For the first four decades of Arsenal's existence, the club's outfield players wore all-red shirts.
Arsenal began playing in white sleeves until the appointment of Herbert Chapman in 1925, the legendary manager who inspired innovation in almost every aspect of the club.
This style has been in place throughout the following century, but on Sunday afternoon, Arsenal will host Manchester United in the third round of the FA Cup clad entirely in white—without a speck of red in his eye.
The unique design is part of ArsenalThe No More Red initiative, a joint venture launched alongside adidas to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime in London and beyond. of Premier League the party has invested in the formation of safe spaces throughout the capital, provided a link for children to interact with the club and put the spotlight on the citizens who are already making a difference in this area.
Safe spaces. Models. Connections.
This year, the No More Red initiative focuses on giving real meaning to the shirt, creating a sense of belonging and raising the voices of individuals who are making a positive impact in their local community.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 10, 2025
“Knife crime and serious youth violence are incredibly complex,” said Arsenal head of community, Freddie Hudson. “We don't have a solution to fix the problem, but we know our work with adidas is helping to keep young people safe and creating opportunities for more positive futures.”
While the coach of Arsenal Mikel Arteta warned that playing in a different shirt “isn't something we're used to”, he stressed he was behind the initiative. “It's wonderful because we have so many people who make so much effort, putting their lives to improve the quality of many people's lives, creating safe spaces, safe environments,” noted the Spanish boss.
“When we have an opportunity to raise this to such a big occasion, we have to do it. Well done to the club, well done to everyone who is taking part in this because they put a lot of effort into it and the impact is huge. “
Arsenal have worn an all-white kit for the third round of the FA Cup in each of the previous three seasons. The Gunners were victorious against Oxford United in 2023 but lost to Nottingham Forest the year before and Liverpool last season.
“There's a great pride you feel when you wear the No More Red shirt,” Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said this week. “Having such a special connection with our supporters in our community gives us a real understanding of the people we represent and the role we can play as players in raising awareness about issues such as youth crime and violence.”
However, to England the international and his Arsenal teammates are some of the few individuals who will ever be able to enjoy wearing the unique design. As the club revealed ahead of Sunday's cup tie: “The fan will never be available to buy and will only be awarded to individuals who are making a positive difference in the community.”