Dennis Bergkamp

Dutchman Bergkamp began his career in his native country scoring an impressive 122 goals in 188 games in 7 seasons for Ajax Amsterdam. He was signed by Italians Inter Milan in the summer of 1993, however he suffered in unsuccessful two seasons in the Italian top flight scoring only 11 goals in 50 matches. Arsenal stepped in and signed Bergkamp in the summer of 1995 for £7.5M. He formed a successful initial partnership with Ian Wright, playing in the ‘hole’ providing supplies to the striker. Arsene Wenger’s arrival further revitalised him, scoring 16 goals in the 1997-98 season. Bergkamp scored a very memorable winning goal in the quarter final against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup. Bergkamp retired following Arsenal’s defeat in the 2005-06 Champion’s league final against Barcelona.

Nicolas Anelka

French striker Nicolas Anelka played less than three seasons at Arsenal but despite departing in controversial circumstances he left good memories for Arsenal and their supporters. In the end of 1996, Arsene Wenger signed French 17-year old unknown Anelka from Paris Saint-Germain for a £0.5M fee. Anelka made his way into the Arsenal first team in his second season and helped Arsenal win the FA cup and league double. In the following season Anelka won the PFA young player of the year award. Anelka will be remembered by Arsenal fans for his electric pace and excellent finishing. Noises from Anelka and his brothers came with hope of getting higher wages, causing discomfort in the Arsenal ranks. In the summer of 1999 he was sold to Real Madrid for a £22.3M fee. Anelka scored 23 goals in 65 games for Arsenal. Nocolas Anelka later had spells at PSG, Liverpool, Manchester City, Ferbehace and Bolton but has not been able to reproduce his Arsenal form.