The Best Arsenal Wingers of All-Time

The Best Arsenal Wingers of All-Time

Arsenal Football Club is renowned for its exciting attacking style, and a wealth of quality wingers have played crucial roles in the club's history. From fast and skilful players to those who created scoring opportunities, these wingers have made a lasting impact, thrilling fans both at the Highbury Stadium in the past and now at the Emirates Stadium.

• Arsenal Top Goal Scorers of All-Time: Striking Legends.

Below Are The Best Arsenal Wingers in History

1. Joe Hulme: The Pre-War Wing Wizard

Joe Hulme was one of Herbert Chapman's significant signings for Arsenal in 1926. He played as a winger for twelve years, contributing to the team's success in the 1930s. Known for his pace and scoring prowess, he formed a formidable partnership with Cliff Bastin, aiding Arsenal in securing multiple FA Cup and First Division titles. Hulme's legacy remains remarkable despite later injuries, boasting 125 goals in 374 appearances. Trophies:

• Football League First Division: 1930–31, 1932–33, 1934–35

• FA Cup: 1929–30, 1935–36, 1931–32

• FA Charity Shield: 1930, 1931

2. George Armstrong: The Mr. Arsenal of the Wing

George Armstrong, a true Arsenal stalwart, amassed 621 appearances during his nearly two-decade playing career, excelling as a versatile winger and integral team player. Despite his prolific contributions to Arsenal's success, international recognition escaped him due to the era's tactical preferences. However, he returned to the North London club as a coach. Armstrong's coaching prowess and mentorship further solidified his legacy at the club, leaving an indelible mark as a beloved figure in Arsenal's history.

Trophies:

• Football League Cup: 1968–69

• Inter-Cities Fairs Cup: 1969–70

• Football League First Division: 1970–71

• FA Cup: 1970–71

3. Robert Pires: The French Magician

A key member of Arsenal's Invincibles, Robert Pires epitomised elegance on the wing. Despite initial struggles, the Frenchman's vision, precise passing, and knack for crucial goals made him a standout winger and earned him accolades such as the Football Writers' Footballer of the Year. Pires played a vital role in Arsenal's success during the early 2000s as he solidified his status as a club legend with these notable trophies at the Highbury Stadium.

Trophies:

• Premier League: 2001–02, 2003–04

• FA Cup: 2002–03, 2004–05

4. John Radford: The Versatile Forward

John Radford, a versatile and dynamic player for Arsenal, seamlessly transitioned between roles as a winger and striker. Renowned for his speed, ball control, and goal-scoring prowess, the Yorkshire man left an impact on the club between 1962 and 1976, playing 481 matches and scoring 149 goals as he sits fourth in Arsenal's top goalscorers of all time list behind Cliff Bastin, Ian Wright and Thierry Henry. Radford's unwavering dedication epitomised Arsenal's values, solidifying his place as one of the finest wingers in the club's history

Trophies:

• First Division: 1970–71

• FA Cup: 1970–71

• Inter-Cities Fairs Cup: 1969–70

5. Freddie Ljungberg: The Swedish Dynamite

Freddie Ljungberg's energetic displays and eye for goal endeared him to Arsenal fans. A key figure in the Invincibles season, Ljungberg's versatility and ability to score in crucial moments made him a fan favourite on the wing. His Premier League stats boast % shooting accuracy of 42%, with 241 appearances, 48 goals, 128 wins, and 55 losses.

Trophies:

• Premier League: 2001–02, 2003–04

• FA Cup: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2004–05

• FA Charity Shield: 1999

6. Sylvain Wiltord: The Double Clincher

Sylvain Wiltord, a notable figure in Arsenal's history, played for the club from 2000 to 2004. During his time at Arsenal, Wiltord showcased his versatility up front and goal-scoring ability, contributing significantly to the team's success. He scored 49 goals during 175 matches for the club (with a shooting accuracy of 33% in the Premier League. Wiltord's time at Arsenal is fondly remembered for his dedication and crucial goals in crucial moments. Notably, he played a vital role in helping the Gunners clinch the double at Old Trafford under the management of Arsène Wenger, solidifying his place among the club's esteemed players.

Trophies:

• Premier League: 2001–02, 2003–04

• FA Cup: 2001–02, 2002–03

• FA Community Shield: 2002

7. Perry Groves - The Arsenal Spark

Perry Groves, originally known as a winger, demonstrated remarkable versatility and dedication during his tenure at Arsenal from 1986 to 1992 under the management of George Graham. He seamlessly adapted to different attacking positions as the team's needs dictated. Groves's unwavering work ethic, passion, and commitment to the club resonated deeply with Arsenal supporters, earning him their admiration.

His contributions made him a valuable asset. Although he may not be hailed as one of the most celebrated wingers in Arsenal's history, Groves's undeniable impact on the club's success and his fervent love for the Gunners justify his inclusion on any list of Arsenal's greatest wingers of all-time.

Trophies:

• Football League First Division: 1988–89, 1990–91

• Football League Cup: 1986–87

• Football League Centenary Trophy: 1988

8. Marc Overmars: The Dutch Speedster

Marc Overmars was the embodiment of blistering pace and clinical finishing. A crucial part of the Double-winning team in 1997-98, Overmars' ability to stretch defences and contribute with vital goals earned him a place among Arsenal's finest wingers. He spent three seasons from 1997–2000 with the Gunners before sealing a move to Barcelona.

Trophies:

• Premier League: 1997–98

• FA Cup: 1997–98

• FA Charity Shield: 1998

9. Anders Limpar: The Swedish Swivel-Hips

Anders Limpar, dubbed "The Swedish Swivel-Hips," left a lasting impression on Arsenal in the early 1990s. Known for his flair and exceptional dribbling, he was vital in Arsenal's league title victory in the 1990–91 season, scoring crucial goals despite facing injuries and disagreements with manager George Graham. Limpar's 116 appearances for Arsenal included 20 goals, solidifying his place in the club's history.

Notable Trophy:

• First Division: 1990–91

10. Theo Walcott: The Speed Merchant

Theo Walcott's searing pace and goal-scoring instinct made him a dynamic presence on the wing for Arsenal. Walcott's ability to stretch defences and provide a goal threat added a different dimension to Arsenal's attacking play. Over 12 years with the club, Walcott accumulated 397 appearances and netted 108 goals, adding a different dimension to Arsenal's attacking play.

Trophies:

• FA Cup: 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17

• FA Community Shield: 2015, 2017

Bonus - Andrey Arshavin: The Russian Dynamo

Andrey Arshavin, the enigmatic Russian winger, made a lasting impression at Arsenal Football Club. Signed in 2009 after a successful decade at Zenit Saint Petersburg, Arshavin brought flair, creativity, and a lethal left foot to the Emirates Stadium. His ability to unlock defences with incisive passes and stunning goals endeared him to the Arsenal faithful.

• Left Flank Legends: Arsenal's 10 Best Left-Backs of All Time.

Despite occasional inconsistency, Arshavin's moments of brilliance, such as his four-goal masterpiece against Liverpool at Anfield, showcased his immense talent. Though his time at Arsenal was relatively short-lived compared to some of the club's other wingers, Arshavin's impact was profound.

In conclusion, Arsenal's history boasts a lineage of remarkable wingers who dazzled fans with their flair, pace, and goal-scoring prowess. From the dazzling performances at Highbury to the modern-day Emirates Stadium, these best Arsenal wingers of all time helped shape the club's attacking ethos and continue to inspire current generations like Bukayo Saka.

• The Best British Footballers That Played Abroad.

Their legacy is a timeless reminder of the club's commitment to thrilling football and excellence. As Arsenal charts its course for future triumphs, the spirit of these wing wizards remains a guiding force, ensuring that their impact endures for years to come.

Follow Think Football Ideas across our social channels, on Facebook, X [Twitter] and Instagram.