Arsenal Football Club, profile
Arsenal Football Club are generally viewed as the third most successful football club in England after Liverpool (click link) and Manchester United (click link). It is perceived as being the “biggest” football club in London, the capital and biggest city in England, due to the belief that it has the most fans of any London football club inside London itself. However it is worth bearing in mind that many in London also support Manchester United and Liverpool and may not have any specific “loyalty” to a London-based club but more of an attachment to a club which they watch on television and whose players and style they admire. In terms of London-based clubs, Tottenham, West Ham and Chelsea also have a very big following in the capital and Chelsea even till now have more followers on certain social media platforms than Arsenal do. This is heavily in part due to Chelsea’s success in the past few decades. However in London itself Arsenal are definitely viewed as the “bigger club” by Londoners. In this article we will be looking at the club including its origins, history, performance, managers, trophies and so forth.
Arsenal Football Club, today one of the most iconic names in world football, began their journey in the unlikeliest of circumstances—among a group of workers in South East London in the late 19th century. From its roots as a team formed by munitions workers to its rise as a footballing powerhouse, the early history of Arsenal is a fascinating story of ambition, community, and early sporting passion.
The Origins of the club.
The birth of Arsenal Football Club can be traced back to December 1886. A group of workers at the Royal Arsenal armament factory in Woolwich, South East London, came together to form a football team for recreational purposes. These men, many of whom had a passion for the game, were employed in the manufacture of armaments and explosives—a tough and dangerous job.
Among the key figures in the formation of the club were David Danskin, Jack Humble, and Elijah Watkins. Danskin, a Scot who had experience playing football in his homeland, played a particularly central role and is often recognized as one of the club’s founders. The newly formed side was initially named Dial Square, in reference to a workshop inside the Royal Arsenal complex.
This informal football club was created with the aim of arranging friendly matches and competing against other local sides. Within a very short time, the players decided to adopt a more structured approach, and by the end of the year, the club had changed its name to Royal Arsenal—reflecting both its place of origin and the pride of the local workers.
The Name “Arsenal”
Initially known as Dial Square, then Royal Arsenal, and then Woolwich Arsenal, the club eventually dropped the geographical prefix after the move to Highbury. From 1914 onward, the club was officially known simply as Arsenal Football Club—a name that reflected its ambition to be a national institution rather than a local team.
Interestingly, this name change, along with the club’s relocation, played a role in Arsenal’s controversial election to the First Division in 1919. Despite finishing fifth in the Second Division before World War I, Arsenal was promoted after the league expanded, replacing Tottenham in the top flight. The circumstances remain contentious among Spurs fans to this day.
The First Match: December 11, 1886
Arsenal’s first recorded match took place on December 11, 1886, just days after the club’s formation. The opponents were Eastern Wanderers, and the match was played on a field in the Isle of Dogs. Although rudimentary by today’s standards, the occasion marked the beginning of one of the greatest sporting institutions in England.
The result? A resounding 6–0 victory for Dial Square.
The match wasn’t played in a stadium or even on a formal pitch—it was a hastily arranged affair played on public ground. However, the scoreline reflected the promise and determination of the newly formed team. This game is often viewed as the symbolic beginning of Arsenal Football Club.
Early Grounds and Stadiums
Plumstead and the Manor Ground
In its early years, Royal Arsenal played at a number of different venues in the Woolwich and Plumstead areas. These included Plumstead Common, Sportsman Ground, and Invicta Ground, before finally settling at the Manor Ground in Plumstead in 1893.
The Manor Ground was primitive compared to today’s standards. Facilities were minimal, and attendance figures were modest. However, the venue served the club faithfully during its early transition from an amateur to a professional outfit.
Becoming Woolwich Arsenal and Turning Professional
In 1891, Royal Arsenal became the first southern club to turn professional, a bold and controversial move at the time. This professional status required a change in structure, and in 1893, the club was incorporated as a limited company under the name Woolwich Arsenal Football Club, and they were elected into the Football League Second Division.
Woolwich Arsenal played their league matches at the Manor Ground, and in 1904, they achieved promotion to the First Division. However, the club soon began to suffer from low attendances due to its remote location in the industrial South East London area, far from the footballing hotbeds of North and Central London.
Early Kits: Red with a Scottish Influence
Arsenal’s famous red shirt has a charming origin story. The club adopted dark red/maroon jerseys, which were reportedly donated by Nottingham Forest. Several of Arsenal’s early players, including Fred Beardsley and Morris Bates, had connections to Forest and used their influence to acquire a set of kits for the fledgling side.
The original shirts were simple: dark red with no badge or crest, paired with white shorts and dark socks. This became the foundation of Arsenal’s visual identity, and over time, the club became synonymous with red shirts and white shorts.
In the 1930s, legendary manager Herbert Chapman made a now-iconic alteration: he introduced white sleeves to the red shirt, creating the famous Arsenal kit design that remains in use today (albeit with modern variations). The red shirt with white sleeves and white shorts has become one of the most recognizable kits in world football.
The Move to Highbury (1913)
Financial difficulties, poor crowds, and the isolated location of Plumstead eventually forced the club to consider relocation. Under the guidance of businessman Henry Norris, who had become involved with the club’s administration, Woolwich Arsenal made the monumental decision to move north of the River Thames to Highbury in North London in 1913.
This move was transformative. It brought Arsenal into a more accessible and affluent area, which helped grow the fanbase and improve financial prospects. The move also positioned Arsenal in close proximity to Tottenham Hotspur, sparking one of English football’s most enduring and heated rivalries. What is interesting is that ironically though Spurs fans like to tease Arsenal fans as being outsiders and mock them as ‘Woolwich’ and not ‘local’ to North London, at the the time of the move Tottenham Hotspurs were not in North London as their location was not considered London back then but Middlesex.
The first match at Highbury took place on September 6, 1913, against Leicester Fosse (now Leicester City). Arsenal won 2–1 in front of an enthusiastic crowd. The club was still in the Second Division at the time but had laid the foundation for future growth.
Below is a history of Arsenal through the decades.
- Arsenal in the 1890s
The 1890s were a transformative decade for Arsenal, marked by significant structural and competitive developments that laid the foundation for the club’s long-term future in English football. Having been founded in 1886 as Dial Square and quickly rebranded as Royal Arsenal, the club adopted the name Woolwich Arsenal in 1891, when it became the first club from the south of England to turn professional—a bold move at a time when professionalism was still controversial in the footballing world. This step forced Royal Arsenal to leave the amateur-focused London Football Association, prompting the club to compete in national leagues. In 1893, Woolwich Arsenal was elected to the Football League Second Division, becoming the first southern team to do so, and they played their home games at the Manor Ground in Plumstead, a modest venue with limited facilities. The club’s performance throughout the decade was modest, often finishing in the lower half of the Second Division standings, but its establishment in league football was a major milestone. Financial struggles began to surface due to poor attendances and the relatively remote location of Plumstead, which limited fan engagement. Nonetheless, the 1890s were a decade of institutional consolidation, and although the club lacked managerial legends or on-pitch glory during this period, its progression from a workers’ team to a professional football club in the Football League marked a critical phase in its evolution.
- Arsenal in the 1900s
The 1900s saw Arsenal grow from a Second Division team into a First Division competitor, although the journey was fraught with financial and sporting challenges. At the beginning of the decade, Woolwich Arsenal continued to compete in the Second Division, but in 1904, they achieved their first major sporting milestone by earning promotion to the First Division. This promotion made them the first London club to play in England’s top football tier, a significant achievement that helped raise the club’s profile. Home matches continued to be played at the Manor Ground, but its distant location in South East London meant that Arsenal struggled to attract large crowds, especially compared to clubs based in more centrally located parts of the capital. The club’s ownership structure remained relatively local, though its finances became increasingly precarious due to the costs of maintaining a professional squad and the limitations of gate revenue. The club changed its name officially to “The Arsenal” during this period, a move that foreshadowed a broader ambition. Despite their promotion, Arsenal never truly threatened the title contenders in the First Division during this decade and largely floated around mid- to lower-table positions. The on-field struggles and financial instability began to take their toll, culminating in the club teetering on the brink of bankruptcy by the end of the decade. The 1900s ultimately concluded with uncertainty, and the club’s very existence would soon hinge on drastic change.
- Arsenal in the 1910s
The 1910s were a tumultuous yet pivotal decade for Arsenal, characterized by financial crisis, controversial decisions, and a change that would define the club’s future forever. At the beginning of the decade, the club was in severe financial distress. Attendances at the Manor Ground remained disappointing, and in 1910, Woolwich Arsenal entered voluntary liquidation. The club was saved by Sir Henry Norris, a wealthy businessman and chairman of Fulham, who stepped in to take control. Norris quickly recognized that the club’s South London location was holding it back and began laying plans for a relocation. In 1913, following relegation to the Second Division, Norris moved Arsenal to Highbury in North London, a bold and controversial move that transformed the club’s fortunes. Highbury was situated in a much more accessible and populous area, allowing Arsenal to attract significantly larger crowds. That same year, the club dropped the “Woolwich” from its name and became known simply as Arsenal Football Club. While the move to Highbury invigorated the club commercially, the outbreak of World War I in 1914 brought competitive football to a halt. In 1919, after the war ended, the Football League expanded the First Division from 20 to 22 teams. Despite finishing 6th in the Second Division before the war, Arsenal was controversially elected to the First Division—allegedly due to Norris’s influence and political maneuvering—replacing rivals Tottenham Hotspur. This moment sparked one of English football’s fiercest rivalries and marked Arsenal’s permanent place in the top flight. The 1910s, therefore, were less about on-pitch success and more about off-pitch decisions that reshaped the trajectory of the club.
- Arsenal in the 1920s
The 1920s were a decade of rebuilding and foundation-laying for Arsenal, a period where the club transitioned from a lower-tier First Division team into one with the ambition and infrastructure to become a football powerhouse. Following their controversial promotion in 1919, Arsenal spent the early 1920s languishing in the lower half of the First Division table, avoiding relegation but not challenging for honors. However, significant change was afoot behind the scenes. The visionary Sir Henry Norris remained at the helm as chairman and was instrumental in reshaping Arsenal’s long-term vision. In 1925, one of the most important managerial appointments in football history was made: Herbert Chapman, fresh from his success at Huddersfield Town, was brought in as Arsenal manager. Chapman immediately set about transforming the club’s approach to the game, introducing tactical innovations such as the WM formation and instilling a culture of professionalism, discipline, and preparation that would pay dividends in the following decade. The club also benefited from the development of Highbury, which was being modernized into one of the premier football grounds in the country. While the club didn’t win any silverware in the 1920s, the foundations laid in this period were crucial. Chapman’s recruitment of talented players and overhaul of training methods began to raise standards, and by the end of the decade, Arsenal was clearly a club on the rise. The 1920s thus represented a formative period, during which Arsenal evolved from a mid-table side into one poised for dominance, thanks in no small part to visionary leadership and a commitment to modernity.
Herbert Chapman
- Arsenal in the 1930s
The 1930s were a golden era for Arsenal Football Club, during which the team firmly established itself as a dominant force in English football and as the pre-eminent club of the decade. This period was driven by the revolutionary influence of Herbert Chapman, who had taken charge in 1925 and by the early ’30s had transformed Arsenal into a model of modern professionalism. Under his leadership, Arsenal won their first major trophy, the FA Cup in 1930, defeating Huddersfield Town at Wembley. This was followed by three league titles in 1931, 1933, and 1934, with the club becoming renowned for its tactical innovations—including the WM formation and offside trap—as well as its physical preparation and scouting systems. The club’s iconic home ground, Highbury, underwent significant development, with the East and West Stands rebuilt in a grand Art Deco style, symbolizing the club’s upward trajectory and aligning with Chapman’s ambition to make Arsenal a cultural institution as well as a football club. After Chapman’s untimely death in 1934, the team continued its success under Joe Shaw and later George Allison, winning two more league titles in 1935 and 1938, and the FA Charity Shield in 1931 and 1933. Key players in this era included Alex James, a graceful playmaker; Cliff Bastin, a prolific winger; Ted Drake, a powerful centre-forward; and Eddie Hapgood, the club’s long-serving captain and full-back. Arsenal’s consistent success during this decade not only earned them a huge fan base but also transformed the club into a national institution, with their dominance so pronounced that the BBC began broadcasting Arsenal matches live on the radio—unheard of at the time. The 1930s set a benchmark for excellence that the club would aim to replicate in future generations.
- Arsenal in the 1940s
The 1940s were a disrupted and challenging decade for Arsenal, with World War II dominating the early years and profoundly affecting football in Britain. Competitive league football was suspended in 1939, just as Arsenal appeared poised to continue their 1930s dominance. During the war years, Arsenal participated in regional wartime leagues and matches, with many of their players enlisted in military service. Highbury itself was damaged by bombing raids and used as an air raid precaution center, and the club temporarily played some matches at White Hart Lane, the home of rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Despite the upheaval, Arsenal remained active, fielding guest players and maintaining the club’s identity throughout the war. After the war ended in 1945, normal league football resumed in the 1946–47 season. Arsenal appointed Tom Whittaker—a former player and long-time trainer—as manager in 1947, and he led the team to First Division glory in 1947–48, restoring some of the pre-war prestige. The squad featured standout names such as Ronnie Rooke, a prolific goal-scorer, and Reg Lewis, who would later shine in the following decade. Although success was more limited than in the 1930s, the club remained a major force, laying the groundwork for further rebuilding in the post-war years. Ownership remained in the hands of influential figures such as Sir Bracewell Smith, and while resources were constrained, Arsenal’s legacy and large support base helped them remain competitive despite the many challenges of the era.
- Arsenal in the 1950s
The 1950s were a mixed bag for Arsenal, beginning with promise and ending in a period of decline and rebuilding. The decade opened brightly under manager Tom Whittaker, who led the club to FA Cup glory in 1950, defeating Liverpool 2–0 at Wembley thanks to a brace from Reg Lewis. That same team featured key figures such as Joe Mercer, a commanding midfielder and inspirational captain, and Dennis Compton, a dual-sport star who also played cricket for England. Arsenal’s league form remained strong in the early part of the decade, culminating in the First Division title in 1952–53, a dramatic triumph where the Gunners pipped Preston North End to the title on goal average. However, the latter half of the decade saw a noticeable decline. Whittaker passed away in 1956, and Arsenal’s managerial situation became unstable, with Jack Crayston and later George Swindin struggling to maintain the club’s high standards. This period lacked the tactical innovation or clear recruitment strategy of earlier decades, and although Highbury remained a beloved and atmospheric venue, the club struggled to attract top-level talent. Arsenal did not win another major trophy for the rest of the decade, as rival clubs such as Manchester United and Wolverhampton Wanderers emerged as dominant forces. Nonetheless, the 1950s remained a crucial transitional period, during which the club retained its strong identity and support base, despite a growing sense that a fresh direction was needed.
- Arsenal in the 1960s
The 1960s were largely a frustrating and transitional decade for Arsenal, marked by managerial instability, near-misses, and a lack of silverware. Under George Swindin and later Billy Wright, the club struggled to keep pace with the tactical advancements and rising competitiveness of English football. Despite having talented players such as Joe Baker, George Eastham, and Frank McLintock, Arsenal frequently found themselves mired in mid-table finishes and unable to make an impression in domestic cup competitions. A key turning point came in 1966, when Bertie Mee, a former physiotherapist, was surprisingly appointed manager. Mee brought with him a disciplinarian approach and, crucially, worked closely with coach Don Howe to create a structured, hard-working team. The stadium at Highbury remained largely unchanged during this time, still steeped in tradition but beginning to show signs of being outdated in comparison to newer venues. Ownership continued to be conservative in investment, which contributed to a slower rebuild. The decade ended with signs of promise: Arsenal reached back-to-back League Cup finals in 1968 and 1969, though they lost both. These setbacks, however, galvanized a young team that was beginning to gel. By the end of the 1960s, the core of the side that would achieve glory in the early 1970s was in place, including players like Pat Rice, Charlie George, and Ray Kennedy. Though the 1960s were not fruitful in terms of trophies, they were essential in laying the groundwork for the club’s next major successes.
- Arsenal in the 1970s
The 1970s were a dramatic decade for Arsenal, beginning with European success and domestic glory, but ending with decline and internal instability. The turning point came in 1970, when Arsenal won their first European trophy—the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup—with a memorable aggregate victory over Anderlecht. This triumph, under manager Bertie Mee, boosted confidence and was soon followed by one of the club’s greatest achievements: the historic Double-winning season of 1970–71, in which Arsenal clinched both the First Division title and the FA Cup, defeating Liverpool in extra time at Wembley. Key players in this golden moment included Frank McLintock, the captain and defensive stalwart; Charlie George, the flamboyant local hero; Ray Kennedy, a powerful forward; and George Graham, an industrious midfielder. However, sustaining that success proved difficult. Star players departed or declined, and Mee’s management style began to clash with the evolving culture of the team. The latter half of the decade saw Arsenal reach three consecutive FA Cup finals—in 1978, 1979, and 1980—winning only the 1979 edition in a thrilling 3–2 win over Manchester United, with Alan Sunderland scoring a last-minute winner. Under managers Terry Neill and Don Howe, Arsenal remained competitive but were inconsistent in the league and failed to challenge for titles. Highbury, still the club’s home, remained a traditional venue with deep cultural ties to the supporters, but questions about modernization were beginning to surface. The 1970s ended with Arsenal losing both the FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup finals in 1980, a cruel blow that highlighted their inability to reclaim the dominance of the early part of the decade. Nonetheless, the 1970s reinforced Arsenal’s status as a club capable of challenging on multiple fronts, even amid growing competition domestically and abroad.
6. Arsenal in the 1980s and up to Wenger.
. The 1980s began in uncertain fashion, but by the time Wenger arrived in North London, the foundations of a great team were in place. This transitional period would prove crucial in setting the stage for one of the most revolutionary eras in English football.
The early 1980s were a time of relative underachievement for Arsenal. Having come close to glory in the late 1970s under manager Terry Neill—most notably reaching three consecutive FA Cup finals from 1978 to 1980—the club failed to build on that momentum. Arsenal lost the 1980 FA Cup final to West Ham United, and just days later were defeated by Valencia on penalties in the European Cup Winners’ Cup final. The dual disappointment signalled the beginning of a downturn in fortunes.
The club’s league form declined, with Arsenal finishing 12th in the First Division in 1980–81 and struggling to impose themselves in subsequent seasons. Star striker Frank Stapleton left for Manchester United in 1981, adding to the instability. Although young talents such as Tony Woodcock and Raphael Meade showed flashes of brilliance, the squad lacked the consistency and quality to challenge for major honours. Neill was eventually dismissed in December 1983 following a poor start to the season.
The Don Howe Era: Stability without Success
Don Howe, a respected coach and former Arsenal player, was appointed as manager after Neill’s departure. While Howe brought tactical discipline and began blooding young players such as Tony Adams and David Rocastle, the results on the pitch were mixed. Arsenal were well-drilled defensively but lacked cutting edge in attack. During his tenure, the club hovered around mid-table in the league and did not mount any serious cup challenges.
Howe’s work in nurturing young talent, however, would bear fruit in later years. He helped establish a youth pipeline that saw promising players graduate to the first team, with Adams eventually becoming captain and one of the greatest defenders in the club’s history. Despite this, pressure mounted, and in 1986, Howe resigned amid uncertainty surrounding his future.
George Graham’s Arrival: Discipline and Silverware
Arsenal turned to George Graham, a former player from the club’s 1971 double-winning side, in May 1986. Graham brought a strict, no-nonsense approach that quickly transformed the team’s fortunes. Known for his emphasis on organisation, fitness, and defensive structure, Graham instilled a winning mentality that had been absent for years.
In his first full season in charge, Graham led Arsenal to their first major trophy since 1979: the 1987 League Cup, defeating Liverpool 2–1 in the final at Wembley. It was a clear indication that Arsenal were on the rise once again. The emergence of young stars such as Michael Thomas, David Rocastle, Paul Merson, and Nigel Winterburn complemented the older guard, and the blend of youth and experience proved to be potent.
The 1988–89 Title: An Iconic Moment in Football History
The defining moment of the decade—and indeed one of the most dramatic in English football history—came on 26 May 1989. Arsenal needed to beat Liverpool by two goals at Anfield on the final day of the season to win the First Division title. Against the odds, a late goal by Michael Thomas secured a 2–0 victory, snatching the title from Liverpool in the final moments. The result stunned the footballing world and etched that Arsenal team into football folklore. The back four of Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Steve Bould, and Nigel Winterburn became iconic, while Graham’s tactics and discipline were hailed as genius.
1990s: From Champions to Crisis
Arsenal began the 1990s on a high, again winning the First Division title in the 1990–91 season. The campaign was characterised by a miserly defence, with the team losing just one match all season. Key players such as Alan Smith, Paul Merson, and Anders Limpar provided flair and goals, while the defence remained as resolute as ever.
In 1993, Arsenal made history by becoming the first English club to win both the FA Cup and League Cup in the same season, defeating Sheffield Wednesday in both finals. The following year, the Gunners added the European Cup Winners’ Cup to their trophy haul with a famous 1–0 victory over Parma in Copenhagen, courtesy of a goal by Alan Smith.
However, this period of success was marred by growing discontent with Graham’s increasingly negative style of play, often dubbed “boring, boring Arsenal” by critics. The team’s defensive solidity came at the expense of attacking flair, and fans began to grow weary of the pragmatic approach. In 1995, Graham’s reign came to an unceremonious end when he was dismissed after being found guilty of accepting illegal payments from an agent—an episode that tarnished his legacy despite his managerial achievements.
Short-Term Appointments: Searching for Direction
In the wake of Graham’s dismissal, Arsenal appointed Stewart Houston as caretaker manager. Houston steered the club to the final of the 1995 Cup Winners’ Cup, where they were heartbreakingly defeated by Real Zaragoza, with Nayim scoring from near the halfway line in the dying moments of extra time. Despite a respectable showing, Houston was never considered a long-term solution.
Bruce Rioch was appointed manager in 1995 and oversaw the signing of Dutch forward Dennis Bergkamp from Inter Milan—a move that would have enormous ramifications for the club’s future. Bergkamp brought vision, technique, and intelligence to the team, quickly becoming a fan favourite. However, Rioch’s tenure was brief; he reportedly fell out with the club’s hierarchy over transfer policies and was dismissed in August 1996.
The Stage is Set: The Precursor to Wenger
By the time of Rioch’s departure, Arsenal had a solid defensive base—anchored by the likes of Adams, Dixon, Bould, and Winterburn—and an attacking spark in Bergkamp. The club had the infrastructure and fan base, but they lacked a visionary manager who could harness these talents and push the team back to the top.
David Dein, the club’s vice-chairman, was instrumental in identifying and recruiting Arsène Wenger, a relatively unknown Frenchman managing in Japan with Nagoya Grampus Eight. The decision raised eyebrows in England, but Dein believed Wenger’s intelligence, philosophy, and innovative approach could revolutionise the club. As the 1996–97 season began under interim management, Wenger was waiting in the wings, poised to change Arsenal forever.
The Wenger Era
The Arrival of Arsène Wenger: A New Philosophy (1996–1998)
In 1996, Arsenal made a bold move by appointing Arsène Wenger, a relatively unknown French manager, as their head coach. Wenger was chosen for his innovative approach to football, emphasizing nutrition, discipline, and a fluid playing style. His philosophy was a departure from the traditional English game, focusing on technical skill and strategic play.
He ushered in a cultural and professional revolution that fundamentally changed not only the club but also English football as a whole. Coming from Japan’s Nagoya Grampus Eight and with previous experience in France, Wenger brought with him a continental approach shaped by the methods and philosophies of French football. He immediately transformed Arsenal’s outdated routines by implementing dietary reforms that were previously unheard of in English football. Red meat and fried foods were replaced by lean proteins, steamed vegetables, and pasta, while alcohol was severely restricted—an abrupt shift for a squad long accustomed to the pub culture. He introduced supplements, hydration protocols, and banned chocolate and sugary snacks, emphasizing recovery and long-term athletic health. In training, Wenger focused on ball work, technical drills, and positional intelligence rather than the traditionally gruelling fitness-based sessions favoured in England. He emphasized stretching, injury prevention, and consistency in workload, informed by his scientific background and collaboration with fitness experts. Wenger also enforced a new standard of discipline and professionalism, demanding punctuality, respect for the club’s image, and peak physical condition from his players. The influence of French football’s methodical, intelligent, and technical style was immediately apparent; Arsenal quickly became a team known for its fluidity, intelligence, and elegance on the ball. These changes extended beyond the first team, permeating the club’s entire structure, from youth development to backroom operations, ultimately laying the foundation for Arsenal’s dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Building a Legacy: The Early 2000s
The early 2000s saw Arsenal solidify their status as a footballing powerhouse. Wenger’s teams were known for their attacking prowess and technical excellence. The 2001–02 season brought another league and FA Cup double, with players like Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, and Freddie Ljungberg leading the charge.
However, the pinnacle of Wenger’s domestic success came in the 2003–04 season. Arsenal went unbeaten in the Premier League, a feat not achieved since the 19th century, earning them the moniker “The Invincibles.” This team, featuring stalwarts like Patrick Vieira, Sol Campbell, and Ashley Cole, combined resilience with flair, embodying Wenger’s footballing philosophy.
The Move to Emirates Stadium: Ambition Meets Reality
Recognizing the limitations of Highbury, Arsenal’s historic home with a capacity of just over 38,000, the club embarked on a significant project: the construction of the Emirates Stadium. The move, completed in 2006, aimed to increase revenue through higher attendance and modern facilities. The Emirates Stadium, with a capacity exceeding 60,000, represented Arsenal’s ambition to compete financially with Europe’s elite clubs.
However, the financial burden of the new stadium impacted the club’s transfer budget. Wenger had to adopt a more frugal approach, focusing on developing young talent and making strategic signings. This period saw the emergence of players like Cesc Fàbregas, Robin van Persie, and Theo Walcott, who, despite their potential, couldn’t replicate the success of earlier teams.
Challenges and Criticism: The Rise of AFTV
As Arsenal’s trophy drought extended, frustration grew among fans. The emergence of Arsenal Fan TV (AFTV) in 2012 provided a platform for supporters to voice their opinions. While some fans remained loyal to Wenger, others criticized his tactics and the club’s lack of silverware. AFTV became a prominent voice in the fan community, reflecting the divided sentiments regarding Wenger’s leadership.
The Final Years: A Mixed Legacy
Despite the challenges, Wenger managed to secure three FA Cup victories in 2014, 2015, and 2017, becoming the most successful manager in the competition’s history. However, consistent league success eluded Arsenal, and their performances in European competitions were underwhelming. The 2006 UEFA Champions League final loss to Barcelona was the closest Wenger came to European glory.talksport.com
In 2018, after 22 years at the helm, Wenger announced his departure from Arsenal. His tenure left an indelible mark on the club, transforming its playing style, infrastructure, and global stature. While his later years were marred by criticism, Wenger’s contributions to Arsenal and English football are undeniable. One thing he will definitely be remembered for is the ‘Invincibles’ team of 2003-2004 which went a whole season unbeaten.
The Emery period
Unai Emery was appointed Arsenal manager in May 2018 following the departure of Arsène Wenger, who had led the club for 22 years. The context of Emery’s hiring was shaped by the club’s desire for a fresh direction—someone with European pedigree, tactical acumen, and the ability to instil discipline and structure into a team that had become defensively fragile under Wenger. Emery arrived with an impressive résumé, having won three consecutive Europa League titles with Sevilla (2014–2016) and secured multiple domestic honours with Paris Saint-Germain, including a Ligue 1 title and four domestic cups. Fluent in Spanish and French (and working on his English), he was viewed as a modern, methodical coach who meticulously studied opponents and could bring much-needed balance to Arsenal’s attack-heavy but defensively vulnerable setup. His preferred style of play involved structured pressing, ball progression from the back, and positional rotations—though at Arsenal, these ideals often failed to translate smoothly. In his first season (2018–19), Emery led Arsenal to a 22-game unbeaten run in all competitions and guided the team to the UEFA Europa League final, where they were soundly beaten 4–1 by Chelsea. Domestically, Arsenal narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification, finishing fifth in the Premier League, just one point behind fourth-place Tottenham.
Despite moments of promise, Emery’s tenure became increasingly turbulent in his second season. Communication issues—partly due to his limited command of English—hampered his connection with players and the media. His tactical inconsistency and frequent formation changes left the team disjointed, and defensive errors continued to plague results. Fan dissatisfaction grew amid poor performances, notably a 2–2 home draw against Crystal Palace after being 2–0 up, and a humiliating 4–1 defeat in the Europa League final. There were also controversies, including the much-publicised incident involving captain Granit Xhaka, who reacted angrily to jeers from fans and was later stripped of the captaincy by Emery. In total, Emery managed 78 games for Arsenal, winning 43, drawing 15, and losing 20, giving him a win percentage of approximately 55.1%—slightly higher than Wenger’s final years but below his overall career average. Under Emery, Arsenal scored an average of 1.85 goals per game, compared to Wenger’s long-term average of around 1.96. However, Emery’s Arsenal often lacked the attacking flair and coherence of Wenger’s sides while failing to solve the defensive fragility.
Emery was dismissed in November 2019 following a run of seven games without a win—the club’s worst sequence in over two decades. His departure was met with a mix of relief and sympathy; while his tenure did not deliver trophies or the hoped-for progression, he was seen as having inherited a difficult situation: a squad in transition, inconsistent recruitment policies, and the immense challenge of following a legendary predecessor. His legacy at Arsenal is mixed. While he failed to bring silverware or a return to the Champions League, he did hand first-team debuts to several young players, including Bukayo Saka, and exposed the depth of the club’s structural problems that would persist into the next era. However following his time in Arsenal Emery has gone on to do well in other clubs.
Arteta till now
Mikel Arteta’s tenure as Arsenal manager, beginning in December 2019, has been a transformative period for the club, marked by significant tactical evolution, squad restructuring, and fluctuating fortunes. Appointed following Unai Emery’s departure, Arteta was chosen for his intimate knowledge of Arsenal’s culture, having been a former club captain, and his coaching experience under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. His vision aligned with the club’s desire to return to its core values and re-establish a competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.
Squad Overhaul and Tactical Philosophy
Arteta inherited a squad lacking cohesion and defensive solidity. He swiftly implemented a more structured and disciplined approach, focusing on building from the back and maintaining positional integrity. This philosophy necessitated significant personnel changes. Notably, his relationship with then-captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang deteriorated due to disciplinary issues, leading to Aubameyang’s exclusion from the squad and eventual departure in January 2022. Arteta’s decision underscored his commitment to a unified team ethos over individual talent.
In terms of recruitment, Arteta, alongside technical director Edu, invested heavily to mould the squad to his tactical preferences.
Some of Arteta’s Most Expensive Signings (in GBP)
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Declan Rice – £105 million
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Kai Havertz – £65 million
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Ben White – £50 million
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Thomas Partey – £45 million
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Gabriel Jesus – £45 million
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Oleksandr Zinchenko – £32 million
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Martin Ødegaard – £30 million
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Aaron Ramsdale – £30 million
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Jurrien Timber – £34 million
In total Arteta has been given hundreds of millions of pounds to spend over his period as manager.
Seasonal Performance and Statistical Overview
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2019–20: Arteta took over mid-season, leading Arsenal to an 8th-place finish. However, he secured the FA Cup, defeating Chelsea 2–1 in the final, and won the Community Shield, signalling a promising start.
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2020–21: A challenging season saw Arsenal finish 8th again, missing out on European qualification. The team struggled with consistency, reflecting the transitional phase of the squad overhaul.
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2021–22: Improvement was evident as Arsenal finished 5th, narrowly missing Champions League qualification. The emergence of young talents like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe highlighted the club’s developmental progress.
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2022–23: Arsenal mounted a serious title challenge, ultimately finishing 2nd behind Manchester City. The team achieved a club-record 50 points at the halfway stage, demonstrating significant growth.
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2023–24: The Gunners again finished 2nd, recording 91 goals and conceding just 29—their best defensive record in two decades. A goal difference of +62 marked their highest in Premier League history.
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2024–25: Despite high expectations, Arsenal finished 2nd for the third consecutive season. Injuries to key players and a lack of a prolific striker contributed to their shortcomings. The team scored 69 goals, a decline from the previous season, and drew 14 matches, highlighting issues in converting opportunities.
Win Rate and Goals per Game
Arteta’s overall win percentage stands at approximately 59.5%, the highest of any permanent Arsenal manager. Under his guidance, the team’s goals per game have fluctuated, peaking during the 2023–24 season with an average of 2.39 goals per match, before dropping to 1.82 in 2024–25, reflecting the impact of injuries and attacking inefficiencies.Arsenal
Fan Perception and Legacy
Arteta’s tenure has seen varied perceptions among the Arsenal fanbase. Initial optimism following the FA Cup triumph gave way to skepticism during periods of inconsistency. However, the team’s resurgence and competitive performances in recent seasons have restored faith in his long-term vision. While the elusive Premier League title remains a target, Arteta’s emphasis on youth development, tactical discipline, and cultural restoration has laid a solid foundation for sustained success.
Trophies
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FA Cup: 2019–20
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Community Shield: 2020
In summary, Mikel Arteta’s impact on Arsenal has been profound, steering the club through a comprehensive rebuild and re-establishing its identity. While challenges persist, particularly in securing major silverware, the trajectory under his leadership suggests a promising future. However he does have his critics some of whom argue for the club to find someone else due to the amount of time and money he has been given but not winning more trophies than desired by some of the fanbase. It remains to be seen how Arsenal perform in the 2025/2026 season.
So this is a profile of the history of what is widely seen as England’s third biggest football club.
What does the future hold for Arsenal? Let us know in the comments.