A Slice of Controversy: Revisiting the ‘Battle of the Buffet’ Between Arsenal and Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson encountered various intriguing moments during his tenure at Old Trafford but perhaps none as bizarre as the day he found himself drenched in pizza. This incident, famously dubbed the “Battle of the Buffet,” unfolded on October 24, 2004 marking a pivotal moment in the intense rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester United. Anticipation was high as Arsenal arrived at Old Trafford aiming to extend their unbeaten streak to 50 games. Some Arsenal players even sported “50 not out” T-shirts under their jerseys. However, United striker Wayne Rooney revealed that Arsenal boasting served as motivation for his team, declaring “Not at our place.”

The match itself was fraught with tension with United emerging victorious with a 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rooney. Yet, the real drama unfolded after the final whistle as players from both sides engaged in heated exchanges in the tunnel, exchanging pushes, shoves and expletives. Amid the chaos, a slice of pizza was hurled from the Arsenal dressing room striking Ferguson squarely in the face. Ashley Cole, then Arsenal left-back vividly recalled the moment describing how the pizza slid off Ferguson face leaving an unforgettable image.

In his biography, Ferguson reflected on the incident admitting uncertainty about the perpetrator, stating “They say it was Cesc Fabregas but I’ve still no idea who the culprit was.”