Arsenal History
138 years of passion, glory, and innovation.
The Arsenal Eras
From humble beginnings to global giants.
Club Foundation
Arsenal was founded as Dial Square in 1886 by workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. The club went through several name changes before becoming Arsenal, and moved to Highbury in 1913.
Herbert Chapman Era
Herbert Chapman revolutionized Arsenal and English football. He introduced the WM formation, signed legendary players, and led Arsenal to their first major trophies.
Arsène Wenger Era
Arsène Wenger transformed Arsenal into one of Europe's elite clubs. His innovations in training, nutrition, and tactics changed English football forever. The Invincibles season remains his crowning glory.
Emirates Stadium Era
The move to the 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium marked a new chapter for Arsenal. While initially challenging, the move provided the financial foundation for the club's continued growth.
Mikel Arteta Era
Mikel Arteta has restored Arsenal to genuine title contenders. His tactical innovations, youth development, and recruitment have created one of the most exciting squads in Europe.
Timeline
Key moments in Arsenal's history.
Foundation Era
Club Foundation
Arsenal was founded as Dial Square by workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich, south-east London. The club was renamed Royal Arsenal, then Woolwich Arsenal.
Early Years
Move to Highbury
Arsenal moved to Highbury in north London, establishing the club in its spiritual home for the next 93 years.
Chapman Era
Herbert Chapman Appointed
Herbert Chapman was appointed manager, beginning one of the most transformative periods in the club's history.
First FA Cup Triumph
Arsenal won their first major trophy, defeating Huddersfield Town 2-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley.
First League Title
Arsenal won their first League Championship, beginning a run of four titles in five seasons.
Chapman's Legacy
Herbert Chapman passed away, but his legacy of innovation and success continued to shape the club.
Post-War Era
Fifth League Title
Arsenal won their fifth First Division title under Tom Whittaker.
Double Era
The Double
Arsenal completed the league and FA Cup double for the first time, with Bertie Mee as manager and players like Charlie George and Rocky Rocastle.
Late 80s
Anfield Title
Michael Thomas scored a dramatic last-minute goal at Anfield to clinch the league title on the final day of the season.
Wenger Era
Cup Double
Arsenal won both the FA Cup and League Cup, becoming the first club to win both domestic cups in the same season.
Wenger Era
Arsène Wenger Arrives
Arsène Wenger was appointed manager, revolutionizing Arsenal with his tactical innovations and modern approach to training and nutrition.
The Wenger Double
Arsenal won the Premier League and FA Cup double in Wenger's second full season, playing some of the most attractive football in English football history.
Another Double
Arsenal completed another league and FA Cup double, with Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pirès, and Thierry Henry starring.
The Invincibles
Arsenal went the entire 2003-04 Premier League season unbeaten, winning 26 and drawing 12 of 38 matches. One of the greatest achievements in football history.
Champions League Final
Arsenal reached their first Champions League final, narrowly losing 2-1 to Barcelona despite taking an early lead through Sol Campbell.
Ending the Drought
Arsenal ended their nine-year trophy drought by winning the FA Cup, beating Hull City 3-2 in the final. Aaron Ramsey scored the winner in extra time.
Wenger's Farewell
After 22 years, Arsène Wenger departed as Arsenal manager, leaving an indelible mark on the club.
Emirates Era
Move to the Emirates
Arsenal moved from Highbury to the new 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium in Ashburton Grove.
Arteta Era
Arteta Takes Charge
Mikel Arteta was appointed as Arsenal manager, beginning a project to restore the club to its former glory.
Record 14th FA Cup
Arsenal won their record-extending 14th FA Cup, defeating Chelsea 2-1 in the final at Wembley.
Title Challengers
Arsenal emerged as genuine Premier League title challengers, leading the table for much of the season before finishing second.
Continued Growth
Arsenal continued to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level, establishing themselves as permanent contenders.
Trophy Cabinet
A legacy of silverware.
Premier League
Arsenal have won the Premier League three times, including the historic unbeaten season in 2003-04.
First Division
Arsenal have been English top-flight champions 13 times in total, making them one of the most successful clubs in English football history.
FA Cup
Arsenal hold the record for most FA Cup wins with 14 titles, making them the most successful club in the competition's history.
League Cup
Arsenal have won the League Cup twice, with their most recent triumph coming as part of a league and cup double in 1993.
Community Shield
Arsenal have won the Community Shield (formerly Charity Shield) a record 17 times.
European Cup Winners' Cup
Arsenal won the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1994, defeating Parma 1-0 in the final.
UEFA Cup
Arsenal reached the UEFA Cup final in 2000 but were defeated by Galatasaray on penalties.