Arsenal Transfers: 10 Greatest Ever Foreign Imports

2. Patrick Vieira

Vieira was Arsène Wenger's first signing, Wenger requested the transfer of the midfielder for £3.5 million before he had even joined Arsenal, and he went on to be one of his most important. Vieira formed a partnership with his compatriot Emmanuel Petit in the Gunners' midfield which was crucial to Arsenal's double win in 1998, Vieira's first full season. He was truly a unique player, combining power and athleticism with technical ability. He would win back possession with a bone crunching tackle before driving up the pitch to play a killer pass or unleash a powerful shot on goal. After winning the double again in 2002 Vieira took over from Tony Adams as captain and led Arsenal in perhaps their finest hour, the 2003/4 invincible season. His last act in the famous red and white was to score the winning penalty in the 2005 F.A. Cup Final against Manchester United, a fitting send off for one of Arsenal's greatest captains.
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A teenager born in London but living in Hertfordshire, Max is currently working through his A levels. He enjoys football, video games, and writing about himself in the third person.