The History of Arsenal FC Stadium

History

From Highbury's legacy to Emirates Stadium's grandeur, Arsenal's home is a football lover's dream. Opened in 2006 with 60,704 seats, it has witnessed iconic goals, fierce rivalries, and even blockbuster concerts. Want to appreciate its history truly? You'll find all the best stories right here.

Emirates Stadium timeline

1997: Arsenal considers relocating as Highbury's expansion hits its limits.
2000: The club purchases the Ashburton Grove site for a new stadium.
2002: Planning approval for the Emirates Stadium is secured.
2004: Construction officially begins.
2004: Emirates becomes the stadium's title sponsor.
July 22, 2006: The stadium opens with a friendly against Ajax.
2006-07: Emirates hosts its first full Premier League season.
2012: The stadium is a venue for the London Olympics.
2019: Emirates celebrates hosting over 700 Arsenal matches.

Emirates Stadium history explained

Arsenal explores relocation (1997)

Leaving Highbury wasn't easy, but Arsenal needed room to grow. They considered buying Wembley, but the FA shut the idea down. Instead, they chose Ashburton Grove, just 460 meters away, securing more seats, financial stability, and a bright future.

Ashburton Grove acquisition (2000)

Buying a waste disposal site doesn't scream "football revolution," but Arsenal saw potential. £60 million later, Ashburton Grove went from industrial wasteland to world-class stadium, proving that big risks—and a lot of patience—can lead to legendary rewards.

Planning consent secured (2002)

After years of delays, Islington Council finally approved Emirates Stadium. Wenger called it Arsenal's most significant decision since hiring Chapman. Alongside football, the plan included affordable housing and infrastructure upgrades, making it a win for the community.

Construction begins (2004)

Railway lines were in the way, finances were stretched thin, deadlines had slipped—Emirates Stadium's construction had its headaches. But Arsenal refused to hit pause, grinding through every setback until their £390 million dream home finally became a reality.

Emirates sponsorship deal (2004)

Emirates didn't just slap their name on the stadium—they fueled Arsenal's future with a £100 million deal. That cash kept construction rolling and proved Arsenal meant business. Years later, it's still one of football's biggest sponsorship power moves.

Grand opening (2006)

Arsenal's grand entrance into the Emirates era started with Dennis Bergkamp's testimonial against Ajax—a perfect sendoff to Highbury after 93 unforgettable years. Fans marveled at the massive 60,704-seat stadium, now England's third-largest.

First Premier League Season (2006-2007)

Arsenal's new home opened with a bang—every game sold out! Gilberto Silva made history, netting Emirates' first Premier League goal against Villa. Fans embraced the stadium's slick design, big-game feel, and buzzing matchday atmosphere.

London Olympics matches (2012)

Emirates wasn't just for Arsenal in 2012—it hosted Olympic football, including the women's gold medal match. From Premier League battles to global showdowns, it showed off its elite facilities and proved it could host the world's biggest games.

Milestone celebrations (2019)

By 2019, Emirates had fully embraced Arsenal's soul. With 700+ games played, murals lined the walls, statues of legends like Henry and Adams stood tall, and club history covered the stadium—making it feel like Highbury's spirit had truly moved in.

Construction of Arsenal Stadium

Tight squeeze: Arsenal had to fit a massive stadium into a tiny triangular site, wedged between homes and railway lines.
Innovative design: Architects HOK Sport gave it a sleek elliptical shape, while engineers Buro Happold ensured it all worked.
Floating roof magic: The roof rests on just eight steel cores, making it look like it's levitating—football meets futuristic engineering!
Steel overload: They used over 5,000 tonnes, and the roof trusses were so huge they had to be built on-site.
Urban challenges: Strict height limits and tricky logistics—but Arsenal didn't flinch. They finished ahead of schedule, proving their off-pitch game is just as strong.

Arsenal Stadium today

Emirates Stadium today is more than just a football ground—it's Arsenal's state-of-the-art fortress. Expanded hospitality areas, upgraded technology, and revamped fan experiences have made it a world-class venue. The "Arsenalisation" project transformed it into a living tribute to the club's history, with statues, murals, and banners that bring Highbury's spirit to its modern home. From electric Premier League nights to massive concerts, the stadium remains a North London icon—bigger, bolder, and more Arsenal than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arsenal Stadium history

Why do fans call Emirates Stadium "The Carpet"?

Because the pitch is that perfect! With its flawless surface and top-tier maintenance, it's one of the best in football—so smooth, like playing on a luxury carpet.

How does Emirates Stadium honor Arsenal's Highbury legacy?

Through "Arsenalisation"—a project that brought murals, statues, and tributes to club legends, ensuring Highbury's spirit lives on in Arsenal's modern home.

Does Emirates Stadium have a green roof?

Yes! It was one of the first Premier League stadiums to feature a green roof, helping reduce its carbon footprint and boost sustainability.

How long did it take to build Emirates Stadium?

Construction kicked off in February 2004 and wrapped up by July 2006—just two and a half years to create Arsenal's modern football fortress.

What events besides football take place at Emirates Stadium?

From Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen concerts to boxing matches and the 2012 Olympic football games, Emirates Stadium isn't just for football—it's a stage for unforgettable events.

Were any historical artifacts from Highbury moved to Emirates Stadium?

Yes! Iconic pieces like Highbury's famous clock were brought over, keeping Arsenal's rich history alive in their modern home.