Top 5 Arsenal players who left on a free transfer

#1 Robert Pires

Robert Pires

A part of Arsenal’s irresistible forward quartet in the early 2000s, Robert Pires was perhaps one of the most underrated players in the Premier League. And, though he encountered teething problems on his arrival, he still went on to become a valuable asset during the Gunners’ golden period.

Blessed with the ability to dance past defenders with ease, the Frenchman formed a telepathic understanding with Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry, meaning that he supplied the front duo with plenty of assists.

In the 2003-04 season, Pires dazzled with 7 assists whereas his astounding tally of 14 goals also enabled the Gunners to go an entire season undefeated.

However, akin to several of his teammates, the Frenchman also started waning a tad after that miraculous season, meaning that he fell out of favour with Arsene Wenger in 2005 and 2006.

Subsequently, the winger decided to not renew his contract in 2006 and departed for Villarreal on a free transfer that summer.