Arsenal have made a series of subtle but clever changes at the Emirates Stadium this season, all aimed at transforming the matchday atmosphere and reconnecting supporters with the team.
According to BBC Sport, there have been concerns about the atmosphere during the club’s home games, but manager Mikel Arteta is actively looking to improve on that.
Now, Arsenal have made changes such as removing the tunnel cover, changing the goal announcement style, putting off screens in the second half, and having light shows before big games.
So far, the results appear to be paying off both on and off the pitch, as the Gunners are top of the Premier League table, and have conceded just three goals all season, while scoring many.
Arsenal have removed Emirates’ tunnel cover
The North London side had a tunnel cover for many years but it has not been the case since the start of the 2025-26 season, and the move was made to improve the atmosphere.
With the tunnel cover gone, the players can now hear the roar and chants of fans before kick-off, adding to the intensity of the occasion.
Fans are now also feeling closer to the action, as they can now high-five players on their way in and out, while also interacting with them as they walk through the tunnel area.
Arteta explained the thinking behind it, saying: “We need to ignite the atmosphere so they can play every single ball with us because it makes such a difference.”
Goal announcement change and light shows
Arsenal’s goal announcements have also been revamped at Arteta’s request, as the announcer now shouts the scorer’s first name, leaving fans to respond with the second, three times in a row.
Stadium broadcaster Roman Kemp revealed during a podcast show that he got this insight from the Spanish manager, describing the conversation as “intense”.
Light shows have become a new feature at major Emirates fixtures, giving supporters an immersive experience.
Before key matches, such as the Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, stewards handed out QR codes for fans to sync their phone lights with the stadium display.
These coordinated light displays turn the Emirates into a spectacle, helping build anticipation and unity before kick-off.
Screens switched off during second half
As reported earlier, Arsenal have stopped showing the second half of matches on concourse screens, with fans now encouraged to return to their seats and create noise inside the stadium where it matters most.
A message shown during the Atletico game confirmed the change, reminding fans that their presence and voice are crucial during live play.
These changes are part of a wider club effort, combining input from multiple departments and fan groups.
FGG Says
Arsenal’s off-pitch transformation mirrors their resurgence under Arteta, as it is detailed, deliberate and emotionally intelligent. The Emirates, once criticised for its sterile atmosphere, is now alive with energy, connection and community spirit.
By focusing on fan involvement, the club has rediscovered what makes home advantage truly powerful.
/https%3A%2F%2Ffootballgroundguide.com%2Fapp%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F10%2FFGG-Forum-CTA.jpeg "Arsenal quietly made four interesting changes to fix Emirates Stadium atmosphere — and it’s clearly working 1")