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Vishal Pradhan

Why Are Arsenal Called The "Gunners"?

Updated: Sep 28

No! Arsenal Football Club is not named after “Arsene Wegner”.  Arsenal Football Club's nickname, "The Gunners," originates from its founding in 1886 by workers at the Royal Arsenal armament factory in Woolwich, southeast London. This factory was a key producer of weapons, including artillery and small arms, and was central to Britain's military efforts during its operation. 


Arsenal is called “Gunners” because it directly connects with the artillery. A direct reference to this heritage reflects the origins of the club's founders and their association with munitions production.


why are Arsenal called the gunners?

What was Arsenal Called in the early years?


Initially, the club was known as Dial Square, after one of the factory's workshops. It was soon renamed Royal Arsenal, and then Woolwich Arsenal as it grew in prominence. The club's early identity was closely tied to the local community of Woolwich, which was significantly influenced by the Royal Arsenal's presence. It also came to be known as “Woolwich Arsenal”



In 1913, Arsenal moved from Woolwich to Highbury in North London. This move was partly due to financial difficulties and the desire to attract a larger fan base. Despite the relocation, Arsenal retained its name and heritage, continuing to be known as "The Gunners." 


The name was eventually shortened to "The Arsenal." This was partly for simplicity and to reflect its broader aspirations beyond the Woolwich area. By 1919, the "The" was dropped, and the club became known simply as "Arsenal


The cannon on the club's badge which had been introduced in the late 19th century, remained a prominent symbol. The design of the badge has undergone several changes over the years, but the cannon has always been a central element, signifying the club's enduring link to its origins


Why does Arsenal have Cannon as its badge?


The cannon is as “iconic” as it gets as it has seen eras of great football players, from Frank McLintock to Dennis Bergkamp, the cannon has been a symbolic icon to Arsenal and its fans. 


The original badge featured three vertical cannons, inspired by the coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Woolwich. This design was a testament to the club's roots in the Royal Arsenal. Over time, the badge evolved to include a single horizontal cannon, which was first introduced in the 1920s. This design was influenced by the crest of the Royal Arsenal Gatehouse. Before 2002 Arsenal had a “west-ward facing cannon”. In 2002, the badge was redesigned to feature a single cannon facing eastward, which remains the current design. According to Atletic the reason why they did this was to “embrace future and move forward”


"The cannon in the Arsenal badge signifies strength, resilience, and a proud connection to our industrial and military roots. It symbolises our origins at the Royal Arsenal munitions factory, reflecting our heritage and the power that has driven our club forward through the years." 


— A Quote signifying the meaning of a canon in the crest by former manager Arsene Wegner


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What does “Gunners” signify Historically?


The nickname "The Gunners" is more than a historical reference; it represents the club's cultural and social identity. Arsenal's move to Highbury and later to the Emirates Stadium did not dilute this identity. Instead, it reinforced the club's connection to its roots and its working-class heritage.


Arsenal fans, known as "Gooners," proudly embrace this identity. The term "Gooner" originated from the "Goon Squad," a hooligan group from the 1970s. Despite its negative origins, the term has been reclaimed by Arsenal supporters and is now a symbol of pride and unity.


There is always confusion in the football community that what is it actually called. "Gunners" or "Gooners"? While many believe the players are called the "Gunners" while the fans are "Gooners". However, both signify the historical relevance of Arsenal with Artillery.


Legacy and Modern Relevance


Arsenal's nickname and iconic cannon badge remain significant in modern football. The club's branding heavily features the cannon, symbolizing strength, resilience, and a storied history. This heritage is celebrated by fans and is a crucial part of Arsenal's identity, both on and off the pitch. The nickname "The Gunners" and the club's visual symbols have helped create a unique and enduring brand that resonates with supporters around the world.



Arsenal's nickname, "The Gunners," is a powerful reminder of the club's origins and its connection to a significant part of London's industrial and military history. It reflects a proud heritage that has been carried forward through the club's evolution, symbolized by the cannon on its badge and the passionate identity of its fans. This deep-rooted identity continues to define Arsenal, making "The Gunners" more than just a nickname but a lasting legacy



How Good has Arsenal been in the Modern times?


Arsenal from the start of the Millennium, has been through thick and thin, loyal North London fans have seen their club lift the “Invincible’s 2004” trophy to “dead Arsenal of 2016” under the same manager Arsne Wegner. Players like Theirry Henry, Patrick Vierra, Sol Campbell, and Robin Van Persie had been coached and excelled under Wegner


Arsenal was able to reach the UCL finals in 2006 but eventually lost it to Barcelona, In 2019 Arsenal reached the UEFA Europa League final but eventually lost it to Eden Hazard’s Chelsea. 


Arsenal, since the arrival of Mikel Arteta, has been doing pretty well, even though the initial days from Arteta had not been good he has managed to turn things around and has built a team that is strong enough to go head-to-head with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. With a new and effective system and players Arteta seems to have been building the old Arsenal back. 


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