The rivalry between Arsenal and Chelsea is one of the most intense in English football, stretching back to their first clash in 1907.
Over the years, the North West London Derby has grown into a fixture that captures the attention of football fans around the world.
Despite the fierce competition, several notable players have graced both clubs. Pulse Sports highlights some of the standout footballers who have donned the shirts of both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas is one of the most prominent players to have represented both Arsenal and Chelsea. At Arsenal, Fabregas was a young prodigy, showcasing his exceptional talent in midfield. After making a high-profile move to Chelsea in 2014, he enjoyed significant success, winning two Premier League titles and several other trophies. Fabregas’s vision and playmaking abilities made him a key figure at both clubs.
Ashley Cole, one of the best left-backs of his generation, started his career at Arsenal. He was instrumental in the team’s defensive line and won multiple titles, including two Premier League titles. Cole’s move to Chelsea marked the beginning of another successful chapter, where he continued to excel, helping the Blues win a Premier League title and the Champions League among other honors.
Legendary goalkeeper Petr Cech had an illustrious career at Chelsea, where he became one of the Premier League’s best-ever goalkeepers. His time at Stamford Bridge was marked by numerous trophies, including the Champions League. Cech continued his career at Arsenal, where he added more silverware to his collection, including an FA Cup and two Community Shields.
French striker Nicolas Anelka enjoyed successful spells at both Arsenal and Chelsea. At Arsenal, he was part of the squad that won the Premier League and FA Cup. His return to English football with Chelsea saw him win a Premier League title, two FA Cups, and a Community Shield. Anelka’s skill and goalscoring ability were crucial for both teams during his tenures.
Brazilian defender David Luiz had two separate stints at Chelsea, during which he won numerous titles including the Premier League and the Champions League. His move to Arsenal in 2019 brought him additional success, including an FA Cup and a Community Shield, demonstrating his ability to make an impact across both clubs.
Brazilian winger Willian was a key player for Chelsea during his seven-year tenure, where he won multiple Premier League titles and other domestic trophies. His move to Arsenal in 2020 brought experience and skill to the Gunners’ squad, although he did not win any trophies during his brief spell with the club.
French midfielder Emmanuel Petit was instrumental in Arsenal’s success at the turn of the century, helping the team to a Premier League title and an FA Cup. His time at Chelsea was less successful, but he remains notable for his contributions to both clubs during his career.
Israeli midfielder Yossi Benayoun had a brief loan spell at Arsenal while being a Chelsea player. Although he enjoyed more success with Chelsea, including a Europa League win, his time at Arsenal was marked by his ability to add depth to the midfield.
David Rocastle is remembered fondly by Arsenal fans for his contributions to the team’s league victories and other successes. His later career saw him play for Chelsea, although he did not achieve the same level of success at Stamford Bridge.
Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang made a significant impact at Arsenal, helping them win an FA Cup. His subsequent move to Chelsea was less impactful, but he remains a notable player who has represented both top London clubs.
