Where Tradition and Community Come First
Josh Kroenke, Arsenal’s co-chairman, has reassured fans that there are no plans to take competitive Arsenal matches overseas. Instead, the club will remain deeply connected to its roots in Islington, North London.
While international tours and global appeal are important for the club’s growth, Kroenke made it clear that Arsenal’s competitive fixtures will stay at the Emirates Stadium, where the heartbeat of the club lives.
Putting Fans and Community First
Speaking during a forum with the Arsenal Advisory Board and the Gay Gooners supporters group, Kroenke stated:
“We’re happy with the current arrangement in the schedule, both domestically and in Europe.”
He stressed that supporters are at the center of everything Arsenal does. From the highs of matchday energy to community programs off the pitch, the club has been working to strengthen its bond with fans after past challenges.
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The Emirates Stadium, according to Kroenke, has become a fortress, where players feed off the passion of the fans, and the fans in turn drive the team forward.
Why This Promise Matters for Arsenal Fans
1. Protecting the Matchday Experience
Keeping games in Islington ensures that the authentic matchday atmosphere remains untouched. The noise, chants, and energy of the Emirates Stadium cannot be replicated abroad.
2. Supporting the Local Community
Arsenal is more than just a football club—it’s a pillar of the Islington community. Through its “Arsenal in the Community” projects, the club provides real social value, from education programs to local charity support.
3. Building Trust After the Super League
Fans still remember the backlash to the European Super League plans. Kroenke has since emphasized that fans will always be consulted on major decisions. This latest promise to keep competitive fixtures in Islington shows that the club has learned from past mistakes.
Looking Ahead: Staying Local in a Global Game
The Premier League’s global reach is undeniable, and Arsenal’s pre-season tours in the United States and Asia have shown just how popular the club is worldwide. These tours help Arsenal grow internationally, but Kroenke’s message is clear:
- Pre-season matches can go abroad.
- Competitive matches belong in London.
This balance allows Arsenal to grow globally while staying true to its heritage at home.
In Summary
| Pillar | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Local Roots | Arsenal’s heart is in Islington and the Emirates Stadium. |
| Fan Trust | The club rebuilds strong trust with supporters. |
| Balance | Arsenal can tour abroad without losing its identity at home. |
For Arsenal fans, Kroenke’s message is simple and powerful:
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⚽ Arsenal belongs in Islington.
🏟️ Competitive matches will stay at the Emirates.
❤️ The fans remain at the core of the club’s future.
As football continues to grow globally, Arsenal’s promise to protect its traditions ensures that local fans—those who have been the lifeblood of the club—will always remain at the heart of everything.