Samuel Eto’o: I Almost Joined Arsenal In 2004, But Wenger Chose Reyes

By The Editor
on 8th September 2024

Samuel Eto’o almost became a Gooner…

Iconic striker Samuel Eto’o revealed on a recent podcast that he was close to joining Arsenal in 2004 during his Mallorca stint, but Arsene Wenger opted to sign Jose Antonio Reyes instead.

Eto’o is one of the most decorated strikers in the history of the game and one of a handful capable of legitimately arguing that they were better than Gunners icon Thierry Henry.

According to the Cameroonian, Wenger wanted to pair the aforementioned duo in north London during the ‘Invincible season’. However, a deal was concluded in January for our then-record signing Jose Reyes.

Eto’o would eventually join Barcelona ahead of the 2004/05 season and he was part of a historic dynasty during his time in Catalunya. The former Chelsea man won two European Cups at Camp Nou, including playing an integral part in Pep Guardiola’s infamous treble-winning side in 2009.

“I was going to sign for Arsenal when I was at Mallorca, but in the end, the coach Arsene Wenger decided to choose Jose Antonio Reyes – may he rest in peace,” Eto’o told The Bridge.

“Those around me were shocked and worried. I said, ‘Hold on, I’m the best.’

“Anyway, Arsenal was small for me. In fact, I thought I was better than everyone else. For those around me, Arsenal was the best. Thierry Henry and all – ‘I said no.'”

This may be the first time we’re getting a player’s version of the cliche ‘I was almost signed by Wenger’ story with the Frenchman’s list of near-misses becoming rather extensive.

In hindsight, Eto’o would go on to score the most painful goal Arsenal have conceded in living memory as he dragged his Barcelona side level in the 2006 Champions League final.