Arsenal's most memorable cult heroes in the Champions League
In this article we focus on two of the biggest Champions League cult heroes across Arsenal’s footballing history. Whether it be crucial goals or standout moments, we shine a spotlight on those players responsible for some of the biggest moments across Arsenal's Champions League history.
Andrey Arshavin
Arsenal fans will always remember some of the biggest moments and most notable goals by their club in the Champions League. One of those was scored by a player who has cemented cult hero status among the Gunners faithful.
Whether it be in the English Premier League or the Champions League, Andrey Arshavin was always capable of popping up with a big goal during his four and a half years in North London.
When looking back of some of the greatest victories by Arsenal in the Champions League, their 2-1 win against Barcelona in 2011 stands out. Arsene Wenger's side had trailed at home to the Spanish giants who boasted the likes of Lionel Messi and David Villa, the latter scoring the opening goal.
But Arsenal rallied in the second half amid a raucous home crowd, drawing level courtesy of Robin van Persie, before Arshavin had his say. Having come off the bench in the 68th minute, Arshavin netted the winner for the Gunners with just seven minutes to go, stunning Pep Guardiola's men and ensuring Arshavin's place in Arsenal history.
Declan Rice
Whilst Declan Rice could easily be seen as an Arsenal legend once he eventually leaves the Gunners, right now you could argue that he already boasts cult hero status. This is due to his memorable individual performance in the first leg of Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final victory over Real Madrid.
No one had previously known Rice to be a free-kick specialist, but the England midfielder stunned the Emirates Stadium with two incredible first half free kicks which left goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance on both occasions.
That victory, which eventually led to Arsenal progression to the semi-finals, not to mention those Rice free-kicks ensured that whatever happens in the future, what he did that night will always be held in the highest regard by Arsenal fans.
