Arsenal rename training base for first time in 24-year history – with ‘London Colney’ no more after multi-million pound sponsorship deal

The Premier League giants moved to their current training facility in October 1999, when Arsene Wenger was still calling the shots in north London. Said venue has now been rebranded, with a multi-million pound sponsorship deal put in place.

Dubai-based real estate developer Sobha Realty have been commercial partners at Emirates Stadium since September 2023, when the secured naming rights to a matchday hospitality suite. The company will now become official training kit sleeve sponsors for Arsenal’s men’s and women’s teams.

Arsenal’s chief commercial officer, Juliet Slot, has told the club’s official website: “Sobha Realty is a dynamic business with big ambitions. We’re excited to build on our partnership and tap into their extensive knowledge in property development. Their unrivalled experience will help us understand and explore the opportunities available to us, ensuring we’re always moving forward with world-class facilities for the future.”

Sporting director Edu added: “This is a very exciting agreement that will help us develop the best possible environment for our men’s and women’s players, coaches and support staff for years to come. Our training centre is a big part of our people’s lives. It’s not just about working hard on the pitches, but also working in our office spaces, learning, relaxing and spending time with teammates, colleagues and their families. We are building a winning team and a winning culture, attention to detail is very important and it’s crucial our people have the right conditions to prepare well and perform at their best.”

Mikel Arteta is hoping that work behind the scenes in 2023-24 will deliver more major silverware for Arsenal, with the Gunners still in the hunt for Premier League title glory while also reaching the last 16 of the Champions League – where they are due to face Porto.