010

Chelsea and Arsenal Left back Ashley- Sportz Point.com

Ashley Cole is widely remembered for his drawn-out contract dispute during which he sought to leave Arsenal. A key member of the iconic Invincible Squad, he won numerous trophies with the North London club.

His transfer to Chelsea caused significant disappointment among loyal fans, but ultimately, it proved to be a wise move. At Chelsea, he secured the Premier League title under Carlo Ancelotti in the 2009/10 season and lifted the Champions League trophy in 2012. 

Notably, he played in all 38 league matches during the 2010/11 season and earned the Chelsea F.C. Player's Player of the Year award for the second time. Cole is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's greatest fullbacks.

Gael Clichy: Manchester City- 2011/2012

Gael Clichy receiving instructions from Pep Guardiola- Sportz Point.com

Gaël Clichy joined the club in 2003 from Cannes as a young and promising left-back. Initially a backup to Ashley Cole, Clichy seized the opportunity to cement his place in the starting XI following Cole’s move to Chelsea in 2006. Known for his pace, work ethic, and defensive reliability, he became a mainstay in Arsenal’s backline.

In 2011, Clichy moved to Manchester City in search of new challenges and greater opportunities for silverware. His arrival coincided with City’s rise to prominence under Roberto Mancini. At City, Clichy continued to impress with his defensive prowess and tactical awareness.

Clichy’s time at Manchester City proved successful, as he contributed to the club’s first Premier League title in 2011/12, He added another Premier League title in the 2013/14 season, along with two League Cup victories in 2014 and 2016. Over six seasons, Clichy made over 200 appearances for City.

Read Also| Japan remains top of Group C after defeating China in World Cup Qualifiers.

Samir Nasri: Manchester City- 2011/2012

Nasri in Mancity's trademark light blue jersey contesting for the ball

The Frenchman brought flair and inventiveness to Arsène Wenger's midfield when he made a move from Marseille in 2008. Nasri immediately made a name for himself as a vital player in the team thanks to his technical proficiency, close control, and versatility in attacking roles.

He scored 15 goals in all competitions during his stellar 2010–11 season, including several incredible solo efforts. It was one of his best seasons to date. Because of his impact on the squad, he was nominated for both the PFA Player of the Year and PFA Young Player of the Year awards that season.

Despite his achievements, Nasri's time in London was characterized by the team's inability to win any trophies. When Arsenal was going through a transition in 2011, Nasri decided to depart in search of better opportunities elsewhere. He made a high-profile move to Manchester City.

Nasri was instrumental in helping City win their first Premier League championship in forty-four years during his debut season (2011–12). He cemented his position in the club's history by providing a vital assist for Sergio Agüero's historic last-minute victory against QPR. In the 2013–14 season, Nasri was instrumental in helping City win the League Cup and another Premier League championship.

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Substitutions that changed the football history

From Gareth Bale to Mario Gotze, there have been many instances of substitutions that changed football history. In this article, Sportzpoint explores those legendary substitutions.

Substitutions that changed the football history

Players who earn a place in the starting eleven crash into the headlines mostly, but those who come off the bench are never insignificant. Depending on the situation and for various other tactical and strategic moves, substitute players can make huge differences when things start getting tough on the pitch. 

Sportzpoint explores the greatest substitutions that changed the football history and remained folkloric.

Mario Gotze

(Germany vs Argentina, FIFA World Cup Final 2014)

Substitutions that changed the football history-sportzpoint.com
(Image Credit | Wikipedia)

Mario Gotze lived the dream of every footballer back in 2014 when he scored the only goal against Argentina in the Final to take Germany to their fourth World Cup glory

Gotze came off the bench replacing the legendary Miroslav Klose, only two minutes before the full-time whistle but the game ended goalless. However, in the 113 minute of AET, Gotze received Schurrle's pass on the left and from a close range to the goal; and his left-footed strike fooled Argentina keeper Romero to end up in the goal. 

Argentina could not bounce back from this late setback and Germany lifted the World Cup 2014. Mario Gotze's substitution remained one of the most impactful in the history of football. 

Gareth Bale

(Real Madrid vs Liverpool, UCL Final 2017-18)

Substitutions that changed the football history-sportzpoint.com

Gareth Bale admitted in an interview with FourFourTwo that he was very frustrated after not getting a start for Real Madrid in the 2017-18 UCL Final against Liverpool. However, Bale's fallout with Real Madrid's then-manager Zinedine Zidane led us to experience one of the greatest substitutions in the Champions League's history.

After a goalless first half, Karim Benzema opened the scoring in the 51st minute; but Sadio Mane only took 4 minutes to equalize for Liverpool. In the 61st minute, Bale replaced Isco but who would have thought that the Welshman was going to rewrite history and all by himself? 

Only 3 minutes after Bale came on, Marcelo's cross found him in the box and Bale produced an acrobatic overhead volley, and the ball ended up in the net. Bale sealed the victory for Madrid in the 83rd minute with a rocketed strike which made Liverpool keeper Karius fumble and the ball went inside. Coming off the bench, Gareth Bale scored this heroic brace to lead Real Madrid to win their third consecutive UCL title.

Eder

(Portugal vs France, EURO 2016 Final)

Substitutions that changed the football history-sportzpoint.com

Eder became an overnight sensation after slotting a late strike to win Portugal the EURO 2016, their first-ever major trophy in history

France and Portugal both wasted opportunities in the full-time but things became very wrong for Portugal way before. In the 25th minute, the talisman Cristiano Ronaldo faced a rough challenge from Dimitri Payet, and he was subbed off injured. However, Eder came off the bench in the 79th minute of the Final but the 90-minute of play ended in a stalemate of a 0-0 scoreline.

But it was Eder, who only played 13 minutes in the tournament, stepped up and broke the deadlock to score the only goal in the final in the 109th minute. France could not produce a comeback as Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo lifted their first-ever major international trophy.

Ilkay Gundogan

(Manchester City vs Aston Villa, 2021-22 Premier League)

Substitutions that changed the football history-sportzpoint.com

It was a neck-to-neck battle between Manchester City and Liverpool in the 2021-22 Premier League title race. Before heading into the last matchday on 22 May 2022, Manchester City was atop the table with 90 points in 37 matches and Liverpool was positioned just behind with 89 points in the same number of games.

Manchester City was set to face Aston Villa in the last match of the season and a win would ensure their fourth consecutive PL title. However, things did not go as planned for Pep Guardiola's men as Matty Cash scored for Villa in the 37th minute, and Philippe Coutinho extended the lead in the 69th minute. Coincidentally, Ilkay Gundogan replaced Bernardo Silva just one minute before Villa's second goal. Man City's title contender Liverpool was playing Wolves at the same time and they were held to a 1-1 draw after 70 minutes.

What happened afterward will always be written in golden words in the Premier League's history. It was Ilkay Gundogan who scored City's first goal in the 76th minute as his powerful header went in. Just two minutes later, Rodri placed a powerful strike to level the scoreline by 2-2 and City was back on top of the table.

It did not take much time for Gundogan to score his second and City's third as he put the ball inside with a close-range tap-in to almost win the league for City! The match eventually ended as City won the game by 3-2 and clinched their fourth consecutive PL title, all thanks to the German's magic after coming off the bench. 

Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 

(Manchester United vs Bayern Munich, 1998-99 UCL Final)

Substitutions that changed the football history-sportzpoint.com

The world witnessed one of the greatest UCL finals ever on 27 May 1999 when Manchester United and Bayern Munich faced off for the coveted glory. Manchester United won the game by 2-1 in such an otherworldly manner that it still mesmerizes the next generation, and everything happened because of two substitute players, Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Bayern Munich took an early by scoring in the 6th minute of the match. Manchester United could not break the deadlock and headed into the break trailing 0-1. Teddy Sheringham replaced Jesper Blomqvist in the 67th minute and Solskjaer was brought in by Sir Alex Ferguson to replace Andy Cole in the 81st minute. 

The game was in favour of Bayern even after 90 minutes but Sheringham slotted the ball home in just one minute into the injury time to equalize for the Red Devils. Solskjaer achieved the final glory with a simple tap-in only after two minutes, and thus the two substitutes led United to the Champions League victory.

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