125 Years of The Arsenal

For over a decade The Arsenal have been entertaining audiences in England and have produced some of the most successful teams in English football as well as great individual talents. They are a club that I have religiously supported my entire life and this weekend they celebrate their 125^th anniversary. To mark the occasion, three statues of Arsenal legends were unveiled outside the Emirates Stadium by chairman Peter Hill-wood. The three icons being paid tribute to were Herbert Chapman, one of the most influential people in English football and hugely successful as Arsenal manager, Tony Adams, Arsenals most successful captain, and Thierry Henry, the clubs record leading goal scorer and fans favourite. Watching Henry’s emotional speech after receiving his recognition was a great moment for Arsenal to see just how much the club means to people. It is clear that Thierry Henry has fallen in love with the club and whilst holding back the tears declared, “Once a Gooner, always a Gooner”.

Although being a Gooner can at times become extremely difficult when a squad full of dynamism and talent fail to achieve the success their play warrants, they are a team who I love and will always follow. It is often said that true supporter can be found during a club’s turmoil. I am frequently reminded in the press that The Arsenal have not won a trophy for 6 years, yet my passion for my team has not diminished. Since the move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006, The Arsenal’s supporters have grown in volume and are slowly turning this modern piece of architecture into an intimidating force. Although it may not have the same feel that other stadiums such as Anfield or St James’ park possess, the Emirates is starting to feel like home.

As for the trophy drought, manager Arsene Wenger has once again moulded an exciting attacking team mixed with youth and experience that can realistically challenge for trophies other than the League Cup. In the summer transfer window, Wenger was claimed to have acted somewhat uncharacteristically by signing players of an older age range to what he is normally custom. However, he has never sacrificed his football philosophy and continues to believe that beautiful football is the best kind. An experienced signing like Mikel Arteta may bring some authority into the centre of the midfield but he also adds creativity and skill. Even Arsenals most robust midfielder, Alex Song, possesses good technical ability and a few nifty tricks to beat his opponent.

As well as having attacking players with flair in the likes of Gervinho, Wilshere and Van Persie, Wenger’s squad also boast an intimidating defence. It is an area that has often left the London club being able to fulfil their potential, yet with some summer signings, returns from injury and the emergence of a talented goalkeeper Arsenal look a commanding force at the back. In goal Wojciech Szczęsny has established himself as number one and one of the most talented young goalkeepers in Europe. At last Arsenal have found a replacement for Jens Lehman. Furthermore, new signing Per Mertesacker is beginning to form a good understanding with Thomas Vermaelen. Vermaelen has recently returned from a lengthy ankle injury and is the focal point of Arsenals back line.

This weekend marks a great occasion for everyone associated with the club and I am proud to be an Arsenal follower and am excited for what the future holds for my team. As Thierry would say, once a Gooner…