Arsenal: 20 Greatest Goals Of Last 20 Years

14. Robert Pires vs Aston Villa March 17, 2002

Skill: 4- Robert Pires was one of the most influential players to ever don an Arsenal shirt. The Frenchman’s smooth gait and effortless ball control made him one of the most enchanting footballers to watch. Pires just seemed to glide across the pitch. This goal is the ideal example of Pires’ ability to ghost in behind defenders and take advantage of one on one opportunities. His impudent chip of Peter Schmeichel is so absolutely Pires’ style. Oh and that diagonal pass by Freddie Ljungberg… sheesh

Opponent: 3- Aston Villa finished 8th at the end of the 2001-02 season. A far cry from the sorry state we find them in at present, but still, even back then they were not at the Gunner’s level.

Significance: 3- This was a hugely successful season for Arsenal. The Gunners claimed their third domestic double, reaching this goal for the second time under Arsene Wenger’s reign as manager. Every victory was important in this season. The Gunners were playing with a new found attacking exuberance brought about by Wenger’s revolutionary tactics. Pires was a huge discovery on Wenger’s part and this goal is the perfect reflection of this season.

Next: 13. Alexis Again!