Arsenal Football Club, a beacon of footballing prowess, has witnessed the brilliance of numerous strikers throughout its storied history. From legendary goal-scorers to charismatic forwards, the club's all-time story is adorned with the exploits of these remarkable players.
In this article, we delve into the careers of the top goal scorers in Arsenal's history, exploring their achievements, memorable moments, and the unique attributes that made them legends in the eyes of Gunners fans worldwide.
Here Are The Top and Best Arsenal Goal Scorers in History
1. Thierry Henry (288 Goals)
Undoubtedly Arsenal's goal-scoring crown jewel, Thierry Henry, with 228 goals in 377 games, earned the nickname "The King" for his dominance on the pitch. Boasting an impressive 0.60 goals per match and 134 minutes per goal in the league, his clinical finishing defines his legacy. Memorable moments include a breathtaking solo goal against Tottenham Hotspur and a key role in Arsenal's Invincibles season. As the Gunners' highest Premier League goalscorer with 175 goals, Henry has left an unparalleled impact on the club's history.
2. Ian Wright (185 Goals)
Taking the number two spot in Arsenal's top scorers of all time is a true Arsenal icon, Ian Wright, whose explosive goal-scoring prowess saw him net 185 goals in 288 games during his time at the North club. Nicknamed "Wrighty," he possessed a remarkable strike rate of 0.62 goals per match in the league, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history. Wright also ranks second in Arsenal's all-time Premier League goal scorers with 104 goals. Wright's memorable moments include breaking Cliff Bastin's goal-scoring record and his heroics in Arsenal's cup triumphs.
3. Cliff Bastin (178 Goals)
In an era preceding the modern age of football, Cliff Bastin stood out as a prolific goal-scorer for Arsenal. His goal-scoring exploits during the 1930s, including two league titles and an FA Cup, established him as a pre-war phenomenon. Bastin's lethal left foot and goal-scoring consistency remain imprinted in Arsenal's history. The indomitable Cliff Bastin, with 178 goals in 396 games, etched his name in Arsenal's saga alongside other luminaries like John Radford, Jimmy Brain, and Ted Drake, each contributing unique chapters to the club's goal-scoring narrative.
4. John Radford (149 Goals)
John Radford's loyalty and goal-scoring prowess make him a significant icon in Arsenal's history. A part of the famous Double-winning team in 1970-71, Radford's ability to score crucial goals in big matches endeared him to the fans. His commitment to the club spanned over a decade, showcasing his enduring impact. John Radford contributed 149 goals in 481 games, leaving a lasting impression on Arsenal's goal-scoring history.
5. Jimmy Brain (139 Goals)
Jimmy Brain, with 139 goals in 232 games from 1952-1962, is a testament to Arsenal's rich history of prolific goal scorers. His remarkable goal-scoring consistency during the 1950s showcases his enduring impact on the club, contributing to Arsenal's success and leaving an indelible mark on the memories of Gunners fans.
6. Ted Drake (173 Goals)
Ted Drake's goal-scoring prowess during the 1930s is legendary. Drake's highlight includes a remarkable feat of scoring seven goals in a match against Aston Villa in 1935, a record in English football. His contributions played a pivotal role in Arsenal's success, securing league titles and establishing Drake as one of the best strikers of his generation. Ted Drake's remarkable 173 goals in 184 games showcase a top level of goal-scoring efficiency that cements his legacy in Arsenal's history.
7 Doug Lishman (137 Goals)
Doug Lishman, with 137 goals in 244 games, played a significant role in Arsenal's goal-scoring legacy. Lishman's time at the club, characterised by his goal-scoring prowess and commitment, crafted a lasting legacy within Arsenal's history, making him a respected figure among the Gunners goal-scoring elite.
8. Robin van Persie (132 Goals)
The Dutch striker, Robin van Persie, showcased lethal finishing skills during his Arsenal tenure, amassing 132 goals in 278 games. Renowned for his elegance on the ball, van Persie boasted a goals-per-match ratio of 0.47 and a minutes-per-goal ratio of 142 in the Premier League, highlighting his clinical edge. Unforgettable goals, such as the volley against Charlton Athletic, solidified his status as one of Arsenal's best strikers in history. He also holds the third spot among Arsenal's all-time Premier League goalscorers.
9. Joe Hulme (125 Goals)
Joe Hulme, initially a winger, transitioned into a central striking role and left an enduring impact on Arsenal. A key figure in the 1930s, Hulme's goal-scoring abilities and footballing intelligence contributed to Arsenal's success in securing multiple league titles. Joe Hulme's contributions, marked by 125 goals in 374 games, are integral to Arsenal's goal-scoring legacy.
Arsenal's all-time top scorers: where every goal is a chapter in the epic tale of Gunners glory, etching their names in the annals of football history with every strike.
10. David Jack (124 Goals)
David Jack's contributions to Arsenal during the interwar period were instrumental in the club's success. He was the interwar icon, a quality goal-scorer and a vital part of the team that secured the club's first league title in 1930-31, Jack's legacy is embedded in Arsenal's early history as a dominant force in English football. David Jack's 124 goals in 208 games contributed significantly to Arsenal's history of prolific goal scorers.
11. Dennis Bergkamp (120 Goals)
An artist on the ball, Dennis Bergkamp's vision and technique set him apart. With 120 goals in 423 games, the Dutchman's nickname, "The Non-Flying Dutchman," pays tribute to his aversion to air travel. Bergkamp's unique style, showcased in memorable moments like his goal against Newcastle United, left an enduring legacy at Arsenal.
12. Reg Lewis (118 Goals)
Reg Lewis, with 118 goals in 176 games, made significant contributions to Arsenal's goal-scoring history. His prolific scoring ability, especially during the post-war era, was vital in the team's achievements. Lewis's prowess in front of goal and his dedication to the club solidified his place among Arsenal's legendary goal scorers.
13. Alan Smith (115 Goals)
A talismanic figure for Arsenal, Alan Smith's 115 goals in 347 games [from 1961-1968] showcased his goal-scoring prowess. Nicknamed "Smudger," Smith's memorable moments include scoring a goal in the 1994 European Cup Winners' Cup final. With a 0.34 goals-per-match ratio in the Premier League, Smith's contributions were invaluable.
14. Jack Lambert (109 Goals)
Jack Lambert's 109 goals in 161 games solidified his place as one of Arsenal's notable goal scorers, showcasing his exceptional scoring consistency and lasting impact on the club's rich football history.
15. Frank Stapleton (108 Goals)
Frank Stapleton's versatility as a forward allowed him to excel in various attacking roles for Arsenal. A key figure in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Stapleton's goal-scoring exploits contributed to FA Cup and Cup Winners' Cup success. His ability to adapt and consistently find the back of the net makes him a noteworthy presence in Arsenal's striking history. Frank Stapleton's 108 goals in 300 games reflect his consistent goal-scoring ability at Arsenal.
16. Theo Walcott (108 Goals)
Theo Walcott, with 108 goals in 397 games to his name, brought pace and flair to the Arsenal attack. Nicknamed "Speedy Walcott," his memorable moments include his hat-trick against Newcastle United. While his 0.27 goals per match might seem modest, Walcott's impact on the pitch was immeasurable.
16. David Herd (107 Goals)
David Herd, with 107 goals in 180 games, added his mark to the rich legacy of Arsenal's goal-scoring history. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and contributions during the 1950s, Heard's legacy extends beyond the numbers, embodying the spirit and skill that define Arsenal's storied history.
17. Olivier Giroud (105 Goals)
Olivier Giroud, now plying his trade at AC Milan, left an indelible mark at Arsenal with 105 goals in 253 games. Nicknamed "La Grinta" for his determination, Giroud's towering headers and crucial goals defined his Arsenal career. His memorable moments include the scorpion kick goal against Crystal Palace.
18. Joe Baker (100 Goals)
Joe Baker's 100 goals in 156 games further contribute to Arsenal's legacy of prolific goal scorers. Baker's impact on the pitch was beyond numbers; his clinical finishing and memorable goals endeared him to the Arsenal faithful, making him a cherished figure in the club's goal-scoring narrative.
Conclusion
Arsenal's best and top goal scorers have etched their names into the club's history with their unique styles, memorable moments, and unwavering commitment. As the Gunners continue to evolve, the legacy of these goal-scoring legends is a source of inspiration for future generations of Arsenal players and fans alike.
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