Arsenal entered Old Trafford on 24 October 2004 as football's untouchables, riding a 49-game unbeaten run in the Premier League that had earned them the legendary title of "The Invincibles." Their imperious form had seen them steamroll through the 2003/04 campaign without a single defeat, a feat unseen in English top-flight football since the late 19th century. But all good things must come to an end, and on a fiery afternoon in Manchester, Arsenal’s record-breaking streak came crashing down in controversial fashion.
Some moments in football are destined to go down in history, and Wayne Rooney’s UEFA Champions League debut for Manchester United on 28 September 2004 was one such moment. At just 18 years old, Rooney delivered a performance that left fans in awe, announcing his arrival on the grandest European stage. Facing Turkish giants Fenerbahçe at Old Trafford, Rooney not only scored a hat-trick but also laid on an assist, leading United to a commanding 6–2 victory.
The 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season encapsulated the best of Premier League football. It was a year defined by Manchester United’s treble, but players from across the league contributed moments of brilliance that shaped the season. From the defensive solidity of Sol Campbell and Jaap Stam to the attacking flair of David Ginola and Nicolas Anelka, this team was packed with talent that would go on to define an era of English football.
The legacy of this team endures, as many of these players became icons of the sport. Whether it was through their leadership, creativity, or goal-scoring prowess, each member of the 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season left an indelible mark on the history of the Premier League.
On August 28, 2011, Manchester United faced Arsenal at Old Trafford in what would become one of the most iconic matches in Premier League history. The game ended with an astonishing 8-2 victory for United, marking a day that Arsenal fans would rather forget, while Manchester United supporters celebrated an overwhelming display of dominance. This blog post will delve into the team lineups, the flow of the game, and the aftermath of this memorable encounter.
Widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of all time, Iker Casillas was in his prime in 2008. His shot-stopping ability, leadership, and consistency were instrumental in Spain's triumph at UEFA Euro 2008, where he captained La Roja to their first major international title in 44 years. Casillas' performances for Real Madrid were equally impressive, solidifying his reputation as "San Iker."