Roger Hampel
Arsenal Women are set to make a significant move next season, as Emirates Stadium will become their main home ground. This exciting development was announced by Arsenal Media, revealing that the stadium will host 11 of the team’s matches during the 2024/25 season, including eight Barclays Women's Super League (WSL) games and potentially three UEFA Women's Champions League (UWCL) fixtures, contingent on the team qualifying for the group stages.
A Strategic Move to Expand Fan Base
This strategic shift comes after Arsenal Women experienced phenomenal support in the current season, with six WSL matches at Emirates Stadium drawing an impressive average crowd of 52,029. This includes two sell-outs and the setting of three WSL attendance records. Such strong attendance figures have catalyzed the decision to make Emirates Stadium the primary venue for the team, reflecting a growing demand and burgeoning fanbase for women's football.
Sustainable Growth and Club Support
Vinai Venkatesham, Chief Executive Officer of Arsenal, emphasized the club's longstanding commitment to women's football and the remarkable growth in spectator numbers. "Making Emirates Stadium the main home for Arsenal Women is the next step in our journey to give more supporters the opportunity to watch our women's team play," Venkatesham stated. This move is part of Arsenal's broader objective to foster sustainable growth and ensure the long-term viability of the women's game.
Sporting Director, Edu Gaspar, also highlighted the unified vision within the club to win major trophies across both men’s and women’s teams, supporting the move as a step towards fulfilling these ambitions.
Continued Tradition and Fan Engagement
The remaining games for Arsenal Women, including all domestic cup fixtures, will continue to be held at Mangata Pay UK Stadium (Meadow Park, Borehamwood), which has been another home for Arsenal’s youth teams. The club’s decision to split venues underscores its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, providing multiple opportunities for fans to engage with the team.
Gratitude and Anticipation from the Team
Jonas Eidevall, head coach of Arsenal Women, expressed gratitude towards the fans whose support has been pivotal in this transition. "Our supporters have shown up in huge numbers and pushed us forward every step of the way," Eidevall commented, looking forward to the opportunities that playing at Emirates Stadium will bring. With plans for bigger crowds and an enhanced match-day experience, the team's connection with its fans is expected to grow even stronger.
In addition to these changes, Arsenal has announced a new ticket package available for next season’s Emirates WSL matches, catering to the growing fan interest and making games more accessible to a broader audience.
This move not only marks a significant step for Arsenal Women but also represents a milestone in the ongoing development and recognition of women's football, promising a future where the sport continues to thrive and captivate audiences worldwide.
Source: Arsenal FC
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