For the first four decades of Arsenal’s existence, the club’s outfield players wore all-red jerseys.
It wasn’t until the appointment of Herbert Chapman in 1925, a legendary manager who inspired innovation in almost every aspect of the club, that Arsenal began playing with white sleeves.
That style was in effect through the next century, but on Sunday afternoon, Arsenal will host Manchester United in the third round of the FA Cup cloaked entirely in white – not a drop of red in sight.
The unique design is part of it ArsenalNo More Red initiative, a joint venture launched with Adidas to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime in London and beyond. The Premier League the side invested in the formation of safe spaces across the capital, offered a link for children to interact with the club and shined a light on the citizens who are already making a difference in this area.
Safe spaces. Role 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 voice of individuals who are making a positive impact in their local community.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 10, 2025
“Knife crime and serious youth violence is incredibly complex,” said Freddie Hudson, Arsenal’s head of community. “We don’t have a solution to solve the problem, but we know that our work with adidas is helping to protect young people and create opportunities for a more positive future.”
While he was manager of Arsenal Mikel Arteta warned that playing in a different jersey “is not something we are used to”, he pointed out that he is behind this initiative. “It’s great because we have so many people who invest so much effort, invest their lives to try to improve the quality of life of so many people, creating safe spaces, a safe environment,” the Spanish boss pointed out.
“When we get the chance to lift it on such a big occasion, we have to do it. Well done to the club, well done to everyone involved because they put so much effort into it and the effect 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 beat Oxford United in 2023 but lost to Nottingham Forest the year before and Liverpool last season.
“You feel a huge sense of pride when you pull on 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 of issues such as youth crime and violence.”
However, England the international and his Arsenal teammates are some of the few individuals who will ever get to enjoy wearing the unique design. As the club revealed ahead of Sunday’s cup tie: “The kit will never be available for purchase and will only be awarded to individuals who make a positive difference in the community.”
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