ARSENAL IN 2003: Exit David Seaman, enter Cesc Fabregas
The noughties has been one of the most significant decades in Arsenal s history. It ushered in a new home, it saw the Invincibles conquer all, and it brought Arsenal their first ever Champions League final. Jem Maidment looks back on an eventful ten years
The noughties has been one of the most significant decades in Arsenal's history. It ushered in a new home, it saw the Invincibles conquer all, and it brought Arsenal their first ever Champions League final.
Jem Maidment looks back on an eventful ten years.
2003:
John Carew proves Arsenal's Champions League tormenter again when he scores twice as Valenica win 2-1 to knock the Gunners out.
Back home, Arsenal relinquish the title after a 2-3 home defeat to Leeds and Wenger was quick to congratulate new champions Manchester United.
"They found their form at then right time and were the best team," he said.
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In the final home game, Jermaine Pennant scores three times in 11 minutes on his league debut as Southampton are beaten 6-1 at Highbury.
Nine days later he is dropped as the Gunners struggle to a 1-0 win over the Saints in the FA Cup final. Robert Pires' goal proved the difference.
David Seaman was skipper on his last appearance for the club and said: "After losing the title we were under big pressure to get this trophy and we got it."
Cesc Fabregas became the youngest ever player to represent the club at 16 years, 117 days. The following month he becomes the club's youngest ever scorer, netting against Wolves.