21 Years Ago Today, Patrick Vieira Signed for Arsenal

It was a day many Arsenal fans will never forget. August 14th, 1996: Arsenal make a £3.5 million move for Milan midfielder Patrick Vieira. The 6’4 Frenchman, along with his compatriot Arsene Wenger, would shape the future of Arsenal Football Club for years to come. 406 appearances and 33 goals later, Vieira’s mastery of the midfield is why he is remembered as a legend at Arsenal. Vieira is ranked #5 on Arsenal’s list of 50 greatest players.

His accolades while at Arsenal from 1996-2005 include:

• 3 time Premier League winner (1998, 2002, 2004)
• 4 time Community Shield winner (1998, 1999, 2002, 2004)
• 4 time FA Cup winner (1998, 2002, 2003, 2005)
• Captain of the Arsenal Invincibles (49 unbeaten)
• World Cup winner (1998)
• European Championship winner (2000)
• Confederations Cup winner (2001)

If you were keeping track, that means Vieira led Arsenal to 2 doubles in 1998 and 2002. He was also part of the teams that won the league at White Hart Lane and Old Trafford. What a player.

Here are a few videos that help us remember why we consider Vieira one of the best:

That Tunnel Incident with Roy Keane

Vieira Lifts the 2004 Premier League Trophy

2005 FA Cup Final Winning Penalty

Vieira Compilation of Him Ruining Other Players

More Altercations with United

Ah, the memories.