:2004–05 Arsenal F.C. season

{{see also|2003–04 Arsenal F.C. season}}

Arsenal ended the previous season as league champions, becoming the first side since Preston North End 115 years earlier to do so undefeated.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/may/16/newsstory.premierleague200304 |title=Unbeaten Arsenal in football heaven |first=Kevin |last=Mitchell |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=15 May 2004 |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-date=29 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929124810/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/may/16/newsstory.premierleague200304 |url-status=live }} They completed their historic league campaign with 26 wins, 12 draws and 90 points.{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2003-2004 |title=Arsenal – 2003–2004 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924133056/http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2003-2004 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=dead }}

By the end of January 2004, Arsenal were still in the hunt for all four trophies, but suffered setbacks in each of the cup competitions; they were unable to retain the FA Cup, losing out to eventual winners Manchester United in the semi-finals and days later were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Chelsea in the quarter-finals.{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2376319/Bridges-late-decider-leaves-Arsenal-dreams-in-shreds.html |title=Bridge's late decider leaves Arsenal dreams in shreds |first=Henry |last=Winter |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=7 April 2004 |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-date=26 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150926005151/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2376319/Bridges-late-decider-leaves-Arsenal-dreams-in-shreds.html |url-status=live }} They exited the League Cup after a defeat to Middlesbrough in early February.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/3451565.stm |title=Middlesbrough 2–1 Arsenal |work=BBC Sport |date=7 April 2004 |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-date=5 April 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040405233913/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/3451565.stm |url-status=live }}

In

Out

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 17 July 2004

|time =

|team1 = Barnet

|score = 1–10

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Reyes {{goal|19||21||42}}
Van Persie {{goal|29}}
Bergkamp {{goal|44||67}}
Jeffers {{goal|53||55||64}}
Quincy Owusu-Abeyie {{goal|70}}

|location = London

|stadium = Underhill Stadium

|attendance = 4,674

|referee =

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 22 July 2004

|time =

|team1 = Maribor

|score = 2–3

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Bergkamp {{goal|4}}
Aliadière {{goal|17}}
Van Persie {{goal|84}}

|location = Maribor

|stadium = Ljudski vrt

|attendance = 5,000

|referee =

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 24 July 2004

|time =

|team1 = Grazer AK

|score = 1–2

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Bergkamp {{goal|6}}
Van Persie {{goal|57}}

|location = Graz

|stadium = UPC-Arena

|attendance =

|referee =

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 28 July 2004

|time =

|team1 = Sturm Graz

|score = 0–2

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Reyes {{goal|30|pen.}}
Jeffers {{goal|74}}

|location = Graz

|stadium = UPC-Arena

|attendance = 5,000

|referee =

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Amsterdam Tournament

|date = 30 July 2004

|time =

|team1 = River Plate

|score = 0–0

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Amsterdam

|stadium = Amsterdam Arena

|attendance = 20,000

|referee =

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Amsterdam Tournament

|date = 1 August 2004

|time =

|team1 = Ajax

|score = 0–0

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Amsterdam

|stadium = Amsterdam Arena

|attendance = 52,000

|referee =

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 3 August 2004

|time =

|team1 = Boreham Wood

|score = 1–1

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Stokes {{goal|47}}

|location = Borehamwood

|stadium = Meadow Park

|attendance = 5,000

|referee =

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Friendly

|date = 4 August 2004

|time =

|team1 = Beveren

|score = 0–0

|report =

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Beveren

|stadium = Freethiel Stadion

|attendance =

|referee =

|result = D

}}

{{main article|2004 FA Community Shield}}

The 2004 edition of the FA Community Shield, was contested between Manchester United and Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium on 8 August. Cesc Fàbregas started alongside Gilberto Silva in midfield for Arsenal as Vieira was absent, while Thierry Henry partnered Dennis Bergkamp up front.{{cite news |title=Clockwatch: Arsenal 3–1 Man Utd |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/3544736.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=8 August 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210147/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320507393&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2F3544736.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20Clockwatch%3A%20Arsenal%203-1%20Man%20Utd&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }} After a goalless first half, Arsenal took the lead when Gilberto scored in the 50th minute. Manchester United equalised through Alan Smith five minutes after, but José Antonio Reyes restored Arsenal's advantage two minutes before the hour mark. Mikaël Silvestre scored an own goal 11 minutes before the end to give Arsenal a 3–1 victory.{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2384307/Arsenal-show-there-is-life-beyond-Vieira.html |title=Arsenal show there is life beyond Vieira |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=9 August 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=23 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141023180916/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2384307/Arsenal-show-there-is-life-beyond-Vieira.html |url-status=live }} Wenger praised Fàbregas's performance after the match, describing the midfielder as a "complete player" and reiterated his desire to keep Vieira.{{cite news |title=Arsenal aim for rollover |url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/arsenal-aim-for-rollover-dkg9f3b8v2n |first=Matt |last=Dickinson |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=9 August 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808082530/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/article2276101.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}}

{{main article|2004–05 FA Premier League}}

A total of 20 teams competed in the Premier League in the 2004–05 season. Each team played 38 matches; two against every other team and one match at each club's stadium. Three points were awarded for each win, one point per draw, and none for defeats. At the end of the season the top two teams qualified for the group stages of the UEFA Champions League; teams in third and fourth needed to play a qualifier.{{cite news |url=http://www.premierleague.com/fapl.rac?command=setSelectedId&nextPage=enSpecFeatures&id=3304&type=com.fapl.website.features.SpecialFeature&categoryCode=CompetitionExplained&breadcrumb= |title=Rules of the Barclays Premiership competition |publisher=Premier League |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060511145346/http://www.premierleague.com/fapl.rac?command=setSelectedId&nextPage=enSpecFeatures&id=3304&type=com.fapl.website.features.SpecialFeature&categoryCode=CompetitionExplained&breadcrumb= |archive-date=11 May 2006}} The provisional fixture list was released on 24 June 2004, but was subject to change in the event of clashes with other competitions, international football, inclement weather, or matches being selected for television coverage.{{cite news |title=Chelsea face Man Utd |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3835401.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=24 June 2004 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=7 July 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040707224817/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3835401.stm |url-status=live }}

File:Goalmouth action at Highbury - geograph.org.uk - 1612788.jpg

Arsenal began their defence of the league title against Everton on 15 August 2004. Fàbregas was named in the first eleven; at 17 years 103 days he became the club's youngest ever Premier League player.{{cite news |title=Supreme Arsenal set gold standard |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/16/match.sport3 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Daniel |last=Taylor |date=16 August 2004 |access-date=4 April 2013 |archive-date=20 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020121340/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/16/match.sport3 |url-status=live }} It was Bergkamp on his 500th league appearance who opened the scoring for Arsenal and Reyes made it 2–0, heading the ball in from Freddie Ljungberg's cross.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3553242.stm |title=Everton 1–4 Arsenal |work=BBC Sport |access-date=4 April 2013 |date=15 August 2004 |archive-date=20 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080720080007/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3553242.stm |url-status=live }} Ljungberg added a third goal in the second half and in spite of the team conceding moments after, Robert Pires scored Arsenal's fourth in the 83rd minute. Shortly before the kick-off at home to Middlesbrough the following weekend, the club was presented a golden replica of the Premier League trophy, to commemorate their unbeaten season. In the match, Henry gave Arsenal the lead, which was cancelled out before half time by Joseph-Désiré Job's goal-bound effort.{{cite news |title=Gunners have all the answers to biggest test |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/23/match.arsenal |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=23 August 2004 |access-date=4 April 2013 |archive-date=20 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020121107/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/23/match.arsenal |url-status=live }} Four minutes after the interval, Franck Queudrue exploited an error from defender Pascal Cygan and in turn passed the ball to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who "finish[ed] with perfect brutality". Queudrue scored to put Middlesbrough 3–1 up in the 53rd minute, but Bergkamp replied with a goal for Arsenal a minute later. The home team completed the comeback with further goals by Reyes, Pires and Henry. Wenger afterwards admitted Arsenal's defending was poor, but said their attacking threat made up for their deficiencies. The 5–3 win meant Arsenal equalled Nottingham Forest's record of 42 league matches undefeated. Three days later, the team beat Blackburn Rovers 3–0 to set a new record.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 3–0 Blackburn |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3577058.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=25 August 2004 |access-date=4 April 2013 |archive-date=2 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210502105326/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/v5.js |url-status=live }} Arsenal at the end of the month travelled to Norwich City, where three first half goals set the team on the way to a 4–1 victory.{{cite news |title=Henry steers Arsenal on another walk in the park |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/29/match.sport8 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |date=29 August 2004 |access-date=4 April 2013 |archive-date=20 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020121407/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/aug/29/match.sport8 |url-status=live }} The win ended Norwich's eight-month undefeated record at Carrow Road.

Due to international fixtures, Arsenal did not play another game for two weeks. On the resumption of club football, they travelled across London to face Fulham. Vieira made his return to the first team in place of Fàbregas.{{cite news |title=Fulham 0–3 Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3599090.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=11 September 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=29 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829193943/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3599090.stm |url-status=live }} Fulham was awarded a penalty in the first half, after Ashley Cole brought down striker Andy Cole in the penalty area. Referee Mark Halsey however changed his mind after protests from the Arsenal players and a consultation with his assistant; the game was restarted with a dropped-ball. Arsenal scored three times in the second half and ended the weekend of 6 September 2004 top of the league table, two points clear of second place Chelsea.{{cite news |title=Change of mind could be costly for Halsey |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/13/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Mark |last=Redding |date=13 September 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810173009/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/13/match.sport |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-09-12 |title=English Premier League table, 12-09-2004 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808043849/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-09-12 |url-status=live }} The league champions dropped their first points of the season at home to Bolton Wanderers.{{cite news |title=Pedersen levels Gunners at last |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/19/match.sport1 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |date=19 September 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172526/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/19/match.sport1 |url-status=live }} At the City of Manchester Stadium on 25 September 2004, a goal by Cole earned Arsenal a 1–0 win against Manchester City. Journalist Russell Thomas, writing for The Guardian, commented on Arsenal's fatigue during the second half and opined that the team needed to keep their focus against sterner opposition.{{cite news |title=Gunners show faint signs of fallibility |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/27/match.sport6 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Russell |last=Thomas |date=27 September 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172532/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/sep/27/match.sport6 |url-status=live }}

Arsenal beat Charlton Athletic in early October to extend their unbeaten run to 48 league matches. Charlton manager Alan Curbishley said of his opponents: "The gulf between Arsenal and the rest of the Premier League means that the rest have got it all to do to try and stop them, and I'm including the big three or four."{{cite news |title=Heavyweight Gunners pack punch |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/04/match.charltonathletic |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=David |last=Lacey |date=4 October 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172929/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/04/match.charltonathletic |url-status=live }} Two goals from Pires and one from Henry ensured a 3–1 win against Aston Villa, who had led the game early on. Attention soon turned to Arsenal's trip to face Manchester United. The champions were looking to go half a century of league games unbeaten, whereas the home team – in transition, attempted to push on for a title challenge.{{cite news |title=Fergie's on the slide – and he knows it |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/24/newsstory.sport16 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=George |last=Graham |date=24 October 2004 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=17 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917051226/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/24/newsstory.sport16 |url-status=live }} The game saw many late aggressive tackles made by United players go unpunished and later in the match, an attempted challenge by Sol Campbell on Wayne Rooney earned Manchester United a controversial penalty, converted by Ruud van Nistelrooy in the 73rd minute. Rooney then scored United's second goal of the match to end Arsenal's unbeaten run on 49 games.{{cite news |title=Man Utd 2–0 Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3727552.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=24 October 2004 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=24 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024205357/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3727552.stm |url-status=live }} Tempers boiled over in the players' tunnel, where pizza was thrown at Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.{{cite news |title=Pizzagate: a slice of strife |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/sep/15/newsstory.sport1 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=15 September 2006 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=10 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710075933/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/sep/15/newsstory.sport1 |url-status=live }} When speaking to the media, a distraught Wenger told reporters that Rooney dived to win the penalty and criticised the refereeing performance of Mike Riley. He was later found guilty of insinuating that Van Nistelrooy was a cheat, and fined £15,000 by the FA.{{cite news |title=Wenger fined over Ruud outburst |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4099659.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=16 December 2004 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210212/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4099659.stm |url-status=live }}

The final match of October was against Southampton at Highbury. Henry who missed a penalty early on, scored to put Arsenal in front in the 67th minute. Southampton replied with two goals from Rory Delap, but Van Persie in stoppage time equalised for the home team with a curling shot.{{cite news |title=Van Persie strikes late to rescue rattled champions |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/31/match.sport5 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |date=30 October 2004 |access-date=6 July 2015 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305035529/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/31/match.sport5 |url-status=live }} The draw meant Arsenal stood in first position and had accumulated 26 points. The team were level on points with Chelsea, with a marginally better goal difference.{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-10-30 |title=English Premier League table, 30-10-2004 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808043952/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-10-30 |url-status=live }}

For the second league game in succession, Arsenal dropped two points. The team drew 1–1 at Crystal Palace on 6 November 2004, which meant Chelsea overtook them in first position.{{cite news |title=Professor knocked down a grade by rocket scientist |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/08/match.sport10 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Russell |last=Thomas |date=8 November 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172750/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/08/match.sport10 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Robben's class lifts Chelsea to the top |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/07/match.sport4 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Stuart |last=Barnes |date=7 November 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810174228/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/07/match.sport4 |url-status=live }} Wenger rued Arsenal's inability to hold onto leads in matches and admitted the fluency had disappeared in their football, possibly because of the manner in which they lost the unbeaten record. A week later Arsenal faced Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane. It was Tottenham who began the match the better of the two teams and took the lead after 36 minutes when Noureddine Naybet scored. Henry equalised for Arsenal moments before half-time, and the champions went in front after Lauren converted a penalty. Vieira scored on the hour mark to make it 3–1, before Jermain Defoe replied for Tottenham instantly with a "wonderful, dipping finish into the top corner".{{cite news |title=Spurs load bullets for Gunners to fire |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/15/newsstory.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=15 November 2004 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=17 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917072101/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/15/newsstory.sport |url-status=live }} Fàbregas created Arsenal's fourth goal, scored by Ljungberg. In the final 16 minutes Tottenham scored twice and Arsenal once; the final score was 5–4, making it the highest scoring North London derby.{{cite news |title=North London derby lit up by stars |url=https://www.fifa.com/classicfootball/clubs/rivalries/newsid=107971/index.html |publisher=FIFA |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=14 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214051537/http://www.fifa.com/classicfootball/clubs/rivalries/newsid=107971/index.html |url-status=dead }} Arsenal's defending was ridiculed by Chelsea manager José Mourinho, who told reporters, "Five-four is a hockey score, not a football score."{{cite news |title=Mourinho takes swipe at Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/4010191.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=14 November 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=28 January 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070128215435/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/4010191.stm |url-status=live }}

{{Quote box |width=270px |bgcolor=#FFFFF0 |salign=left |align=left |quote="I do not think there is too much wrong but when you lose the errors are highlighted. I won't be making any major changes."|source=Arsène Wenger after Arsenal's defeat to Liverpool, 28 November 2004.{{cite news |title=Wenger worried by 'tired' Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4045713.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=29 November 2004 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=11 March 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060311081426/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4045713.stm |url-status=live }}}}

Arsenal only managed a draw against West Bromwich Albion on 20 November 2004; Robert Earnshaw's goal with 11 minutes remaining of normal time cancelled out Pires' opener.{{cite news |title=Arsenal reveal further cracks |url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/arsenal-reveal-further-cracks-9mtcqc6xl7l |newspaper=The Times |location=London |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |date=22 November 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808084051/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/premierleague/article2289794.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} Arsenal lost their final match of November, away to Liverpool at Anfield. Vieira finished off a one-touch move to equalise for Arsenal – who were behind in the first half – but Neil Mellor scored the winning goal of the game, shooting from long range.{{cite news |title=Wenger left bemused by collapse |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/29/match.sport10 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=30 November 2004 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=17 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917073031/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/29/match.sport10 |url-status=live }} Football pundit Alan Hansen in his analysis on Match of the Day criticised the temperament of Arsenal's players and questioned their desire: "When you have success, sometimes it isn't there and you have to dig in with great determination and hard work, and at the moment they are not doing that. When you look at their two big players, Henry and Vieira, [you think they] must do better in future."{{cite news |title=Arsenal's Vieira and Henry criticised by Hansen |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Football%3A+Arsenal%27s+Vieira+and+Henry+criticised+by+Hansen.-a0125496465 |newspaper=Liverpool Daily Post |first=Paul |last=Walker |date=30 November 2004 |access-date=6 July 2015 |archive-date=6 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706181045/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Football%3A+Arsenal%27s+Vieira+and+Henry+criticised+by+Hansen.-a0125496465 |url-status=live }} Arsenal ended the month in second, five points behind leaders Chelsea.{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-11-28 |title=English Premier League table, 28-11-2004 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808044102/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-11-28 |url-status=live }}

Henry scored two late goals in Arsenal's victory over Birmingham City on 4 December 2004. Wenger replaced Lehmann in goal with Almunia, who made his league debut.{{cite news |title=Henry shines right on cue |url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/henry-shines-right-on-cue-t65vbw6lzj9 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |first=Oliver |last=Kay |date=6 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808084047/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/premierleague/article2289883.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} Arsenal then faced league leaders Chelsea at Highbury; with Vieira suspended and Gilberto and Edu injured, Wenger picked Flamini to partner Fabregas in midfield.{{cite web |title=Team news for premiership decider |url=http://www.arseweb.org/www/newsreel/t7i503.html |work=Arseweb |date=11 December 2004 |access-date=7 August 2014 |archive-date=7 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707025341/http://www.arseweb.org/www/newsreel/t7i503.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Arsenal (2) 2 – 2 (1) Chelsea |url=http://www.arseweb.org/www/newsreel/t7i504.html |work=Arseweb |date=14 December 2004 |access-date=7 August 2014 |archive-date=7 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707034701/http://www.arseweb.org/www/newsreel/t7i504.html |url-status=live }} The first chance of the match went to Henry, who scored inside 75 seconds. John Terry levelled the score, but Henry restored Arsenal's lead from a contentious free-kick – Graham Poll allowed the striker to take it quickly without warning the Chelsea players.{{cite news |title=Poll explains free-kick decision |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/chelsea/4091217.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=13 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210205/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320525336&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Fteams%2Fc%2Fchelsea%2F4091217.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20My%20Club%20%7C%20Chelsea%20%7C%20Poll%20explains%20free-kick%20decision&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }} Eiður Guðjohnsen equalised early in the second half for Chelsea, and late on Henry missed a chance to score a hat-trick. There were no further goals and the match ended 2–2, meaning Chelsea remained five points clear of Arsenal.{{cite news |title=Capital thriller a class apart |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/4778592/Capital-thriller-a-class-apart.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=13 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812020643/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/4778592/Capital-thriller-a-class-apart.html |url-status=live }} Wenger said he was disappointed in the manner his team conceded to Chelsea – from two set pieces, but added, "I thought we did really well, and it was important for us to come back to the level we want to be at."{{cite news |title=Wenger admits set-piece problems |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4084777.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=12 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210148/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320508206&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Fteams%2Fa%2Farsenal%2F4084777.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20My%20Club%20%7C%20Arsenal%20%7C%20Wenger%20admits%20set-piece%20problems&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }}

Arsenal won their remaining games in December and conceded no goals. They beat Portsmouth courtesy of a Campbell goal in the second half, and on Boxing Day defeated Fulham by two goals.{{cite news |title=Campbell cracker keeps title hopes burning |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/20/match.sport4 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=20 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172754/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/20/match.sport4 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Henry gives masterclass as Arsenal stay in touch |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2393396/Henry-gives-masterclass-as-Arsenal-stay-in-touch.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Christopher |last=Davies |date=27 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812020702/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2393396/Henry-gives-masterclass-as-Arsenal-stay-in-touch.html |url-status=live }} Vieira scored the winning goal against Newcastle United, a volley that deflected over goalkeeper Shay Given.{{cite news |title=Vieira puts heart into Gunners |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/30/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Michael |last=Walker |date=30 December 2004 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=17 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917100829/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/30/match.sport |url-status=live }} After 20 games, Arsenal accumulated 44 points and lay second in the league table.{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-12-29 |title=English Premier League table, 29-12-2004 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808044105/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2004-12-29 |url-status=live }}

On New Year's Day, Ljungberg scored two goals in Arsenal's 3–1 win against Charlton Athletic.{{cite news |title=Ljungberg keeps Arsenal's title challenge on course |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/jan/02/match.charltonathletic |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |date=2 January 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810173025/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/jan/02/match.charltonathletic |url-status=live }} The team four days later drew at home to Manchester City.{{cite news |title=Arsenal’s title challenge takes a knock |url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/arsenals-title-challenge-takes-a-knock-phr7fd2lqq2 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |first=Russell |last=Kempson |date=5 January 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808105638/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/clubs/arsenal/article2295634.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} Arsenal lost further ground to Chelsea after defeat to Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium.{{cite news |title=Arsenal reveal further cracks |url=https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/arsenal-need-healing-spirit-8057cwl2nrc |newspaper=The Times |location=London |first=Rick |last=Broadbent |date=17 January 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808105635/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/clubs/arsenal/article2295638.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} Wenger conceded that Chelsea were favourites to win the league because of their point advantage, but added: "We will keep going and fight until the last minute of the championship."{{cite news |title=Wenger concedes Chelsea advantage |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4174061.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=15 January 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210148/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320507935&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Fteams%2Fa%2Farsenal%2F4174061.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20My%20Club%20%7C%20Arsenal%20%7C%20Wenger%20concedes%20Chelsea%20advantage&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }} Arsenal ended January with a 1–0 home win against Newcastle United. Wenger made four changes from the Bolton defeat, with Bergkamp the match scorer coming in place of Van Persie.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 1–0 Newcastle |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4177043.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=23 January 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=9 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609163248/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4177043.stm |url-status=live }}

The first night of February saw Arsenal host Manchester United at Highbury. In the tunnel before the match Roy Keane was seen confronting Vieira; the United captain accused him of intimidating his teammate Gary Neville.{{cite news |title=Highbury tunnel players in clear |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4228397.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=2 February 2005 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=13 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713125559/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4228397.stm |url-status=live }} Vieira scored after eight minutes, but Giggs equalised for Manchester United 10 minutes later. Bergkamp restored Arsenal's advantage nine minutes before half time, but two goals by Cristiano Ronaldo and one by John O'Shea in the second half gave United a 4–2 win.{{cite news |title=United storm the battle of Highbury |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/02/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=2 February 2005 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=10 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710110749/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/02/match.sport |url-status=live }} It was Arsenal's fourth league defeat of the season and moved them down to third spot, overtaken by their opponents. Wenger ruled his team out of the title race and refused to blame Almunia for his error in Ronaldo's first goal.{{cite news |title=Wenger admits title dream is over |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4224233.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=1 February 2005 |access-date=9 July 2015 |archive-date=28 May 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060528043447/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4224233.stm |url-status=live }} The goalkeeper was dropped in Arsenal's next game, away to Aston Villa. Three first half goals by Ljungberg, Henry and Cole gave Arsenal a comfortable win.{{cite news |title=Edu's edge has Arsenal firing again |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2354884/Edus-edge-has-Arsenal-firing-again.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Colin |last=Malam |date=6 February 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812020653/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2354884/Edus-edge-has-Arsenal-firing-again.html |url-status=live }}

For the match against Crystal Palace on 14 February 2005, Wenger named an Arsenal squad that did not feature a single British player – a first in the club's history. The team did not get off to the best of starts with Lehmann miskicking a back pass and Vieira losing possession routinely, but grew as the game went on and scored three goals in seven minutes. On his 200th league appearance, Henry scored in either half, with the result 5–1 to Arsenal. The result was somewhat overshadowed by the foreign makeup of the team; former player Paul Merson called it a "joke"{{cite news |title=Merson hits out at foreign focus |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4269467.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=16 February 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808070515/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4269467.stm |url-status=live }} and PFA chairman Gordon Taylor noted it was a "worrying pattern for English football".{{cite news |title=Critics fire salvo at all-foreign Arsenal |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/17/sport.comment |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Toby |last=Manhire |date=17 February 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=17 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917185543/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/17/sport.comment |url-status=live }} When asked about his team selections, Wenger said: "I don't look at the passport of people, I look at their quality and their attitude."{{cite news |title=Wenger backs non-English line-up |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4266443.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=15 February 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=26 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120126050051/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4266443.stm |url-status=live }}

Arsenal only earned a point at Southampton, where Van Persie was sent off for a late challenge on Graeme Le Saux.{{cite news |title=Van Persie's turn to take an early bath as Arsenal's season crumbles |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/27/match.sport |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |date=27 February 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810173000/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/27/match.sport |url-status=live }} The team remained in third at the end of February, four points behind Manchester United and 10 behind leaders Chelsea, who played a game less than both challengers.{{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2005-02-28 |title=English Premier League table, 28-02-2005 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=2 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808043956/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005/table/2005-02-28 |url-status=live }}

Arsenal's form improved as the season drew to a close. At home to Portsmouth on 5 March 2005, the team earned three points courtesy of Henry's hat-trick.{{cite news |title=Henry treble fails to ease fears |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2356238/Henry-treble-fails-to-ease-fears.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Colin |last=Malam |date=7 March 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812093255/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2356238/Henry-treble-fails-to-ease-fears.html |url-status=live }} Van Persie scored the only goal in Arsenal's match against Blackburn Rovers and the team moved back to second position with a home win against Norwich City – Henry scored another hat-trick.{{cite news |title=Wenger will save money with his young guns |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/mar/21/match.sport1 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Louise |last=Taylor |date=21 March 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810174122/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/mar/21/match.sport1 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Three and easy for Henry as Norwich look doomed |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/03/match.sport |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first=Ian |last=Ridley |date=29 August 2004 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=2 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200902083333/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/03/match.sport |url-status=live }} A week later Pires' goal was enough for Arsenal to beat Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium and win their fourth consecutive match.{{cite news |title=Arsenal lead in race for second place |url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/premierleague/article2289333.ece |newspaper=The Times |location=London |first=Chris |last=Lightbown |date=11 April 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=8 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808155850/http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/sport/football/premierleague/article2289333.ece |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} The team then played out a goalless draw against Chelsea, who were on course to become champions; Wenger congratulated his opponents on their season and felt Arsenal needed to score first so that they could "force them to come out from the back."{{cite news |title=Wenger says Chelsea deserve title |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/4459301.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=21 April 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210157/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320514099&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Fteams%2Fa%2Farsenal%2F4459301.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20My%20Club%20%7C%20Arsenal%20%7C%20Wenger%20says%20Chelsea%20deserve%20title&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }}

Arsenal defeated Tottenham 1–0 on 25 April 2005, which meant Chelsea needed to wait on Saturday in order to mathematically win the title.{{cite news |title=Reyes keeps the race going |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/26/match.sport1 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |date=26 April 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810174119/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/26/match.sport1 |url-status=live }} Second position was the best Arsenal could aim for by the time they faced West Bromwich Albion on 2 May 2005. Goals from Van Persie and Edu earned a 2–0 win for the team and Arsenal beat Champions League finalists Liverpool at Highbury to all-but secure second spot.{{cite news |title=Arsenal have Robson reeling |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359072/Arsenal-have-Robson-reeling.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=3 May 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812093211/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359072/Arsenal-have-Robson-reeling.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Arsenal give Liverpool timely lesson |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359330/Arsenal-give-Liverpool-timely-lesson.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=9 May 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812093410/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359330/Arsenal-give-Liverpool-timely-lesson.html |url-status=live }} Arsenal recorded the biggest win of the league season, against Everton at Highbury. An inspired performance by Bergkamp helped the team win 7–0; he created the opening two goals and scored in the second half.{{cite news |title=Rampant Gunners in seventh heaven |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/12/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |date=12 May 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=18 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140918205926/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/12/match.sport |url-status=live }} Arsenal lost their final game of the campaign, away to Birmingham City. It was a lacklustre performance by the visitors, who equalised through Bergkamp after going a goal behind, but conceded in the 90th minute.{{cite news |title=Henry still a doubt for Cup final |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359688/Henry-still-a-doubt-for-Cup-final.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Martin |last=Smith |date=16 May 2005 |access-date=6 August 2014 |archive-date=12 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812093323/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2359688/Henry-still-a-doubt-for-Cup-final.html |url-status=live }}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 1

|date = 15 August 2004

|time = 14:00 BST

|team1 = Everton

|score = 1–4

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3553242.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Carsley {{yel|37}}, {{goal|64}}
Osman {{yel|43}}

|goals2 = Bergkamp {{goal|23}}
Reyes {{goal|39}}
Cole {{yel|53}}
Ljungberg {{goal|54}}
Pires {{goal|83}}

|location = Liverpool

|stadium = Goodison Park

|attendance = 35,521

|referee = Mike Riley

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 2

|date = 22 August 2004

|time = 16:05 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 5–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3564572.stm Report]

|team2 = Middlesbrough

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|25||90}}
Bergkamp {{goal|54}}
Pires {{goal|65}}
Reyes {{goal|65}}

|goals2 = Job {{goal|43}}
Hasselbaink {{goal|50}}
Queudrue {{goal|53}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,415

|referee = S Dunn

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 3

|date = 25 August 2004

|time = 19:45 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3577058.stm Report]

|team2 = Blackburn Rovers

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|50}}
Fàbregas {{goal|58}}
Reyes {{goal|79}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,496

|referee = Neale Barry

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 4

|date = 28 August 2004

|time = 17:15 BST

|team1 = Norwich City

|score = 1–4

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3586108.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Huckerby {{goal|50|pen.}}

|goals2 = Reyes {{goal|22}}
Henry {{goal|36}}
Pires {{goal|40}}
Bergkamp {{goal|90+3}}

|location = Norwich

|stadium = Carrow Road

|attendance = 23,944

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 5

|date = 11 September 2004

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Fulham

|score = 0–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3599090.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|62}}
Knight {{goal|65|o.g.}}
Reyes {{goal|71}}

|location = London

|stadium = Craven Cottage

|attendance = 21,681

|referee = Mark Halsey

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 6

|date = 18 September 2004

|time = 12:45 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3647074.stm Report]

|team2 = Bolton Wanderers

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|31}}
Pires {{goal|66}}

|goals2 = Jaïdi {{goal|63}}
Pedersen {{goal|85}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,010

|referee = Phil Dowd

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 7

|date = 25 September 2004

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Manchester City

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3661812.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Cole {{goal|14}}

|location = Manchester

|stadium = City of Manchester Stadium

|attendance = 47,015

|referee = Neale Barry

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 8

|date = 2 October 2004

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 4–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3689182.stm Report]

|team2 = Charlton Athletic

|goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|33}}
Henry {{goal|48||69}}
Reyes {{goal|70}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,103

|referee = Mike Dean

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 9

|date = 16 October 2004

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3724032.stm Report]

|team2 = Aston Villa

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|19|pen.|72}}
Henry {{goal|45+1}}

|goals2 = Hendrie {{goal|3}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,137

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 10

|date = 24 October 2004

|time = 16:05 BST

|team1 = Manchester United

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3727552.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = G. Neville {{yel|36}}
P. Neville {{yel|38}}
Van Nistelrooy {{goal|73|pen.}}
Rooney {{goal|90+3}}

|goals2 = Cole {{yel|35}}
Vieira {{yel|75}}
Edu {{yel|79}}

|location = Manchester

|stadium = Old Trafford

|attendance = 67,862

|referee = Mike Riley

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 11

|date = 30 October 2004

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/3947349.stm Report]

|team2 = Southampton

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|67}}
Van Persie {{goal|90+2}}

|goals2 = Delap {{goal|80||85}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,141

|referee = Matt Messias

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 12

|date = 6 November 2004

|time = 17:15 GMT

|team1 = Crystal Palace

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3967923.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Riihilahti {{goal|65}}

|goals2 = Henry {{goal|63}}

|location = London

|stadium = Selhurst Park

|attendance = 26,193

|referee = Mike Dean

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 13

|date = 13 November 2004

|time = 12:00 GMT

|team1 = Tottenham Hotspur

|score = 4–5

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3988131.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Naybet {{goal|37}}
Defoe {{goal|61}}
King {{goal|74}}
Kanouté {{goal|88}}

|goals2 = Henry {{goal|45+1}}
Lauren {{goal|55|pen.}}
Vieira {{goal|60}}
Ljungberg {{goal|69}}
Pires {{goal|81}}

|location = London

|stadium = White Hart Lane

|attendance = 36,095

|referee = Steve Bennett

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 14

|date = 20 November 2004

|time = 15:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4009021.stm Report]

|team2 = West Bromwich Albion

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|54}}

|goals2 = Earnshaw {{goal|79}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,109

|referee = Howard Webb

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 15

|date = 28 November 2004

|time = 16:05 GMT

|team1 = Liverpool

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4028103.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Alonso {{goal|41}}
Mellor {{goal|90+2}}

|goals2 = Vieira {{goal|56}}

|location = Liverpool

|stadium = Anfield

|attendance = 43,730

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 16

|date = 4 December 2004

|time = 15:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4047547.stm Report]

|team2 = Birmingham City

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|33}}
Henry {{goal|80||86}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,064

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 17

|date = 12 December 2004

|time = 16:05 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4072055.stm Report]

|team2 = Chelsea

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|2||29}}

|goals2 = Terry {{goal|17}}
Guðjohnsen {{goal|46}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,153

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 18

|date = 19 December 2004

|time = 16:05 GMT

|team1 = Portsmouth

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4088027.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Campbell {{goal|75}}

|location = Portsmouth

|stadium = Fratton Park

|attendance = 20,170

|referee = Howard Webb

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 19

|date = 26 December 2004

|time = 13:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4107309.stm Report]

|team2 = Fulham

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|12}}
Pires {{goal|71}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance =

|referee = Barry Knight

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 20

|date = 29 December 2004

|time = 20:00 GMT

|team1 = Newcastle United

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4109161.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Vieira {{goal|45+1}}

|location = Newcastle upon Tyne

|stadium = St James' Park

|attendance = 52,320

|referee = Steve Bennett

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 21

|date = 1 January 2005

|time = 15:00 GMT

|team1 = Charlton Athletic

|score = 1–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4114647.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = El Karkouri {{goal|45}}

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|35||48}}
Van Persie {{goal|67}}

|location = London

|stadium = The Valley

|attendance =

|referee = Mark Halsey

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 22

|date = 4 January 2005

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4130159.stm Report]

|team2 = Manchester City

|goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|75}}

|goals2 = Wright-Phillips {{goal|31}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,086

|referee = Rob Styles

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 23

|date = 15 January 2005

|time = 17:15 GMT

|team1 = Bolton Wanderers

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4150627.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Giannakopoulos {{goal|41}}

|goals2 =

|location = Bolton

|stadium = Reebok Stadium

|attendance = 27,514

|referee = Mark Clattenburg

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 24

|date = 23 January 2005

|time = 16:05 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4177043.stm Report]

|team2 = Newcastle United

|goals1 = Bergkamp {{goal|19}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,137

|referee = Steve Dunn

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 25

|date = 1 February 2005

|time = 20:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–4

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4221105.stm Report]

|team2 = Manchester United

|goals1 = Vieira {{goal|8}}
Bergkamp {{goal|36}}

|goals2 = Giggs {{goal|18}}
Ronaldo {{goal|54||58}}
Silvestre {{sentoff|0|69}}
O'Shea {{goal|89}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,164

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 26

|date = 5 February 2005

|time = 17:15 GMT

|team1 = Aston Villa

|score = 1–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4218151.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Ángel {{goal|74}}

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|10}}
Henry {{goal|14}}
Cole {{goal|28}}

|location = Birmingham

|stadium = Villa Park

|attendance = 42,593

|referee = Steve Bennett

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 27

|date = 14 February 2005

|time = 20:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 5–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4239095.stm Report]

|team2 = Crystal Palace

|goals1 = Bergkamp {{goal|32}}
Reyes {{goal|35}}
Henry {{goal|39||77}}
Vieira {{goal|54}}

|goals2 = A. Johnson {{goal|63|pen.}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,056

|referee = Rob Styles

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 28

|date = 26 February 2005

|time = 12:45 GMT

|team1 = Southampton

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4279667.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Prutton {{sent off|2|35|45}}
Crouch {{goal|67}}

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|45+4}}
Van Persie {{sent off|0|52}}

|location = Southampton

|stadium = St Mary's Stadium

|attendance = 31,815

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 29

|date = 5 March 2005

|time = 15:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4300411.stm Report]

|team2 = Portsmouth

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|39||53||85}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,079

|referee = Chris Foy

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 30

|date = 19 March 2005

|time = 12:45 GMT

|team1 = Blackburn Rovers

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4343201.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Van Persie {{goal|43}}

|location = Blackburn

|stadium = Ewood Park

|attendance = 22,992

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 31

|date = 2 April 2005

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 4–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4384111.stm Report]

|team2 = Norwich City

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|19||22||66}}
Ljungberg {{goal|50}}

|goals2 = Huckerby {{goal|30}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,066

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 32

|date = 9 April 2005

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Middlesbrough

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4403615.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Pires {{goal|73}}

|location = Middlesbrough

|stadium = Riverside Stadium

|attendance = 33,874

|referee = Phil Dowd

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 33

|date = 20 April 2005

|time = 20:00 BST

|team1 = Chelsea

|score = 0–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4451319.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Stamford Bridge

|attendance = 41,621

|referee = Steve Bennett

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 34

|date = 25 April 2005

|time = 20:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4451363.stm Report]

|team2 = Tottenham Hotspur

|goals1 = Reyes {{goal|22}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,147

|referee = Mike Riley

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 35

|date = 2 May 2005

|time = 20:00 BST

|team1 = West Bromwich Albion

|score = 0–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4476079.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Van Persie {{goal|66}}
Edu {{goal|90+2}}

|location = West Bromwich

|stadium = The Hawthorns

|attendance = 27,351

|referee = Neale Barry

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 36

|date = 8 May 2005

|time = 16:05 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4501105.stm Report]

|team2 = Liverpool

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|25}}
Reyes {{goal|29}}
Fàbregas {{goal|90+4}}

|goals2 = Gerrard {{goal|51}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,119

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 37

|date = 11 May 2005

|time = 20:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 7–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4528611.stm Report]

|team2 = Everton

|goals1 = Van Persie {{goal|8}}
Pires {{goal|12||50}}
Vieira {{goal|37}}
Edu {{goal|70|pen.}}
Bergkamp {{goal|77}}
Flamini {{goal|85}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,073

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 38

|date = 15 May 2005

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Birmingham City

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4525083.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Pandiani {{goal|80}}
Heskey {{goal|90}}

|goals2 = Bergkamp {{goal|88}}

|location = Birmingham

|stadium = St. Andrew's

|attendance = 29,302

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = L

}}

{{:2004–05 FA Premier League|showteam=ARS}}

{{Fb_rs |hw=13 |hd=5 |hl=1 |hgf=54 |hga=19 |aw=12 |ad=3 |al=4 |agf=33 |aga=17}}

{{Fb rs footer|u= |s={{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005 |title=Premier League – 2004–05 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=18 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019141648/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2004-2005 |archive-date=19 October 2013 |url-status=dead }} |date=November 2011}}

{{#invoke:sports rbr table|table|legendpos=b

|header=Round

|label1= Result

| res1=W/W/W/W/W/D/W/W/W/L/D/D/W/D/L/W/D/W/W/W/W/D/L/W/L/W/W/D/W/W/W/W/D/W/W/W/W/L

|label2= Position

| res2=1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1/2/2/2/2/2/3/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/3/3/3/3/3/3/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2

|color_W=green2|text_W=Win

|color_D=yellow2|text_D=Draw

|color_L=red2|text_L=Loss

|color_1=1st|color_2=2nd|color_3=3rd|color_18-=red1

|updated=

|source={{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2004-2005 |title=Arsenal – 2004–05 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=18 August 2013 |archive-date=12 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130812072546/http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2004-2005 |url-status=live }} |notes=

|date=November 2011

}}

{{main article|2004–05 FA Cup}}

Arsenal entered the competition in the third round, by virtue of their Premier League status. Their opening match was a home tie against Stoke City. The visitors took the lead just before the break, but goals from Reyes and Van Persie in the second half meant Arsenal won 2–1.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 2–1 Stoke |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4139301.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=9 January 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210150/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320510234&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Ffa_cup%2F4139301.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20FA%20Cup%20%7C%20Arsenal%202-1%20Stoke&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }} They then faced Wolverhampton Wanderers at home in the next round; a goal apiece from Vieira and Ljungberg secured a comfortable 2–0 victory.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 2–0 Wolves |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4197623.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=29 January 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210149/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320509546&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Ffa_cup%2F4197623.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20FA%20Cup%20%7C%20Arsenal%202-0%20Wolves&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }}

Arsenal's opponent in the fifth round was Sheffield United. After 35 minutes Bergkamp was sent off for his apparent push on Cullip. With eleven minutes of normal time remaining, Robert Pires scored for Arsenal, but the team conceded a late penalty which Andy Gray converted.{{cite news |title=Arsenal struggle to draw breath |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/21/match.arsenal |first=Paul |last=Wilson |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=21 February 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=28 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728224604/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/feb/21/match.arsenal |url-status=live }} The equaliser for Sheffield United meant the match was replayed at Bramall Lane on 1 March 2005. Both teams played out a goalless draw after full-time and throughout extra-time, so the tie was decided by a penalty shootout. Almunia saved two penalties, which ensured progress into the quarter-finals.{{cite news |title=Sheff Utd 0–0 Arsenal (aet) |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4300405.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=1 March 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=30 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330215003/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4300405.stm |url-status=live }}

Bolton Wanderers hosted Arsenal at the Reebok Stadium in the sixth round of the competition. Ljungberg scored the only goal of the tie after just three minutes; he had an opportunity to extend Arsenal's lead in stoppage time, but hit the ball over from six yards.{{cite news |title=Bolton 0–1 Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/4327789.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=12 March 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210152/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/4327789.stm |url-status=live }} Arsenal faced Blackburn Rovers in the semi-final which was played at the Millennium Stadium. Two goals from Van Persie and one from Pires gave Arsenal a 3–0 win, in a match marred by Blackburn's aggressive tactics.{{cite news |title=Van Persie doubles up to deliver knockout |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/17/match.sport5 |first=Paul |last=Wilson |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=17 April 2005 |access-date=14 July 2014 |archive-date=28 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140728225526/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/apr/17/match.sport5 |url-status=live }}

This set up a showdown with Manchester United in the final on 21 May 2005. United were on top for long periods of the game but Arsenal resisted their pressure and the match ended 0–0 after 120 minutes, albeit Arsenal were a man lighter after Reyes' dismissal with a minute remaining for two bookable offences.{{cite news |title=Vieira holds his nerve to claim historic penalty prize for Arsenal |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/22/match.sport1 |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=22 May 2005 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=13 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190513002154/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2005/may/22/match.sport1 |url-status=live }} The match went to penalties with all the penalty takers converting barring Paul Scholes, whose effort was denied by Lehmann. Vieira converted the final and winning spot-kick to seal a tenth FA Cup crown for Arsenal.

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Third round

|date = 9 January 2005

|time = 14:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/fa-cup-arsenal-2-stoke-1-report Report]

|team2 = Stoke City

|goals1 =

• Reyes {{goal|50}}
• Van Persie {{goal|70}}

|goals2 = Thomas {{goal|44}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 36,579

|referee = Neale Barry (Lincolnshire)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fourth round

|date = 29 January 2005

|time = 15:00 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/fa-cup-arsenal-2-wolves-0-report Report]

|team2 = Wolverhampton Wanderers

|goals1 =

• Vieira {{goal|53|pen.}}
• Ljungberg {{goal|82}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,153

|referee = Mike Riley (Leeds)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fifth round

|date = 19 February 2005

|time = 12:30 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-1-sheffield-utd-1-report Report]

|team2 = Sheffield United

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|78}}

|goals2 = Gray {{goal|90|pen.}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 36,891

|referee = Neale Barry (Lincolnshire)

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fifth round replay

|date = 1 March 2005

|time = 20:05 GMT

|team1 = Sheffield United

|score = 0–0

|aet = yes

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/sheff-utd-0-0-arsenal-2-4-on-pens- Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Sheffield

|stadium = Bramall Lane

|attendance = 27,595

|referee = Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)

|penalties1 =

• Gray {{pengoal}}
• Jagielka {{pengoal}}
• Quinn {{penmiss}}
• Harley {{penmiss}}

|penaltyscore= 2–4

|penalties2 =

• {{pengoal}} Lauren
• {{pengoal}} Vieira
• {{pengoal}} Ljungberg
• {{pengoal}} Cole

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Sixth round

|date = 12 March 2005

|time = 12:15 GMT

|team1 = Bolton Wanderers

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/fa-cup-6th-round-bolton-0-arsenal-1 Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|3}}

|location = Bolton

|stadium = Reebok Stadium

|attendance = 23,523

|referee = Steve Bennett (Kent)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Semi-finals

|date = 16 April 2005

|time = 12:15 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-3-blackburn-0-match-report Report]

|team2 = Blackburn Rovers

|goals1 =

• Pires {{goal|42}}
• Van Persie {{goal|86||90}}

|goals2 =

|location = Cardiff

|stadium = Millennium Stadium

|attendance = 52,077

|referee = Steve Dunn (Gloucestershire)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Final

|date = 21 May 2005

|time = 15:00 BST

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 0–0

|aet = yes

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/4558271.stm Report]

|team2 = Manchester United

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Cardiff

|stadium = Millennium Stadium

|attendance = 71,876

|referee = Rob Styles (Hampshire)

|penalties1 =

• Lauren {{pengoal}}
• Ljungberg {{pengoal}}
• Van Persie {{pengoal}}
• Cole {{pengoal}}
• Vieira {{pengoal}}

|penaltyscore = 5–4

|penalties2 =

• {{pengoal}} Van Nistelrooy
• {{penmiss}} Scholes
• {{pengoal}} Ronaldo
• {{pengoal}} Rooney
• {{pengoal}} Keane

|result = D

}}

{{main article|2004–05 Football League Cup}}

The Football League Cup is a cup competition open to clubs in the Premier League and Football League. Like the FA Cup it is played on a knockout basis, with the exception of the second round and semi-finals, which are contested over a two-legged tie. Together with the other clubs playing in European competitions, Arsenal entered the Football League Cup in the third round. The team were drawn to face Manchester City, on the week of 25 October 2004.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/3681678.stm |title=Carling Cup draw |work=BBC Sport |date=22 September 2004 |access-date=7 August 2014 |archive-date=7 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071007162501/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/3681678.stm |url-status=live }} Wenger fielded a relatively young team for the tie, which took the lead in the second half when Van Persie scored. Danny Karbassiyoon extended the visitor's lead in the 90th minute, just before Manchester City striker Robbie Fowler scored from a free-kick.{{cite news |title=Van Persie offers hope for the future |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/28/match.manchestercity |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Ian |last=Whittell |date=28 October 2004 |access-date=19 August 2014 |archive-date=21 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821011555/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/oct/28/match.manchestercity |url-status=live }}

In the fourth round, Arsenal faced Everton at Highbury. The team went behind after eight minutes of play, but Quincy Owusu-Abeyie levelled the scoreline and in the second half Arturo Lupoli scored twice.{{cite news |title=Wenger whelps feast on Toffees |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/10/match.arsenal |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Chris |last=Roberts |date=10 November 2004 |access-date=19 August 2014 |archive-date=20 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820232001/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/10/match.arsenal |url-status=live }} Wenger was pleased with how his team responded to the setback and added: "They played intelligently, technically well and with the spirit we like to play the game."{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3995081.stm |title=Arsenal's Edu faces six weeks out |work=BBC Sport |date=9 November 2004 |access-date=19 August 2014}} Arsenal bowed out of the competition away to Manchester United; the only goal of the match came inside 19 seconds when David Bellion profited from an error by goalkeeper Almunia.{{cite news |title=Bellion wins the battle of the babes |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/02/match.manchesterunited |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |date=2 December 2004 |access-date=19 August 2014 |archive-date=21 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821015906/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/dec/02/match.manchesterunited |url-status=live }}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Third round

|date = 27 October 2004

|time = 19:45 BST

|team1 = Manchester City

|score = 1–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/3947065.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Fowler {{goal|90+4}}

|goals2 =

• Van Persie {{goal|78}}
• Karbassiyoon {{goal|90+1}}

|location = Manchester

|stadium = City of Manchester Stadium

|attendance = 21,708

|referee = Peter Walton (Northamptonshire)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fourth round

|date = 9 November 2004

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/3988357.stm Report]

|team2 = Everton

|goals1 =

• Quincy {{goal|25}}
• Lupoli {{goal|52||85}}

|goals2 = Gravesen {{goal|8}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 27,791

|referee = Alan Wiley (Staffordshire)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Quarter-finals

|date = 1 December 2004

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Manchester United

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/4047617.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Bellion {{goal|1}}

|goals2 =

|location = Manchester

|stadium = Old Trafford

|attendance = 67,103

|referee = Mark Halsey (Lancashire)

|result = L

}}

{{main article|2004–05 UEFA Champions League}}

{{main article|2004–05 UEFA Champions League group stage#Group E}}

Arsenal were drawn in Group E, along with Dutch champions PSV, Greek club Panathinaikos and Norwegian side Rosenborg.{{cite news |title=Chelsea face Porto |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3600392.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=26 August 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=20 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080720074919/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3600392.stm |url-status=live }} An Alex own goal was enough for Arsenal to claim three points against PSV on the first matchday. The team drew away to Rosenborg and earned a point at Panathinaikos, despite twice having taken the lead at the Leoforos Alexandras Stadium.{{cite news |title=Arsenal let hosts off the hook |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2387586/Arsenal-let-hosts-off-the-hook.html |first=Christopher |last=Davies |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=30 September 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=14 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714011544/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2387586/Arsenal-let-hosts-off-the-hook.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Panathinaikos 2–2 Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/3753524.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=20 October 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015}} In the reverse fixture, Cygan scored an own goal to cancel out Henry's first-half opener; the result left Arsenal in second position.{{cite news |title=Cygan puts Arsenal on the rack |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/03/match.panathinaikos |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=3 November 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=8 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708073319/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2004/nov/03/match.panathinaikos |url-status=live }} Their next match was against PSV at the Philips Stadion, where after eight minutes the home side took the lead. Henry equalised for Arsenal, having created the chance following a one-two with Ljungberg. In the second half Lauren and Vieira were both sent off, for two bookable offences.{{cite news |title=Arsenal hang on for point with nine men |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2391898/Arsenal-hang-on-for-point-with-nine-men.html |first=Henry |last=Winter |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=25 November 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=14 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714023247/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2391898/Arsenal-hang-on-for-point-with-nine-men.html |url-status=live }} Wenger accepted referee Herbert Fandel's decision, but added his surprise that Mark van Bommel was not cautioned: "If you look at the number of fouls he made without being punished it is very surprising because he made some deliberate fouls. Some people might criticise Patrick when we were down to 10 men but he felt he had to fight harder to win the ball."{{cite news |title=In trouble |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Football%3A+IN+TROUBLE%3B+PSV+Eindhoven1+Arsenal+1+Vieira+and+Lauren+off...-a0125288757 |first1=Oliver |last1=Holt |first2=Martin |last2=Lipton |newspaper=The Mirror |location=London |date=25 November 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=8 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708041230/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Football%3A+IN+TROUBLE%3B+PSV+Eindhoven1+Arsenal+1+Vieira+and+Lauren+off...-a0125288757 |url-status=live }}

The draw against PSV meant Arsenal had to beat against Rosenborg to qualify for the last 16. A 5–1 win at home, with five different goalscorers on the scoresheet, put Arsenal top of the group given PSV lost to Panathinaikos.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 5–1 Rosenborg |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4068117.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=7 December 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210440/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320678433&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Feurope%2F4068117.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20Europe%20%7C%20Arsenal%205-1%20Rosenborg&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }}

{{:2004–05 UEFA Champions League group stage|transcludesection=Group E|show_matches=n|showteam=ARS}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 1

|date = 14 September 2004

|time = 19:45 BST

|team1 = Arsenal {{Flagicon|ENG}}

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/usa/sh/news/news-archive/arsenal-1-0-psv-match-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|NED}} PSV

|goals1 = Alex {{goal|41|o.g.}}

|goals2 =

|location = London, England

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 34,068

|referee = Domenico Messina (Italy)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 2

|date = 29 September 2004

|time = 20:45 CET

|team1 = Rosenborg {{Flagicon|NOR}}

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/rosenborg-1-1-arsenal-match-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1 = Strand {{goal|52}}

|goals2 = Ljungberg {{goal|6}}

|location = Trondheim, Norway

|stadium = Lerkendal Stadion

|attendance = 21,100

|referee = Florian Meyer (Germany)

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 3

|date = 20 October 2004

|time = 20:45 CET

|team1 = Panathinaikos {{Flagicon|GRE}}

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/panathinaikos-2-2-arsenal-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1 =

• González {{goal|65}}
• Olisadebe {{goal|82}}

|goals2 =

• Ljungberg {{goal|18}}
• Henry {{goal|74}}

|location = Athens, Greece

|stadium = Leoforos Alexandras Stadium

|attendance = 12,346

|referee = Valentin Ivanov (Russia)

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 4

|date = 2 November 2004

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal {{Flagicon|ENG}}

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-1-1-panathinaikos-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|GRE}} Panathinaikos

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|16|pen.}}

|goals2 = Cygan {{goal|75|o.g.}}

|location = London, England

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 35,137

|referee = Luis Medina Cantalejo (Spain)

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 5

|date = 24 November 2004

|time = 20:45 CET

|team1 = PSV {{Flagicon|NED}}

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/psv-1-1-arsenal-match-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1 = Ooijer {{goal|8}}

|goals2 =

• Henry {{goal|31}}
• Lauren {{sent off|0|65}}
• Vieira {{sent off|0|78}}

|location = Eindhoven, Netherlands

|stadium = Philips Stadion

|attendance = 35,200

|referee = Herbert Fandel (Germany)

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 6

|date = 7 December 2004

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal {{Flagicon|ENG}}

|score = 5–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-5-1-rosenborg-match-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|NOR}} Rosenborg

|goals1 =

• Reyes {{goal|3}}
• Henry {{goal|24}}
• Fàbregas {{goal|29}}
• Pires {{goal|41|pen.}}
• van Persie {{goal|84}}

|goals2 = Hoftun {{goal|38}}

|location = London, England

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 35,421

|referee = Stefano Farina (Italy)

|result = W

}}

{{main article|2004–05 UEFA Champions League knockout stage}}

Arsenal were drawn against Bayern Munich in the knockout stages.{{cite news |title=Chelsea handed tie with Barcelona |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4081635.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=17 December 2004 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818210446/https://secure-uk.imrworldwide.com/cgi-bin/m?ci=bbc&cg=0&rd=1629320686046&si=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.bbc.co.uk%2Fsport2%2Fhi%2Ffootball%2Feurope%2F4081635.stm&rp=&sr=1600x1000&cd=24&lg=en-US&je=n&ck=y&tz=0&ct=&hp=&tl=BBC%20SPORT%20%7C%20Football%20%7C%20Europe%20%7C%20Chelsea%20handed%20tie%20with%20Barcelona&ts=v5.js |url-status=live }} In the first leg a mistake from Touré presented Claudio Pizarro to score inside four minutes. The striker then scored his second of the match in the 58th minute, getting past his marker Touré, and Hasan Salihamidžić added a third for Bayern seven minutes later. Touré scored an away goal late on for Arsenal, which gave them a slender chance of progressing into the quarter-finals.{{cite news |title=Bayern Munich 3–1 Arsenal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4281683.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=22 February 2005 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=5 March 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070305014449/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4281683.stm |url-status=live }} Arsenal beat Bayern in the second leg, but a solitary goal – scored by Henry in the 66th minute, meant the club was eliminated.{{cite news |title=Arsenal 1–0 Bayern Munich |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4321517.stm |work=BBC Sport |date=9 March 2005 |access-date=7 July 2015 |archive-date=4 January 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070104111502/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/4321517.stm |url-status=live }}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = First leg

|date = 22 February 2005

|time = 20:45 CET

|team1 = Bayern Munich {{Flagicon|GER}}

|score = 3–1

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/bayern-munich-3-arsenal-1-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1 =

• Pizarro {{goal|4||58}}
• Salihamidžić {{goal|65}}

|goals2 = Touré {{goal|88}}

|location = Munich, Germany

|stadium = Olympiastadion

|attendance = 36,891

|referee = Kim Milton Nielsen (Denmark)

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Second leg

|date = 9 March 2005

|time = 19:45 GMT

|team1 = Arsenal {{Flagicon|ENG}}

|score = 1–0

|aggregatescore= 2–3

|report = [http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-1-0-bayern-munich-report Report]

|team2 = {{flagicon|GER}} Bayern Munich

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|66}}

|goals2 =

|location = London, England

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 35,450

|referee = Massimo De Santis (Italy)

|result = W

}}

Arsenal used a total of 32 players during the 2004–05 season and there were 18 different goalscorers. There were also three squad members who did not make a first-team appearance in the campaign. The team played in a 4–4–2 formation throughout the season, but Wenger deployed a 4–5–1 formation for the cup final.{{cite news |title=Supreme Arsenal set gold standard |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/soccer/judge-wenger-at-seasons-end-not-now/article612131/ |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |first=Paul |last=Attfield |date=1 March 2011 |access-date=2 December 2013 |archive-date=31 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231022622/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/soccer/judge-wenger-at-seasons-end-not-now/article612131/ |url-status=live }} Touré featured in 49 matches – the most of any Arsenal player in the campaign.{{cite web |title=Arsenal appearances, 2004/2005 |url=http://arseweb.com/history/stats/05.html#app |work=Arseweb |date=24 May 2005 |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-date=2 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200902083223/http://arseweb.com/history/stats/05.html#app |url-status=live }}

The team scored a total of 117 goals in all competitions.{{cite web |title=Arsenal goal statistics, 2004/2005 |url=http://arseweb.com/history/stats/goals05.html |work=Arseweb |date=17 May 2005 |access-date=12 October 2015 |archive-date=15 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015080229/http://arseweb.com/history/stats/goals05.html |url-status=live }} The highest scorer was Henry, with 30 goals, followed by Pires who scored 17 goals. Five Arsenal players were sent off during the season: Vieira, Reyes, Bergkamp, Van Persie and Lauren.{{cite web |title=Arsenal disciplinary record, 2004/2005 |url=http://arseweb.com/history/stats/discip05.html |work=Arseweb |date=24 May 2005 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810023637/http://arseweb.com/history/stats/discip05.html |url-status=live }}

;Key

{{col-begin}}

{{col-3}}

No. = Squad number

Pos = Playing position

Nat. = Nationality

Apps = Appearances

{{col-3}}

GK = Goalkeeper

DF = Defender

MF = Midfielder

FW = Forward

{{col-3}}

File:Yellow card.svg = Yellow cards

File:Red card.svg = Red cards

{{col-end}}

Numbers in parentheses denote appearances as substitute. Players with number struck through and marked {{dagger|alt=Left club during playing season}} left the club during the playing season.

Source:

{{Portal|English football}}

• 2004-05 in English football

{{reflist}}

{{Arsenal F.C. seasons}}

{{2004–05 in English football}}

{{good article}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:2004-05 Arsenal F.C. season}}

Category:Arsenal F.C. seasons

Arsenal