In the world of football, legends are born, and their legacies continue to be discussed and celebrated long after they’ve hung up their boots. Arsenal, a club renowned for its rich history and iconic players, has seen its fair share of footballing greats. Two names that often find themselves in the conversation are Thierry Henry and Nicolas Anelka. While both left an indelible mark on the club, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright recently stirred the pot by suggesting that the £22 million player Arsenal sold was even better than Thierry Henry.
Nicolas Anelka, a relatively unknown teenager when Arsène Wenger brought him to Arsenal, quickly blossomed into a sensation in the Premier League. Wright’s comments have ignited a debate among Arsenal fans and football enthusiasts alike, prompting a closer examination of Anelka’s brief yet impactful stint at the club.
Anelka’s arrival at Highbury in 1997 was met with curiosity, as many wondered if the young Frenchman could live up to the hype. Wenger, with his knack for unearthing talent, had seen something special in Anelka, and it didn’t take long for the world to see it too.
In just two seasons as a Gunner, Anelka played 87 times for Arsenal, scoring 28 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions. These numbers are particularly remarkable when you consider that Anelka was still a teenager during his time with the club. His electrifying pace, technical ability, and instinctive finishing made him a sensation in English football.
Thierry Henry, on the other hand, arrived at Arsenal in 1999 and went on to become one of the club’s all-time leading goal-scorers. His combination of skill, speed, and sheer brilliance in front of goal endeared him to fans worldwide. Henry’s legacy at Arsenal is beyond dispute, and he remains an icon of the sport.
Ian Wright’s comments about Anelka being better than Henry are not to be taken lightly. Wright, himself a legendary figure in Arsenal’s history, played alongside both players and has a unique perspective on their abilities. While it’s a matter of personal opinion, Wright’s statement underscores the immense talent that Anelka possessed.
In his words, he said, “When Anelka came and I saw him in the first session, I just started to pack up.”
“Bro, I’ve never seen anything like it, no one that quick. You speak to Thierry, Thierry was saying that when they were in Clairefontaine, he was the one they were all saying “oh my god!.” Because he is amazing. You saw that, when he came in at 17, you saw that!”
The debate over who was better, Anelka or Henry, is a testament to the enduring fascination with football’s greats. It’s also a reminder of the impact that these players had on the club and the Premier League as a whole. Anelka’s departure from Arsenal in 1999 marked the end of his time at the club, but his legacy remained intact.
After leaving Arsenal, Anelka’s career took him to various clubs across Europe, where he continued to showcase his talent. His journey in football was marked by success, including league titles with Real Madrid and Chelsea. Anelka’s versatility as a forward and his ability to adapt to different playing styles made him a sought-after asset for top clubs.
In hindsight, the discussion about whether Anelka was better than Henry is a testament to the incredible talent that graced Arsenal during that era. Both players left their mark on the club and the Premier League, and their contributions will forever be a part of footballing lore.
While the debate may never be settled definitively, one thing is clear: Arsenal fans were fortunate to witness the talents of both Thierry Henry and Nicolas Anelka during a period that is fondly remembered as one of the club’s most exciting and dynamic chapters in its history.
Rio Ferdinand then asked him who was better as a young talent – Henry or Anelka.
Wright quickly replied: “Anelka! Thierry would probably say that himself. If we’re talking about raw at that age, once I saw Anelka, I knew it was over!”
