Arsenal thrashed Spanish giants Atletico Madrid 4-0 at the Emirates on Tuesday night in the UEFA Champions League, with the home crowd creating a thunderous atmosphere throughout a memorable evening.
The club made one notable change to the Emirates Stadium that may have fuelled the energy, especially during the second half, when the Gunners struck four times in a blistering 13-minute spell.
A supporter shared a photo online showing the club’s message to fans, urging them to return to their seats before the restart, as the second half would not be broadcast on the big screens.
The notice read: “We won’t be showing the second half of tonight’s match live on screen. Every supporter has a role to play. Please head to your seat to help create an unforgettable atmosphere.”
Arsenal continue to invent new ways to improve Emirates atmosphere
Tuesday’s initiative is the latest example of Arsenal’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Emirates experience and make the ground a more intimidating venue for visiting teams.
Earlier this season, at Mikel Arteta’s request, Arsenal removed the tunnel cover at the Emirates to amplify crowd noise and immerse away players in the home atmosphere from the moment they walk out.
Previously, the retractable tunnel dampened the crowd’s roar. Without it, the sound now pours straight onto the pitch, creating a fiercer and more charged environment.
The move reflects Arsenal’s pursuit of “marginal gains”, small adjustments that could deliver a competitive edge through psychological and environmental advantage.
Arsenal considering Emirates expansion
Meanwhile, reports suggest Arsenal are exploring plans to expand the Emirates’ current capacity of 60,700 to mark 20 years since their move from Highbury.
Should the project go ahead, the Gunners may temporarily relocate to Wembley Stadium, much like rivals Tottenham Hotspur did during their own redevelopment.
FGG Says
Arsenal’s approach to boosting the Emirates atmosphere feels both clever and calculated. Encouraging fans back to their seats and removing the tunnel cover shows how small details can transform crowd energy into a tangible home advantage.
It is refreshing to see a club blend psychology with fan engagement rather than relying solely on star power. These subtle tweaks will inspire supporters, and also signal that atmosphere, too, can be a tactical weapon.
/https%3A%2F%2Ffootballgroundguide.com%2Fapp%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F10%2FFGG-Forum-CTA.jpeg "Arsenal made surprise Emirates Stadium change during Atletico Madrid clash that stopped fans doing one thing 1")