Arsenal making the news: special focus on BBC R4 Today programme this morning.
Making new fans: sea of red around the Emirates and surrounding streets and also railway terminals, 1000s headed from E Midlands/North to KGX, signalling support from all over; downside of parade, 16 arrests, fire in a hotel reportedly caused by a flare, damaged tree, tons of litter requiring major clear-up op, especially Highbury Corner. Just stepped my way through it.
Making money: £120m-£130m from Champions League run depending on TV cut; £170m from Premier League; additional commercial strength in bonuses, shirt sales, tours; qualification for £90m 2029 Club World Cup, although it drains players.
Making plans: to extend Mikel Arteta’s contract which currently expires 2027; possibly expanding stadium; strengthen team, as opposed to squad, with 2/3 elite talents (C-F, LW - Rogers?); and move on certain players for squad balance, PSR and game-time for them (Martinelli, Jesus, Norgaard). Wages will inevitably increase, bonuses due, some contract renewals required (Timber and a better deal for key player Rice).
Must consider making Rice captain. Club love Odegaard. Represents club well. But Rice is the real leader, the true force on the field.
Making sure fans continue to feel respected. Arsenal work well with fans (coach meet, tifos) and CEO Richard Garlick is respected by fans. Recent ticket increase a concern. Money generated from increase modest compared to money spent on agents. Arsenal do many things right (community/foundation) - and doing the right thing by fans will simply make the club even stronger.
#AFC