12. Move to the Emirates – 2006
Many were sad to leave Highbury but the move to the Emirates would ensure Arsenal would remain a force in world football.
Arsenal announced its proposals to move to a new stadium at Ashburton Grove in November 1999. Planning consent was secured three years later and construction began in February 2004.
The imposing North and South Bridges were in place within six months and, in October 2004, the venue was officially named Emirates Stadium.
In 2006 the stadium opened for business.
Its first game was Dennis Bergkamp’s testimonia. Few would argue that the Emirates has not lived up to expectations.
It is acknowledged as one of the finest football stadiums in the world and was sold out for every first-team game in its opening season.
Highbury will always be Arsenal’s spiritual home, but Emirates Stadium is the key to the future.