When Arsenal and Liverpool clash at the Emirates, it’s not just a battle for three points, it’s a celebration of the shared history, unforgettable moments, and the unique bond forged by players who’ve had the privilege of playing for both these legendary clubs
Arsenal and Liverpool, two English football titans, will square off at the Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2024, in what promises to be a battle of aspirations. As things stand, the Premier League standings reflect a fierce struggle at the top. Liverpool leads the table with 21 points, having won all but one of their eight games thus far. Arsenal isn't far behind, sitting third with 17 points, four back. The stakes are enormous, as is the excitement.
Mikel Arteta is ready for Arsenal vs. Liverpool 💪 pic.twitter.com/AyJUTpVlw0
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) October 23, 2024
While current standings and statistics frequently dominate headlines, a fascinating underlying connects these two historic clubs: a story of players who have worn both Arsenal and Liverpool's red jerseys. From era-defining luminaries to modern-day stars, here are five outstanding players who have bridged this historic barrier.
Kolo Touré's biography is one of the most extraordinary examples of achievement and dedication. Kolo rose quickly after signing from ASEC Mimosas for an easy £150,000. He began as a defensive midfielder, occasionally playing as a right-back, before discovering his real calling at the heart of Arsenal's defence. He quickly established his spot with Sol Campbell in Arsenal's renowned "Invincibles" group of 2003-04, which won the Premier League without losing a single game.
Unfortunately, all beautiful things must come to an end. After a reported altercation with defensive partner William Gallas, Touré joined Manchester City for £14 million in 2009. When Liverpool called a year later, Touré responded, taking his experience to Anfield. Although he wasn't a regular starter, he was a consistent fixture, helping Liverpool reach the Europa League final in 2016.
Ray Kennedy is a name that resonates well with Arsenal and Liverpool supporters. Kennedy scored 71 goals in 272 appearances for Arsenal, helping the club win the 1970-71 double. He was a consistent goal scorer, a team captain, and a crowd favourite at Highbury.
But Kennedy's journey wasn't done. In 1974, he joined Liverpool for a then-record cost of £200,000. He hit his stride at Anfield, winning five league crowns and three European Cups.
Before Ray Kennedy, there was Geoff Strong. The Kirkheaton native stood out for his consistency and talent. Despite Arsenal's lack of success at the time, Strong scored an impressive 77 goals in 137 games from 1960 to 1964.
Liverpool bought Strong for £40,000 in 1964, and he won the FA Cup in 1965 and the First Division title in 1966.
You can't talk about Arsenal or Liverpool without mentioning Michael Thomas. A childhood Tottenham supporter, Thomas began his professional career at Arsenal in 1982. He became a regular starter in 1987, earning 208 games over seven years. However, his biggest achievement occurred during the 1988-89 season.
Arsenal needed two goals at Anfield to win the league, and Thomas delivered in the last stages of the game. His last-gasp goal grabbed the title from Liverpool, ending Arsenal's 18-year league wait. But football has a way of shifting pages, and in December 1991, he joined Liverpool, where he remained until 1998, establishing his name on both sides of this legendary rivalry.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, the most recent member of this distinguished list, was Arsenal's record sale at £35 million when he joined Liverpool in 2017. "The Ox" was an essential figure at the Emirates, known for his flexibility and quickness. He played in numerous positions. However, injuries and a desire for greater playing time prompted him to seek a fresh challenge at Anfield.
Under Jürgen Klopp, Oxlade-Chamberlain thrived in his favoured offensive midfield role, even helping Liverpool reach the Champions League final in 2018. Unfortunately, an ACL injury kept him out of play for over a year.
