Theo Walcott recently shared a revealing incident from 2012 involving Robin van Persie and Aaron Ramsey during a crucial Premier League match against Manchester City.
This revelation came as Walcott officially announced his retirement from football after departing Southampton.
In the 94th minute of the game, Tomas Rosicky provided a pass to Aaron Ramsey, who failed to convert the opportunity, missing a shot off target. Van Persie, then vying for the Golden Boot, was incensed that Ramsey didn’t pass to him.
The incident led to a heated argument and eventually a full-blown fight in the dressing room, where manager Arsene Wenger left the players to handle the situation themselves.
Walcott recounted the scenario, acknowledging the natural inclination of strikers to be selfish and chase goals.
The match against Manchester City saw Mikel Arteta score a crucial goal, marking a notable moment. However, Van Persie, not having scored, expressed his discontent, especially as Ramsey had an opportunity to set him up for a goal.
The tension escalated into a confrontation, resulting in a physical altercation among the players.
Wenger, observing the situation, discreetly retreated to his office, leaving the players to resolve the matter internally.
The incident didn’t affect Manchester City’s position, and they eventually clinched their first Premier League title that season. Van Persie, although frustrated, secured the Golden Boot with 30 goals and later moved to Manchester United.
Walcott, part of that Arsenal team, also announced his retirement from professional football during his conversation on Gary Neville’s Overlap YouTube channel.
The decision to retire stirred mixed emotions, as football had been a major part of his life since a young age. He expressed a desire to explore new experiences beyond the confines of the football world.
Throughout his career, Walcott journeyed from Southampton to Arsenal and later Everton, culminating his playing days back on the South Coast.
His achievements included winning two FA Cups and two Community Shields during his Arsenal tenure, in addition to making 47 appearances for England and scoring eight goals.
