Top Players Who have Played for Both Arsenal and Liverpool
When it comes to English football, few clubs have as much history and rivalry as Arsenal and Liverpool. Over the years, some players have had the unique experience of wearing both the famous red of Liverpool and the cannon of Arsenal. Here’s a look at the top names who’ve represented both giants.
Kolo Touré
The Ivorian defender is the most well-known crossover between the two. Touré played 7 seasons at Arsenal, making 285 appearances and becoming part of the legendary “Invincibles.” Later, he spent 3 seasons at Liverpool, adding 67 matches to his record. A rock at the back, Touré earned respect at both clubs.
Raheem Sterling
Before he became a star at Manchester City, Sterling made his name at Liverpool, where he played 4 seasons (119 matches). Less remembered is his late spell at Arsenal, featuring in 1 season with 28 matches on loan from Chelsea.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
“The Ox” enjoyed a long run with both sides. He made 181 appearances in 7 seasons at Arsenal, known for his pace and versatility. His move to Liverpool proved fruitful, where he added 148 matches across 7 seasons, collecting a Premier League and Champions League medal.
Nicolas Anelka
One of football’s ultimate journeymen, Anelka had a short but bright spell at Arsenal, 3 seasons and 72 matches, helping the Gunners win a league and cup double in 1998. He later joined Liverpool on loan, playing 20 games in a single season.
Yossi Benayoun
The Israeli midfielder had creativity in abundance. At Liverpool, he spent 3 seasons with 120 matches, producing some key European nights. Later, he crossed over to Arsenal for a brief loan, adding 22 appearances in a single season.
List of all players who have played for both Liverpool and Arsenal
| Player | Liverpool FC (Years) | Matches | Minutes | Goals | Assists | Arsenal FC (Years) | Matches | Minutes | Goals | Assists |
| Nicolas Anelka | 2001 | 20 | 1263 | 4 | 2 | 1996–1998 | 72 | 4948 | 24 | 12 |
| Yossi Benayoun | 2007–2009 | 120 | 7035 | 25 | 18 | 2011 | 22 | 1100 | 5 | 1 |
| Jimmy Carter | 1991 | 1 | 12 | 0 | 0 | 1992–1994 | 19 | 1158 | 2 | 0 |
| Taylor Hinds | 2022–2024 | 60 | 5044 | 4 | 4 | 2017 | 0 | – | – | – |
| Carla Humphrey | 2022 | 8 | 100 | 0 | 0 | 2017 | 2 | 39 | 0 | 0 |
| Alex Manninger | 2016 | 0 | – | – | – | 1997–2000 | 47 | 4184 | 0 | 0 |
| Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain | 2017–2022 | 148 | 6730 | 18 | 14 | 2011–2017 | 181 | 9250 | 17 | 23 |
| Jermaine Pennant | 2006–2008 | 72 | 4089 | 3 | 10 | 2001–2004 | 15 | 425 | 3 | 1 |
| Raheem Sterling | 2011–2014 | 119 | 8692 | 22 | 16 | 2024 | 28 | 1147 | 1 | 5 |
| Michael Thomas | 1992–1997 | 111 | 7827 | 6 | 5 | 1991 | 2 | 99 | 0 | 0 |
| Kolo Touré | 2013–2015 | 67 | 4699 | 1 | 2 | 2002–2008 | 285 | 23058 | 11 | 1 |
Final Thoughts
Switching between Arsenal and Liverpool isn’t common, but these players left their mark at both clubs. From Touré’s defensive solidity to Anelka’s sharp finishing and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s trophy-laden years, their stories show how football careers often take unexpected turns.
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