Arsenal chief doubles down on Emirates Stadium expansion vision with nod to Highbury “character”

Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke has provided one of the clearest indications yet of the club's long-term vision for the Emirates Stadium, with fresh comments suggesting future redevelopment plans could draw inspiration from Highbury.

With demand for tickets continuing to soar and the season-ticket waiting list reportedly stretching beyond two decades, attention is increasingly turning towards how the Gunners can evolve their stadium while maintaining the identity that supporters cherish.

Emirates Stadium expansion could be inspired by Highbury

Kroenke has revealed to the Daily Mail that plans are currently being developed to renovate and enhance the Emirates Stadium, with several recently appointed board members helping shape the project.

Among those involved is board member Otto Maly, who previously played a significant role in the development and operation of SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, one of the most advanced sports venues in the world.

But while Arsenal are clearly looking towards the future, Kroenke suggested preserving elements of the club's past will also be a key consideration.

“They are putting together a plan right now to renovate the Emirates,” he explained. “My only regret being in my position at Arsenal right now is that I never got to experience Highbury.”

Interviewed Josh Kroenke. He confirmed Emirates expansion – and wants to bring Highbury character back!
He said: ‘My only regret being in my position at Arsenal right now is I never got to experience Highbury.
 
‘There’s some character that I want to make sure we’re preserving…

— Isaan Khan (@IsaanKhan_) May 28, 2026

Kroenke went on to discuss the unique identity of Arsenal's former home and the desire to ensure some of that feeling is reflected in future improvements.

“There's some character that I want to make sure we're preserving and bringing back to the ground as well,” he said. “I had different comments from people over the years about the walls of Highbury, the character of what that building was. The Emirates is obviously a totally different animal.

“I do want Arsenal fans to know this is a very modern facility, but also character. Try to figure out a way to bring and preserve some of the character of old English style football as well.”

The comments come after Kroenke previously confirmed internal discussions had taken place regarding potential stadium expansion, with Arsenal increasingly exploring ways to improve capacity, facilities and matchday experience.

FGG says: This feels like exactly the right approach for Arsenal

One of the few criticisms occasionally levelled at the Emirates over the years has been that, despite its quality, it never quite captured the unique personality that made Highbury so special.

That was always going to be difficult. Highbury wasn't just a stadium, as it was long part of Arsenal's identity.

So hearing Kroenke talk about preserving character rather than simply adding capacity or building more hospitality areas will likely resonate with a lot of supporters.

Modernisation is important, particularly with ticket demand at record levels and rival clubs investing heavily in their stadiums. If Arsenal can combine the technology, comfort and scale of a modern venue with some of the atmosphere, visual identity and charm associated with Highbury, they could end up creating something genuinely special.

For many Arsenal fans, expansion alone would be welcome, but expansion that also acknowledges the club's roots would feel even better.