Over the years, the Emirates Stadium has been the Gunners blueprint subject to the chants of some fans. It is against the calling of it as a library. However, the club is currently undertaking every effort to reverse the negative perception of its stadium. They are coming up with a series of innovative initiatives. A result of the vision of its manager, Mikel Arteta, and the concerted efforts of the club.
Igniting the Atmosphere
One of the main obvious changes this season was the replacement of the cover in the tunnel of the players. This tactical action enables the crowd noise to direct at the players and their enemies. Moreover, it makes the atmosphere more threatening and has a more personal touch as players nowadays high-five the audiences upon their entry. Its goal, according to Arteta, is to create the best atmosphere in the world at the Emirates. The aim is to light a fire so they can play each ball with us.
The Arteta Effect: Chasing Marginal Gains
The power of the manager goes down to minor details. Once a goal is scored, the stadium announcer now calls the first name of the scorer. Moreover, the fans in turn shout the surname back. One of Gunners blueprint that Arteta introduced himself after soliciting opinions of the fans on its effect. The club has also ceased to air the second half on concourse screens, urging fans to be back to their seats on time in the attempt to generate an experience that would have remained memorable, something which has been applauded by the supporters.
A Unified Club Effort
These actions belong to a larger cooperation throughout the club in the improvement of the fan experience. This incorporates scheduled light displays at key games, as well as a formulated Supporter Engagement Plan, which provides emphasis on the long-term and substantial engagement of fans by the club in accordance with the Fan Engagement Standard provided by the Premier League. It is by these joint efforts of architectural adjustments and nudges of behaviour that Arsenal are gradually constructing a fortress of noise and passion, systematically.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
