Sol Campbell has reignited his infamous rivalry with Tottenham Hotspur in a bold and unapologetic new TV advert for Google’s Pixel 9.
The former England international, who infamously left Spurs to join their fierce North London rivals Arsenal on a free transfer in 2001, appears to revel in his controversial history with the Lilywhites — much to the delight of Arsenal fans.
The Controversial Move That Shook North London
For Tottenham supporters, Campbell’s decision to swap White Hart Lane for Highbury remains a bitter pill to swallow, even over two decades later. As Spurs’ captain and one of their star players, his move to Arsenal was perceived as the ultimate betrayal. To this day, he is met with boos and jeers whenever his name is mentioned at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
A TV Ad with a Cheeky Twist
In the advert, Campbell appears as a tongue-in-cheek nod to his footballing legacy. Without explicitly mentioning Tottenham, the ad plays on his divisive move to Arsenal and the unwavering support he still receives from Gunners fans. Campbell’s confident demeanor in the advert has been met with cheers from Arsenal supporters on social media, who see it as a playful jab at their North London rivals.
“It’s classic Sol,” one Arsenal fan wrote on Twitter. “Still living rent-free in Spurs’ heads after all these years.”
Spurs Fans React
Unsurprisingly, Tottenham fans were less than impressed. Many took to social media to express their frustration, with some branding the ad “tasteless” and “unnecessary.” Others pointed out that Campbell’s decision to feature in such an advert only serves to reinforce the animosity that has defined his post-Spurs career.
Arsenal Fans Loving the Banter
On the other side of the rivalry, Arsenal fans have been quick to hail the advert as a masterstroke. “Sol Campbell’s legacy as an Arsenal legend is untouchable,” one fan said. “This ad just reminds everyone how much he’s adored by Gooners and despised by Spurs — exactly as it should be.”
Google Pixel 9 Gets the Last Laugh
While the advert has reignited old debates among fans, it’s safe to say Google’s marketing team knew exactly what they were doing. You can watch the video below:
When it comes to big moves, there’s only one man who knows what’s what.
— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) January 14, 2025
Switch like Sol this transfer window and save big on Pixel devices in the Google Store: https://t.co/Gu32cX23Bf pic.twitter.com/EGtb3Zb4cm
A Legacy That Won’t Be Forgotten
Even 24 years after his infamous transfer, Sol Campbell remains a divisive figure in North London football. For Arsenal fans, he’s a hero who helped deliver two Premier League titles and two FA Cups during the club’s golden era under Arsène Wenger. For Spurs supporters, he’s the player who turned his back on them when they needed him most.
One thing is certain: whether you’re Team Arsenal or Team Spurs, Sol Campbell knows how to keep his name in the headlines. And with this latest advert, he’s ensured that the rivalry lives on for another generation.
