The memory of Basile Boli's close call with the English Premier League in 1994 resurfaces as The Independent recalls the Marseille legend's near move to Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur.
Boli had planned to make his mark in the newly formed Premier League as Marseille had been relegated in the summer of 1994 due to a match-fixing scandal, leading many key players to seek new clubs.
With a preference for Arsenal, who were not only participating in European competitions but had also recently clinched a cup title, Boli found the offer from Arsenal falling short compared to Tottenham Hotspur's bid of £2.3 million.
In a last-minute twist, Marseille accepted Rangers' offer of £2.7 million, which prompted Boli to head to the Scottish football scene.
Sources close to the situation revealed that Boli was on the verge of becoming the first French player for either Arsenal or Tottenham, but the transfer did not come to fruition.
Arsenal welcomed their first French player, Remi Garde, in 1996, which marked the beginning of the French era at the club under the tenure of Arsene Wenger and the arrival of Patrick Vieira.
For Tottenham, they saw the arrival of David Ginola in 1997, who also became a legendary figure for the club.
About Basile Boli
Although his professional career was cut short, born on January 2, 1967, Basile Boli was undoubtedly a defensive legend in French football who helped Marseille conquer Europe.
Recognized for his strength, speed, and aggression, Boli was a prominent figure for the French national team and Marseille during the 1990s.Making his debut for Auxerre at the age of 16 in 1983, Boli spent 7 legendary years with the club, making 254 appearances and scoring 4 goals. He then joined Marseille, where he made 167 appearances as a defensive player, scoring 26 goals, including the winning goal in the UEFA Champions League final.Towards the end of his career, Boli had stints with Rangers, Monaco, and Urawa Red Diamonds before retiring at the age of 30 in 1997. He is currently actively involved in youth development and serves as a club ambassador for Marseille.During his career, Boli also represented the French national team 50 times and participated in the 1992 UEFA European Championship.
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