2000–01 Arsenal F.C. season

{{see also|1999–2000 Arsenal F.C. season}}

In the 1999–2000 season, Arsenal participated in the Premier League. Despite the loss of striker Nicolas Anelka to Real Madrid, the club significantly strengthened in the summer, signing defenders Oleh Luzhnyi and Sylvinho as well as forwards Davor Šuker and Thierry Henry. Inconsistent performances in the league against lowly opposition meant Arsenal never posed a serious title challenge, ending the campaign as runners-up, 18 points behind Manchester United.{{cite web|title=Wenger at Arsenal: 1999–2000 – part 1 |url=http://www.blog.woolwicharsenal.co.uk/archives/2024 |work=The History of Arsenal |date=6 June 2011 |access-date=22 September 2013}}{{cite web|title=1999/2000 – we end up 18 points behind Man U and lose on penalties in all 3 cups |url=http://www.blog.woolwicharsenal.co.uk/archives/2028 |work=The History of Arsenal |date=8 June 2011 |access-date=22 September 2013}} The club had another poor season in the Champions League, finishing third in their group; this won them a consolation place in the UEFA Cup and Arsenal managed to go all the way to the final, where they faced Galatasaray in Copenhagen. The match ended in a 0–0 draw with few chances for either side to score; it went to penalties and Arsenal lost after Šuker and Patrick Vieira missed their spot-kicks.{{cite news |title=Football: Not again; First Nayim, now it's Popescu. Arsenal's Euro dream is wrecked by the curse of Spurs |first=John |last=Dillon |url=https://www.questia.com/read/1G1-62158858 |newspaper=Daily Mirror |location=London |date=18 May 2000 |access-date=26 October 2012 |archive-date=29 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029223542/https://www.gale.com/databases/questia |url-status=dead }}{{subscription required}}

Arsenal's first signing in the transfer window was Cameroon international Lauren from Mallorca for an estimated fee of £7 million.{{cite news |title=Arsenal add Lauren to their strength |page=24 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=31 May 2000}} Robert Pires moved to Arsenal in July 2000 and was later joined by Brazilian Edu; both players were transferred from Marseille and Corinthians respectively. Sylvain Wiltord joined on a club-record fee from Bordeaux, believed to be £13 million.{{cite news |title=Football: Premiership: Wenger finally gets Wiltord |page=B3 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=27 August 2000}} Defenders Guy Demel, Igors Stepanovs and Sebastian Svärd were also purchased during the season, as well as forward Tomas Danilevičius, who impressed on a trial spell.{{cite news |title=Thompson backs down on Elliott 'elbow' claim |first=Christopher |last=Davies |page=44 |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=14 December 2000}}

After 13 years of building his career at Arsenal, defender Nigel Winterburn moved to West Ham United on a free transfer; he was described by Wenger as a "consummate professional", who "has not only shown a remarkable amount of commitment to Arsenal but has also proven that he is an excellent footballer."{{cite news |title=Football: Winterburn signs for West Ham |first=Simon |last=Lansley |page=32 |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=23 June 2000}} Winterburn was joined by Šuker, who also signed for West Ham. Midfielders Marc Overmars and Emmanuel Petit joined Barcelona for a combined fee of £30 million.{{cite news |title=Overmars: I always dreamed of Barca; Barcelona grab £30m Overmars and Petit |first=David |last=Bond |page=84 |newspaper=Evening Standard|location=London |date=28 July 2000}} Other notable departures included Christopher Wreh to Saudi club Al-Hilal and teenage striker Jay Bothroyd to Coventry City for £1 million.

File:Robert Pires1.JPG joined Arsenal in the transfer window]]

To prepare for the upcoming season Arsenal took part in several pre-season friendlies, both with local, and international teams including Barcelona and Ajax in the Amsterdam Tournament.{{Cite web|url=http://www.thearsenalhistory.com/stat/aftlu.htm|title=Arsenal First Team Line-ups|website=thearsenalhistory.com|access-date=2019-01-17}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.arseweb.com/cgi-bin/p?00-01/calendar.awf|title=ArseWeb Calendar|website=arseweb.com|access-date=2019-01-17}} They first played Boreham Wood on 14 July, ending in a surprising, but disappointing 1–1 draw. They won against Barnet on 22 July,{{Cite web|url=https://www.skysports.com/arsenal-results/2000-01|title=Arsenal (Sky Sports)|publisher=Sky Sports|language=en|access-date=2019-01-17}} before heading abroad to play Mainz 05 on 30 July in a 2–0 victory.{{Cite web|url=http://www.thearsenalhistory.com/?p=14339|title=Every Arsenal Game in "On This Day" Order|last=Andy Kelly|date=2017-01-28|website=The Arsenal History|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-01-17}} Arsenal also took part in the 2000 Amsterdam Tournament, taking place from 3 to 5 August, however losing both games to Barcelona and Ajax, eventually finishing bottom of the group.{{Cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesa/amsterdam.html|title=Amsterdam Tournament|publisher=Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation|access-date=2019-01-17}} The end of their pre-season ended on a more positive note with victories against both Dunfermline Athletic, and a 7–0 thrashing of Stevenage for their last game of the pre-season on 12 August.

{{Football box collapsible|id=Boreham Wood vs. Arsenal|date=14 July 2000|round=Friendly|score=1-1|report=http://www.arseweb.com/00-01/reports/140700.html|team1=Boreham Wood|goals1=Selby {{goal}}|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Lauren {{goal}}|stadium=Meadow Park|location=Borehamwood|result=D}}{{Football box collapsible|id=Barnet vs. Arsenal|date=22 July 2000|round=Friendly|score=0-1|report=https://www.skysports.com/football/barnet-vs-arsenal/113489|team1=Barnet|goals1=|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Pennant {{goal}}|stadium=Underhill Stadium|location=London|attendance=3,938|result=W}}{{Football box collapsible|id=Mainz 05 vs. Arsenal|date=30 July 2000|round=Friendly|score=0-2|report=|team1=Mainz 05|goals1=|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Lauren {{goal}}
Kanu {{goal}}|stadium=Bruchwegstadion|location=Mainz, Germany|attendance=4,533|result=W}}{{Football box collapsible|id=Dunfermline Athletic vs. Arsenal|date=9 August 2000|round=Friendly|score=0-3|report=https://www.skysports.com/football/dunfmline-vs-arsenal/113533|team1=Dunfermline Athletic|goals1=|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Henry {{goal}}
Ljungberg{{goal}}
Kanu {{goal}}|stadium=East End Park|location=Dunfermline, Scotland|result=W}}{{Football box collapsible|id=Stevenage vs. Arsenal|date=12 August 2000|round=Friendly|score=0-7|report=|team1=Stevenage|goals1=|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Henry {{goal}}{{goal}}{{goal}}
Bergkamp {{goal}}{{goal}}
Parlour {{goal}}
Kanu {{goal}}|stadium=Broadhall Way|location=Stevenage|result=W}}

{{See also|2000 Amsterdam Tournament}}

Arsenal joined Barcelona and Lazio taking part in the annual Amsterdam tournament, hosted by Ajax at their home stadium. Within this tournament, each team plays two games where 3 points is given for a win, 1 point for a draw, and 0 for a loss. However an additional point is also granted for every goal scored.Veronese, Andrea; Stokkermans, Karel (9 July 2009). "Amsterdam Tournament". Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation (RSSSF) Retrieved 17 January 2019

{{Football box collapsible|id=Barcelona v. Arsenal|date=3 August 2000|round=Amsterdam Tournament|score=2-1|report=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesa/amsterdam.html#00|team1=FC Barcelona|goals1=Guardiola {{goal|3|pen}}
Cocu {{goal|39}}|team2=Arsenal|goals2=Danilevicius {{goal|33}}|stadium=Amsterdam Arena|location=Amsterdam, Netherlands|attendance=50,000|result=L}}{{Football box collapsible|id=Ajax vs. Arsenal|date=5 August 2000|round=Amsterdam Tournament|score=2-0|report=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesa/amsterdam.html#00|team1=Ajax|goals1=Arveladze {{goal|38}}
Hosé {{goal|89}}|team2=Arsenal|goals2=|stadium=Amsterdam Arena|location=Amsterdam, Netherlands|attendance=51,000|result=L}}

With 2 losses and just 1 goal scored, Arsenal finished bottom of the table. Barcelona and Ajax finished with a draw and a win each, but with Barcelona storming the top of the table with 5 goals, they won the overall competition.

{{:2000 Amsterdam Tournament|showteam=ARS}}

{{see also|2000–01 FA Premier League}}

Arsenal opened the league season away to Sunderland on 19 August 2000. A second-half header from Niall Quinn was enough to earn the home team victory, in a match where Arsenal wasted numerous chances to equalise.{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/aug/21/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=21 August 2000 |access-date=2 August 2012 |last=Brodkin |first=Jon |title=Cracks show as Arsenal suffer from tunnel vision}} Patrick Vieira was sent off for swiping his forearm at defender Darren Williams in injury time and Wenger was involved in an altercation with fourth official Paul Taylor in the stadium tunnel. He was later charged with "alleged threatening behaviour and physical intimidation"{{cite news |title=Wenger hit by 12-match dug-out ban |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/4773429/Wenger-hit-by-12-match-dug-out-ban.html |first=Christopher |last=Davies |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=11 October 2000 |access-date=5 August 2012}} and found guilty by a FA disciplinary commission.{{#tag:ref|Wenger was initially given a 12-match touchline ban and a fine of four weeks' salary. He successfully appealed but was reprimanded and fined £10,000 for his actions.{{cite news |title=FA drop 12-match touchline ban on Wenger |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/2998039/FA-drop-12-match-touchline-ban-on-Wenger.html |first=Christopher |last=Davies |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=2 February 2001 |access-date=5 August 2012}}|group=lower-alpha}} Right back Lauren scored on his debut for Arsenal against Liverpool two days after; Vieira was dismissed off the pitch for the second successive game, with Liverpool being reduced to nine men when midfielders Gary McAllister and Dietmar Hamann were also shown red cards.{{cite news |title=Arsenal find way through red mist |first=Matt |last=Dickinson |page=21 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=22 August 2000}} In Vieira's final match before his five-match suspension, he scored two goals against Charlton Athletic at Highbury in a 5–3 win.{{cite news |title=Vieira finds comfort in French connection |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |page=23 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=28 August 2000}} Arsenal earned a point away to Chelsea in the first week of September{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/sep/07/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=7 September 2000 |access-date=5 August 2012 |last=Lacey |first=David |title=Silvinho strike stuns Chelsea}} and drew 1–1 against Bradford City.{{cite news |title=Arsenal's failings prove hard to defend |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |page=25 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=11 September 2000}} Although the team beat Coventry City 2–1,{{cite news |title=Vernazza's sense of fun brings guarded optimism |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |page=23 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=18 September 2000}} they needed a late goal scored by Dennis Bergkamp to draw away against promoted Ipswich Town.{{cite news |title=Arsenal forced to dig deep to discover way past Bramble |first=Russell |last=Kempson |page=22 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=25 September 2000}}

A "spectacular" goal by Henry against Manchester United on 1 October 2000 inflicted the champions their first league defeat of the season.{{Cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/949857.stm |publisher=BBC Sport |date=1 October 2000 |access-date=2 August 2012 |title=United beaten by Henry brilliance}} The Frenchman scored after receiving a pass from Gilles Grimandi in the 30th minute; with his back to goal he flicked the ball up before pivoting to strike the ball over goalkeeper Fabian Barthez.{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/oct/02/match.sport13 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=2 October 2000 |access-date=1 August 2012 |last=Lacey |first=David |title=Henry genius takes United down a peg}} Henry scored the winning goal against Aston Villa the following week{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/oct/16/match.sport8 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=22 October 2000 |access-date=1 August 2012 |last=Brodkin |first=Jon |title=Harris lives in fear of the drop}} and a further league victory, away at West Ham United moved Arsenal level on points with Manchester United.{{Cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/oct/22/match.sport6 |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=22 October 2000 |access-date=1 August 2012 |last=Callow |first=Nick |title=More woe for Rio}} The month ended with a 5–0 win against Manchester City.{{Cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/premier-league/4774646/Henry-wreaks-havoc-on-City.html |newspaper=The Sunday Telegraph |location=London |date=29 October 2000 |access-date=2 August 2012 |last=Malam |first=Colin |title=Henry wreaks havoc on City}}

A penalty scored by Henry against Middlesbrough ensured a fifth successive league win for Arsenal.{{cite news |title=Middlesbrough receive yet another kick in the teeth |first=David |last=McVay |page=S5 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=6 November 2000}} They were held to a stalemate against Derby County;{{cite news |title=Delap's lapses let fatigued Arsenal off the hook |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |page=S4 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=13 November 2000}} this was followed by defeat at Goodison Park away to Everton in which Wenger called the team performance as "not acceptable".{{cite news |title=Arsenal pay as their minds drift |url=http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/00-01/reports/arsenal_h.asp |first=Oliver |last=Kay |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=20 November 2000 |access-date=8 August 2012}} Arsenal lost their second consecutive league match against Leeds United when a deflected Olivier Dacourt free-kick went past goalkeeper Alex Manninger and into his net.{{cite news |title=Arsenal have to settle for second best |first=Matt |last=Dickinson |page=20 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=27 November 2000}} A win against Southampton{{cite news |title= Ground control impairs Arsenal |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |page=39 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=4 December 2000}} came before a 5–0 victory at home to Newcastle United where Ray Parlour scored a hat-trick.{{cite news |title=Parlour announces return to title race for Arsenal |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |page=35 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=11 December 2000}}

{{Quote box|quote="We are not in March yet and the season is already over. I cannot be very proud of that. This hurts."|source=Arsène Wenger after Arsenal's defeat to Manchester United, February 2001{{cite news |title=Yorke leads way as lethal United humiliate Arsenal |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/2999588/Yorke-leads-way-as-lethal-United-humiliate-Arsenal.html |work=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=25 February 2001 |access-date=28 August 2012}}|width=260px}}

The Christmas period began with a 1–1 draw against local rivals Tottenham Hotspur.{{cite news |title=Vieira keeps United within range |first=Russell |last=Kempson |page=33 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=19 December 2000}} A 4–0 defeat away to Liverpool concerned Wenger, who noted a lack of goals being problematic: "It has been our problem all season. We so very rarely score two in a match, and that makes life very difficult."{{cite news |title=Arsenal on recovery mission |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/arsenal-on-recovery-mission-6357242.html |newspaper=Evening Standard|location=London |date=24 December 2000 |access-date=8 August 2012}} Henry scored a hat-trick in a 6–1 win at home to Leicester City on Boxing Day.{{cite news |title=Henry's Highbury hatful |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/leicester-city/2995294/Henrys-Highbury-hatful.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Christopher |last=Davies |date=26 December 2000 |access-date=31 August 2012}} A draw against Sunderland, having been 2–0 up at half time meant Arsenal ended the calendar year in second place, eight points behind Manchester United.{{cite news |title=McCann makes Arsenal suffer |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/sunderland/2995513/McCann-makes-Arsenal-suffer.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Colin |last=Malam |date=30 December 2000 |access-date=31 August 2012}}

Charlton Athletic recorded their first victory over Arsenal in 44 years, on New Year's Day; Jonatan Johansson scored the winning goal in the first half.{{cite news |title=Wenger on spot after penalty miss hands Charlton spoils |first=David |last=Powell |page=33 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=2 January 2001}} Back-to-back draws, first at Chelsea{{cite news |title=Arsenal lose their way again |first=Kevin |last=McCarra |page=29 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=15 January 2001}} and then Leicester City,{{cite news |title=Captain issues orders but Gunners misfire |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/jan/22/match.leicestercity |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Russell |last=Thomas |date=30 December 2000 |access-date=31 August 2012}} preceded a 2–0 win against Bradford City.{{cite news |title=Gunners ease into second gear |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/jan/31/match.bradford |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=David |last=Lacey |date=30 December 2000 |access-date=31 August 2012}} Bergkamp scored the winning goal at Coventry City; it was the club's first away win since November.{{cite news |title=Bergkamp rises above mediocre fare to secure points |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/2998130/Bergkamp-rises-above-mediocre-fare-to-secure-points.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Rory |last=Collins |date=3 February 2001 |access-date=31 August 2012}} A 1–0 victory at home to Ipswich Town on 10 February 2001 moved the club five points clear of Liverpool.{{cite news |title=Adams shines away from glare of national spotlight |first=Alyson |last=Rudd |page=35 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=12 February 2000}}

Arsenal faced Manchester United at Old Trafford, needing a win to realistically have a chance of winning the league. Striker Dwight Yorke scored in the second minute for the home team, before Henry equalised.{{cite news |title=United hit Arsenal for six |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/2999656/United-hit-Arsenal-for-six.html |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=25 February 2001 |access-date=31 August 2012}} They conceded within 60 seconds, when Igors Stepanovs played Yorke onside to put the ball past Seaman. He completed his hat-trick, before Roy Keane, Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Teddy Sheringham each scored to compound a 6–1 loss – Arsenal's biggest defeat in the Premier League. Wenger rued the performance, saying "...we were very naive and gave too much freedom to United. No one communicated."

Wiltord scored a hat-trick in Arsenal's 3–0 win over West Ham United on 3 March 2001.{{cite news |title=Wiltord restores normal service |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3000021/Wiltord-restores-normal-service.html |first=Clive |last=White |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=3 March 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} A scoreless draw at Aston Villa{{cite news |title=Grim for Grimandi in stalemate |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/aston-villa/3001151/Grim-for-Grimandi-in-stalemate.html |first=Henry |last=Winter |newspaper=The Sunday Telegraph |location=London |date=18 March 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} was followed with a 2–0 win against Tottenham Hotspur; both clubs observed a minute's silence before the game, in honour of former Arsenal midfielder David Rocastle, who died at age 33.{{cite news |title=Vieira gives Hoddle a reality check |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/apr/02/match.sport8 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=David |last=Lacey |date=2 April 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} Arsenal rested several first-teamers for the trip to Manchester City and won the match 4–0.{{cite news |title=City tumble towards trap door |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/apr/12/match.sport3 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Dominic |last=Fifield |date=12 April 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} However, defeat to Middlesbrough three days after handed the league championship to Manchester United, for the third consecutive season.{{cite news |title=Wenger sees no end to the monopoly|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/apr/16/match.sport5 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Martin |last=Thorpe |date=16 April 2001 |access-date=19 September 2012}} Wenger refuted criticism over the team's league performance, and said, "It's not just Arsenal's responsibility to push Manchester United. There are 10 to 15 teams with the potential quality of Arsenal."

Following their exit in the Champions League in midweek, Arsenal beat Everton 4–1 on 21 April 2001.{{cite news |title=Grimandi's rare goal cures Arsenal's hangover |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/everton/3003768/Grimandis-rare-goal-cures-Arsenals-hangover.html |first=Roy |last=Collins |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=21 April 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} They moved four points clear in second with a further win, this time away at Derby County.{{cite news |title=Derby on the brink as Pires keeps Arsenal on course |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/derby-county/3004301/Derby-on-the-brink-as-Pires-keeps-Arsenal-on-course.html |first=Clive |last=White |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=28 April 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} Wiltord scored the winning goal against Leeds United to secure a Champions League place for Arsenal;{{cite news |title=Arsenal secure place at Europe's top table |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/leeds-united/3004770/Arsenal-secure-place-at-Europes-top-table.html |first=Patrick |last=Barclay |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=5 May 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}} a draw against Newcastle United confirmed the club as runners-up for the third season running.{{cite news |title=Silver medal for Gunners |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/may/16/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=John |last=Wardle |date=16 May 2001 |access-date=19 September 2012}} Arsenal ended their league campaign against Southampton, in the final match played at The Dell. With the score 2–2 in the 89th minute, striker Matthew Le Tissier volleyed the ball from inside the penalty box and over goalkeeper Alex Manninger, to win the match for the home team.{{cite news |title=The Dell tolls for Arsenal |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/southampton/3005730/The-Dell-tolls-for-Arsenal.html |first=Roy |last=Collins |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=19 May 2001 |access-date=20 September 2012}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 1

|date = 19 August 2000

|team1 = Sunderland

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/887663.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Quinn {{goal|53}}

|goals2 =

|location = Sunderland

|stadium = Stadium of Light

|attendance = 46,347

|referee = Steve Dunn

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 2

|date = 21 August 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/890559.stm Report]

|team2 = Liverpool

|goals1 = Lauren {{goal|8}}
Henry {{goal|89}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,014

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 3

|date = 26 August 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 5–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/897165.stm Report]

|team2 = Charlton Athletic

|goals1 = Vieira {{goal|19||61}}
Henry {{goal|46||67}}
Sylvinho {{goal|89}}

|goals2 = {{goal|24||30}} Hunt
{{goal|58}} Stuart

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,025

|referee = Stephen Lodge

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 4

|date = 6 September 2000

|team1 = Chelsea

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/911712.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Hasselbaink {{goal|31}}
Zola {{goal|58}}

|goals2 = {{goal|76}} Henry
{{goal|86}} Sylvinho

|location = London

|stadium = Stamford Bridge

|attendance = 34,923

|referee = Mike Riley

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 5

|date = 9 September 2000

|team1 = Bradford City

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/916706.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = McCall {{goal|10}}

|goals2 = {{goal|66}} Cole

|location = Bradford

|stadium = Valley Parade

|attendance = 17,160

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 6

|date = 16 September 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/926808.stm Report]

|team2 = Coventry City

|goals1 = Wiltord {{goal|24}}
Vernazza {{goal|72}}

|goals2 = {{goal|80}} Hadji

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,794

|referee = Mike Dean

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 7

|date = 23 September 2000

|team1 = Ipswich Town

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/937976.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Stewart {{goal|49}}

|goals2 = {{goal|84}} Bergkamp

|location = Ipswich

|stadium = Portman Road

|attendance = 22,030

|referee = Paul Durkin

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 8

|date = 1 October 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/949857.stm Report]

|team2 = Manchester United

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|30}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,146

|referee = Graham Barber

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 9

|date = 14 October 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/970930.stm Report]

|team2 = Aston Villa

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|61}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,042

|referee = Rob Harris

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 10

|date = 21 October 2000

|team1 = West Ham United

|score = 1–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/982086.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Pearce {{goal|56}}

|goals2 = {{goal|12}} Pires
{{goal|21|o.g.}} Ferdinand

|location = London

|stadium = Boleyn Ground

|attendance = 26,034

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 11

|date = 28 October 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 5–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/995682.stm Report]

|team2 = Manchester City

|goals1 = Cole {{goal|44}}
Bergkamp {{goal|52}}
Wiltord {{goal|75}}
Henry {{goal|82||88}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,049

|referee = Rob Styles

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 12

|date = 4 November 2000

|team1 = Middlesbrough

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1005729.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = {{goal|25|pen.}} Henry

|location = Middlesbrough

|stadium = Riverside Stadium

|attendance = 29,541

|referee = Andy D'Urso

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 13

|date = 11 November 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 0–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1017362.stm Report]

|team2 = Derby County

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,679

|referee = Stephen Lodge

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 14

|date = 18 November 2000

|team1 = Everton

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1028522.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Cadamarteri {{goal|54}}
K. Campbell {{goal|73}}

|goals2 =

|location = Liverpool

|stadium = Goodison Park

|attendance = 33,106

|referee = Mike Riley

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 15

|date = 26 November 2000

|team1 = Leeds United

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1041800.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Dacourt {{goal|56}}

|goals2 =

|location = Leeds

|stadium = Elland Road

|attendance = 38,084

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 16

|date = 2 December 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1050453.stm Report]

|team2 = Southampton

|goals1 = Vieira {{goal|85}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,036

|referee = Steve Dunn

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 17

|date = 9 December 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 5–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1061915.stm Report]

|team2 = Newcastle United

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|13}}
Parlour {{goal|16||86||90+3}}
Kanu {{goal|52}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,052

|referee = Mike Dean

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 18

|date = 18 December 2000

|team1 = Tottenham Hotspur

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1075429.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Rebrov {{goal|31}}

|goals2 = {{goal|89}} Vieira

|location = London

|stadium = White Hart Lane

|attendance = 36,062

|referee = Jeff Winter

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 19

|date = 23 December 2000

|team1 = Liverpool

|score = 4–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1084457.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Gerrard {{goal|11}}
Owen {{goal|62}}
Barmby {{goal|71}}
Fowler {{goal|90+1}}

|goals2 =

|location = Liverpool

|stadium = Anfield

|attendance = 44,144

|referee = Paul Durkin

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 20

|date = 26 December 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 6–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1085808.stm Report]

|team2 = Leicester City

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|35||66||82}}
Vieira {{goal|50}}
Ljungberg {{goal|75}}
Adams {{goal|90}}

|goals2 = {{goal|54}} Akinbiyi

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,007

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 21

|date = 30 December 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1092979.stm Report]

|team2 = Sunderland

|goals1 = Vieira {{goal|5}}
Dixon {{goal|40}}

|goals2 = {{goal|53|pen.}} Phillips
{{goal|83}} McCann

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,026

|referee = Graham Barber

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 22

|date = 1 January 2001

|team1 = Charlton Athletic

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1094815.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Johansson {{goal|39}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = The Valley

|attendance = 20,043

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 23

|date = 13 January 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1114336.stm Report]

|team2 = Chelsea

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|3}}

|goals2 = {{goal|62}} Terry

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,071

|referee = David Elleray

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 24

|date = 20 January 2001

|team1 = Leicester City

|score = 0–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1126693.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Leicester

|stadium = Filbert Street

|attendance = 21,872

|referee = Barry Knight

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 25

|date = 30 January 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1143577.stm Report]

|team2 = Bradford City

|goals1 = Parlour {{goal|17}}
Lauren {{goal|26}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,318

|referee = Clive Wilkes

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 26

|date = 3 February 2001

|team1 = Coventry City

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1150542.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Bergkamp {{goal|78}}

|location = Coventry

|stadium = Highfield Road

|attendance = 22,035

|referee = Mike Dean

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 27

|date = 10 February 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1162815.stm Report]

|team2 = Ipswich Town

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|67}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,011

|referee = Rob Harris

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 28

|date = 25 February 2001

|team1 = Manchester United

|score = 6–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1187685.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Yorke {{goal|3||18||22}}
Keane {{goal|26}}
Solskjær {{goal|38}}
Sheringham {{goal|90+1}}

|goals2 = Henry {{goal|16}}

|location = Manchester

|stadium = Old Trafford

|attendance = 67,535

|referee = Paul Durkin

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 29

|date = 3 March 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1198999.stm Report]

|team2 = West Ham United

|goals1 = Wiltord {{goal|6||13||39}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,071

|referee = Mike Riley (referee)

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 30

|date = 18 March 2001

|team1 = Aston Villa

|score = 0–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1226427.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Birmingham

|stadium = Villa Park

|attendance = 36,111

|referee = Barry Knight

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 31

|date = 31 March 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1249426.stm Report]

|team2 = Tottenham Hotspur

|goals1 = Pires {{goal|70}}
Henry {{goal|87}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,121

|referee = Paul Durkin

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 32

|date = 11 April 2001

|team1 = Manchester City

|score = 0–4

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1270382.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = {{goal|8||16}} Ljungberg
{{goal|8}} Wiltord
{{goal|36}} Kanu

|location = Manchester

|stadium = Maine Road

|attendance = 33,444

|referee = Neale Barry

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 33

|date = 14 April 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 0–3

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1274584.stm Report]

|team2 = Middlesbrough

|goals1 =

|goals2 = {{goal|34|o.g.}} Edu
{{goal|38|o.g.}} Sylvinho
{{goal|58}} Ricard

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 37,879

|referee = Paul Durkin

|result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 34

|date = 21 April 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 4–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1285862.stm Report]

|team2 = Everton

|goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|21}}
Grimandi {{goal|55}}
Wiltord {{goal|67}}
Henry {{goal|87}}

|goals2 = {{goal|24}} K. Campbell

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,029

|referee = Dermot Gallagher

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 35

|date = 28 April 2001

|team1 = Derby County

|score = 1–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1298567.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Eranio {{goal|45+2}}

|goals2 = {{goal|21}} Kanu
{{goal|80}} Pires

|location = Derby

|stadium = Pride Park Stadium

|attendance = 29,567

|referee = Graham Barber

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 36

|date = 5 May 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1310320.stm Report]

|team2 = Leeds United

|goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|17}}
Wiltord {{goal|56}}

|goals2 = {{goal|58}} Harte

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,142

|referee = Peter Jones

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 37

|date = 15 May 2001

|team1 = Newcastle United

|score = 0–0

|report = [https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2001/05/15/england/premier-league/newcastle-united-football-club/arsenal-football-club/9870/ Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 =

|location = Newcastle upon Tyne

|stadium = St James' Park

|attendance = 50,729

|referee = Alan Wiley

|result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = 38

|date = 19 May 2001

|team1 = Southampton

|score = 3–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1338713.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 = Kachloul {{goal|46||61}}
Le Tissier {{goal|89}}

|goals2 = {{goal|28}} Cole
{{goal|54}} Ljungberg

|location = Southampton

|stadium = The Dell, Southampton

|attendance = 15,252

|referee = Paul Taylor

|result = L

}}

{{:2000–01 FA Premier League|showteam=ARS}}

{{Fb_rs |hw=15 |hd=3 |hl=1 |hgf=45 |hga=13 |aw=5 |ad=7 |al=7 |agf=18 |aga=25 }}

{{Fb rs footer|u= |s={{cite web |url=http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2000-2001 |title=Premier League – 2000–01 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=26 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102144411/http://www.statto.com/football/stats/england/premier-league/2000-2001 |archive-date=2 November 2012 |url-status=dead }} |date=October 2012}}

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

|header=Round

|label1= Ground

| res1=A/H/H/A/A/H/A/H/H/A/H/A/H/A/A/H/H/A/A/H/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/A/H/H/A/H/A/A

|label2= Result

| res2=L/W/W/D/D/W/D/W/W/W/W/W/D/L/L/W/W/D/L/W/D/L/D/D/W/W/W/L/W/D/W/W/L/W/W/W/D/L

|label3= Position

| res3=14/7/1/4/5/2/3/3/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/3/3/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2/2

|text_H=Home|text_A=Away

|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/2000-2001 |title=Arsenal – 2000–01 |publisher=Statto Organisation |access-date=26 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130324131024/http://www.statto.com/football/teams/arsenal/2000-2001 |archive-date=24 March 2013 |url-status=dead }} |notes=

|date=June 2012

}}

{{see also|2000–01 FA Cup}}

Arsenal entered the FA Cup in the third round, receiving a bye as a Premier League club. Their opening match was a 1–0 victory against Carlisle United; Wiltord scored the winning goal in the 22nd minute.{{cite news |title=Wily Wiltord helps Arsenal maintain the class divide |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2995947/Wily-Wiltord-helps-Arsenal-maintain-the-class-divide.html |first=Colin |last=Malam |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=6 January 2001 |access-date=26 October 2012}} At Loftus Road, a 6–0 away win at Queens Park Rangers in the fourth round represented Wenger's "best win as Arsenal manager" and the club's best away win in the FA Cup for 64 years.{{cite news |title=Arsenal question Wenger's priorities |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/2997615/Arsenal-question-Wengers-priorities.html |first=John |last=Ley |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |date=28 January 2001 |access-date=26 October 2012}} Wiltord, who started the match against Chelsea as a substitute, came off the bench to score twice in the second half and sent Arsenal into the quarter-finals, where they enjoyed a comfortable win against Blackburn Rovers of the First Division.{{cite news |title=Wiltord picks Chelsea's pocket |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/feb/19/match.sport |first=David |last=Lacey |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=19 February 2001 |access-date=26 October 2012}} Arsenal was drawn against Tottenham Hotspur in the semi-final and it was their rivals who had taken the lead in the 14th minute.{{cite news |title=Pinpoint Pires has the final say |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/apr/09/match.sport3 |first=David |last=Lacey |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=9 April 2001 |access-date=14 October 2018}} Vieira equalised before several players – "Pires, Parlour and Wiltord continued to squander chances". With 17 minutes remaining in the match, Pires scored via a tap-in to secure Arsenal's passage into the final.

{{main article|2001 FA Cup Final}}

In the final against Liverpool, played at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Arsenal began the brighter of the two teams, before being denied two penalty shouts – one involving Stéphane Henchoz, who cleared Henry's shot with his hand.{{cite news |title=Owen spikes the Gunners |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/may/13/match.sport |first=Paul |last=Wilson |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=13 May 2001 |access-date=31 January 2013 }} In the 72nd minute, Arsenal took a "deserved" lead, when Pires played Ljungberg clean through to round goalkeeper Sander Westerveld and shoot. Liverpool equalised nine minutes after, through a Gary McAllister free-kick, which was not cleared properly by Arsenal; Michael Owen "waited for the loose ball to come down before drilling a rebound into Seaman's bottom right corner". Owen scored in the 88th minute, outpacing both Adams and Dixon to shoot the ball into the bottom right corner of the goalnet. The defeat prompted Wenger to admit new players would be brought in during the transfer window.{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/1327326.stm|title=Wenger targets fresh blood |date=13 May 2001 |access-date=11 July 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport }}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Third round

|date = 6 January 2001

|team1 = Carlisle United

|score = 0–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/1102568.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Wiltord {{goal|22}}

|location = Carlisle

|stadium = Brunton Park

|attendance = 15,300

|referee = Stephen Lodge

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fourth round

|date = 27 January 2001

|team1 = Queens Park Rangers

|score = 0–6

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/1138764.stm Report]

|team2 = Arsenal

|goals1 =

|goals2 = Plummer {{goal|32|o.g.}}
Wiltord {{goal|33||56}}
Rose {{goal|49|o.g.}}
Pires {{goal|58}}
Bergkamp {{goal|74}}

|location = London

|stadium = Loftus Road

|attendance = 19,003

|referee = Neale Barry

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Fifth round

|date = 18 February 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/1177270.stm Report]

|team2 = Chelsea

|goals1 = Henry {{goal|52|pen}}
Wiltord {{goal|74||85}}

|goals2 = Hasselbaink {{goal|62}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 38,096

|referee = Graham Barber

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Quarter-finals

|date = 10 March 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 3–0

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/1211715.stm Report]

|team2 = Blackburn Rovers

|goals1 = Wiltord {{goal|2}}
Adams {{goal|5}}
Pires {{goal|36}}

|goals2 =

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 36,304

|referee = Jeff Winter

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Semi-finals

|date = 8 April 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 2–1

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/1266295.stm Report]

|team2 = Tottenham Hotspur

|goals1 = Vieira {{goal|33}}
Pires {{goal|74}}

|goals2 = Doherty {{goal|14}}

|location = Manchester

|stadium = Old Trafford

|attendance = 63,541

|referee = Graham Poll

|result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Final

|date = 12 May 2001

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/1324699.stm Report]

|team2 = Liverpool

|goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|72}}

|goals2 = Owen {{goal|83||88}}

|location = Cardiff

|stadium = Millennium Stadium

|attendance = 72,500

|referee = Steve Dunn

|result = L

}}

{{main article|2000–01 Football League Cup}}

Together, with the other clubs playing in European football, Arsenal entered the Football League Cup in the third round, where they were drawn at home to fellow Premier League club Ipswich Town. Despite dominating territorial advantage, the Arsenal team were beaten 2–1 – the winning goal scored late by substitute James Scowcroft.{{cite news |title=Ipswich spike Gunners |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/nov/02/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Martin |last=Thorpe |date=2 November 2000 |access-date=19 September 2012}}

{{Football box collapsible

|round = Third round

|date = 1 November 2000

|team1 = Arsenal

|score = 1–2

|report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/worthington_cup/1000608.stm Report]

|team2 = Ipswich Town

|goals1 = Stepanovs {{goal|44}}

|goals2 = Clapham {{goal|2}}
Scowcroft {{goal|89}}

|location = London

|stadium = Highbury

|attendance = 26,105

|referee = Jeff Winter

|result = L

}}

{{main article|2000–01 UEFA Champions League}}

{{main article|2000–01 UEFA Champions League#First group stage}}

Arsenal won their first three matches in Group B, against Sparta Prague, Shakhtar Donetsk and Lazio.{{cite news |title=Lazio cop a lacing from Ljungberg |first=David |last=Lacey |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/may/07/match.sport |newspaper=The Guardian |date=28 September 2000 |access-date=26 October 2012 }} The club secured qualification into the second group stage with a 1–1 draw away at Lazio,{{cite news |title=Pires conquers Arsenal's stage fright |first=Russell |last=Kempson |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=18 October 2000}} before a win against Sparta Prague and defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk to end the first group stage with 13 points. Arsenal finished top of Group B due to a better head-to-head record.{{cite news |title=Rangers and Monaco bow out, Lyon squeak through |first=Chris |last=Wright |work=Agence France Presse |date=8 November 2000}}

{{:2000–01 UEFA Champions League group stage|transcludesection=Group B|show_matches=n|showteam=ARS}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 1

| date = 12 September 2000

| time =

| team1 = Sparta Prague {{flagicon|CZE}}

| score = 0–1

| report =

| team2 = {{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

| goals2 = Sylvinho {{goal|33}}

| location = Prague

| stadium = Letná

| attendance = 17,666

| referee = Gilles Veissière (France)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 2

| date = 20 September 2000

| time =

| team1 = Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

| score = 3–2

| report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/932484.stm Report]

| team2 = {{flagicon|UKR}} Shakhtar Donetsk

| goals1 = Wiltord {{goal|45}}
Keown {{goal|85||90}}

| goals2 = Bakharev {{goal|26}}
Vorobey {{goal|29}}

| location = London

| stadium = Highbury

| attendance = 33,922

| referee = Hartmut Strampe (Germany)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 3

| date = 27 September 2000

| time =

| team1 = Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

| score = 2–0

| report = [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/943405.stm Report]

| team2 = {{flagicon|ITA}} Lazio

| goals1 = Ljungberg {{goal|43||56}}

| goals2 =

| location = London

| stadium = Highbury

| attendance = 34,521

| referee = José García Aranda (Spain)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 4

|date=17 October 2000

|time=

|team1=Lazio {{flagicon|ITA}}

|score=1–1

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/977349.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=Nedvěd {{goal|25}}

|goals2=Pires {{goal|88}}

|location=Rome

|stadium=Stadio Olimpico

|attendance=40,151

|referee=Hellmut Krug (Germany)

| result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 5

|date=25 October 2000

|time=

|team1=Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

|score=4–2

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/991155.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|CZE}} Sparta Prague

|goals1=Parlour {{goal|5}}
Lauren {{goal|8}}
Dixon {{goal|35}}
Kanu {{goal|51}}

|goals2=Labant {{goal|40|pen.}}
Rosický {{goal|90}}

|location=London

|stadium=Highbury

|attendance=34,397

|referee=Alain Hamer (Luxembourg)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 6

|date=7 November 2000

|time=

|team1=Shakhtar Donetsk {{flagicon|UKR}}

|score=3–0

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1009461.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=Atelkin {{goal|34}}
Vorobey {{goal|57}}
Byelik {{goal|66}}

|goals2=

|location=Donetsk

|stadium=Shakhtar Stadium

|attendance=30,000

|referee=Knud Erik Fisker (Denmark)

| result = L

}}

{{main article|2000–01 UEFA Champions League#Second group stage}}

Arsenal succumbed to a 4–1 defeat in their opening match against Spartak Moscow, which was the biggest loss inflicted on the club in 18 years.{{cite news |title=Arsenal freeze after sizzling start |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2000/nov/23/championsleague.sport |work=The Guardian |location=London |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |date=23 November 2000 |access-date=1 February 2013}} The team let slip a two-goal lead against Bayern Munich at Highbury on 5 December 2000,{{cite news |title=Champions League: Arsenal surrender advantage |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/2994021/Champions-League-Arsenal-surrender-advantage.html |work=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Christopher |last=Davies |date=5 December 2000 |access-date=1 February 2013}} before winning 1–0 at Olympique Lyonnais to keep their aspirations of qualifying for the quarter-finals attainable.{{cite news |title=Henry gives a striking French lesson |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/feb/14/championsleague.sport3 |work=The Guardian |location=London |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |date=14 February 2001 |access-date=1 February 2013}} In the reverse fixture, an equaliser scored by Edmílson in the last minute of normal time prompted Wenger to rue fatigue and the absence of captain Adams.{{cite news |title=Bayern loom large for Arsenal; German threat awaits Gunners after late blow |first=Michael |last=Hart |page=44 |newspaper=Evening Standard|location=London |date=22 February 2001}} Arsenal defeated Spartak Moscow by a solitary goal and in spite of losing to Bayern Munich on 14 March 2001, Lyon's draw with Spartak Moscow meant Arsenal qualified for the quarter-finals by the head-to-head rule.{{cite news |title=Henry keeps Arsenal afloat |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/mar/07/newsstory.sport6 |work=The Guardian |location=London |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |date=7 March 2001 |access-date=1 February 2013}}{{cite news |title=Champions League: Arsenal ride luck to squeeze into quarter-finals |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3000815/Champions-League-Arsenal-ride-luck-to-squeeze-into-quarter-finals.html |work=The Daily Telegraph|location=London |first=Henry |last=Winter |date=14 March 2001 |access-date=1 February 2013}}

{{:2000–01 UEFA Champions League second group stage|transcludesection=Group C|show_matches=n|showteam=ARS}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 1

|date=22 November 2000

|time=17:00

|team1= Spartak Moscow {{flagicon|RUS}}

|score=4–1

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1035890.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=Marcão {{goal|29||51}}
Titov {{goal|77}}
Robson {{goal|82}}

|goals2= Sylvinho {{goal|2}}

|location=Moscow

|stadium=Luzhniki Stadium

|attendance=63,000

|referee=Pierluigi Collina (Italy)

| result = L

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 2

|date=5 December 2000

|time=20:45

|team1= Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

|score=2–2

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1053918.stm Report]

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

|goals1=Henry {{goal|4}}
Kanu {{goal|55}}

|goals2=Tarnat {{goal|56}}
Scholl {{goal|66}}

|location=London

|stadium=Highbury

|attendance=35,318

|referee=Stefano Braschi (Switzerland)

| result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 3

|date=13 February 2001

|time=20:45

|team1= Lyon {{flagicon|FRA}}

|score=0–1

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1166463.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=

|goals2=Henry {{goal|59}}

|location=Lyon

|stadium=Stade de Gerland

|attendance=42,000

|referee=Urs Meier (Italy)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 4

|date=21 February 2001

|time=20:45

|team1= Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

|score=1–1

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1180974.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|FRA}} Lyon

|goals1=Bergkamp {{goal|33}}

|goals2=Edmílson {{goal|90}}

|location=London

|stadium=Highbury

|attendance=34,303

|referee=Ľuboš Michel (Slovakia)

| result = D

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 5

|date=6 March 2001

|time=20:45

|team1= Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

|score=1–0

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1203335.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|RUS}} Spartak Moscow

|goals1=Henry {{goal|82}}

|goals2=

|location=London

|stadium=Highbury

|attendance=35,296

|referee=Rune Pedersen (Norway)

| result = W

}}

{{Football box collapsible

| round = 6

|date=14 March 2001

|time=20:45

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

|score=1–0

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1218421.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=Élber {{goal|10}}

|goals2=

|location=Munich

|stadium=Olympiastadion

|attendance=58,000

|referee=Anders Frisk (Sweden)

| result = L

}}

{{main article|2000–01 UEFA Champions League#Knockout stage}}

Arsenal faced Spanish club Valencia and won 2–1 at Highbury in the first leg, with goals scored by Henry and Parlour.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/apr/05/championsleague.sport |title=Parlour leads Arsenal fightback |first=Jon |last=Brodkin |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=5 April 2001 |access-date=1 August 2012 }} The team however were beaten 1–0 at the Estadio Mestalla, thus being knocked-out on away goals.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/champions_league/1281080.stm |title=Valencia oust Arsenal |publisher=BBC Sport |date=17 April 2001 |access-date=24 May 2012}}

{{football box collapsible

|round=First leg

|date=4 April 2001

|time=20:45

|team1=Arsenal {{flagicon|ENG}}

|score=2–1

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1257895.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ESP}} Valencia

|goals1=Henry {{goal|58|}}
Parlour {{goal|60}}

|goals2=Ayala {{goal|41}}

|stadium=Highbury

|location=London

|attendance=35,104

|referee=Dick Jol (Netherlands)

|result=W

}}

{{football box collapsible

|round=Second leg

|date=17 April 2001

|time=20:45

|team1=Valencia {{flagicon|ESP}}

|score=1–0

|aggregatescore=2–2

|report=[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/champions_league/1281080.stm Report]

|team2={{flagicon|ENG}} Arsenal

|goals1=Carew {{goal|76}}

|goals2=

|stadium=Mestalla Stadium

|location=Valencia

|attendance=48,000

|referee=Kim Milton Nielsen (Denmark)

|result=L

|note=Valencia won on away goals.

}}

:Numbers in parentheses denote appearances as substitute.

:Players with name struck through and marked {{dagger|alt=Left club during playing season}} left the club during the playing season.

Source:

{{Portal|English football}}

• 2000–01 in English football
• List of Arsenal F.C. seasons

{{reflist}}

{{Arsenal F.C. seasons}}

{{2000–01 in English football}}

{{Use British English|date=September 2013}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:2000-01 Arsenal F.C. season}}

Arsenal

2000-01