London rivalries don’t get more intense than Arsenal vs. Chelsea. Yet, over the years, several top-tier players have worn both the red of the Emirates and
the blue of Stamford Bridge. Whether switching loyalties caused controversy or came quietly, these stars made their mark on both sides of the capital.
With Noni Madueke and Kepa Arrizabalaga the latest to feature for both clubs (2025), Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta has offered a calm take:
“They have some great players, and a lot of players. It’s probably a coincidence.”
Still, there’s no denying the consistent flow of talent across London. Let’s build the Ultimate Combined XI of players who've represented both Arsenal and Chelsea, based on performance, longevity, and legacy.
🧤 Goalkeeper
1. Petr Čech
Chelsea: 494 appearances, 4x Premier League, 1x UCL
Arsenal: 139 appearances, 3x FA Cup
🔒 The ultimate keeper of the Premier League era, Čech was elite for both clubs, earning respect across London.
🛒 Top Pick for Fan: Buy Petr Čech's Signed Memorabilia
🛡️ Defenders
2. William Gallas
Chelsea: 225 games
Arsenal: 142 games, captain
Known for his versatility and odd choice of the #10 shirt at Arsenal, Gallas had a strong presence at both clubs.
3. David Luiz
Chelsea: 248 games, 1x UCL, 2x Europa League
Arsenal: 73 games, FA Cup winner
A walking highlight reel (for better or worse), Luiz brought flair and chaos in equal measure.
4. Ashley Cole
Arsenal: 228 games, 2x Premier League
Chelsea: 337 games, 1x UCL, 1x PL
Arguably England’s best-ever left-back, Cole’s transfer to Chelsea was dramatic, but his trophy cabinet grew quickly in blue.
🎯 Midfielders
5. Cesc Fàbregas
Arsenal: 303 games, captain
Chelsea: 198 games, 2x Premier League titles
A magician on the ball and tactical mastermind, Fàbregas left a lasting impression on both sides.
6. Jorginho
Chelsea: 213 games, UCL 2021 winner
Arsenal: 79 games by 2025
Calm, composed, and intelligent. Jorginho remains one of Arteta's smartest acquisitions.
7. Emmanuel Petit
Arsenal: 118 games, Double winner (1997/98)
Chelsea: 76 games
A French maestro who defined Arsenal’s midfield with Vieira, then added experience to Chelsea’s ranks.
⚡ Attackers
8. Kai Havertz
Chelsea: 139 games, scored in 2021 UCL final
Arsenal: Versatile midfield/attack role
Arteta’s project gave Havertz new life. From UCL winner to midfield utility man, he's become crucial at the Emirates.
9. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Arsenal: 163 games, 92 goals, 1x FA Cup
Chelsea: 21 games
Aubameyang’s Arsenal peak was thrilling, but his Chelsea stint was forgettable — a tale of two halves.
10. Nicolas Anelka
Arsenal: 90 games, 28 goals
Chelsea: 184 games, 59 goals
From teenage sensation to veteran striker, Anelka delivered goals in both red and blue.
11. Olivier Giroud
Arsenal: 253 games, 105 goals, 3x FA Cups
Chelsea: 119 games, UCL, Europa League winner
The model professional. Giroud scored vital goals, lifted trophies, and did it with class on both sides of London.
🧠 Manager's Quote: Mikel Arteta on Chelsea Links
“We try to focus on the players that we want to sign, regardless of the club they are in.”
⚽ Honorable Mentions
Lassana Diarra
Yossi Benayoun
David Rocastle
Noni Madueke (2025 addition)
Kepa Arrizabalaga (loan move 2025)
💡 Did You Know?
Ashley Cole was once fined for tapping up by Chelsea during his Arsenal contract.
Petr Čech returned to Chelsea as a technical advisor after retiring.
Cesc Fàbregas has been involved in youth coaching post-retirement.
📣 Share Your Thoughts!
Who was the best player to represent both clubs?
Who committed the biggest betrayal?
Tag us and vote on
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