Arsenal Women to play 5 matches at Emirates after record-breaking crowds

Arsenal Women will play an increased number of league fixtures at the Emirates next season after attracting record crowds in the last 12 months.

Jonas Eivedall’s team will play five Women’s Super League matches at the men’s stadium in 2023-2024, up from three matches this season.

The Gunners recently sold out the Emirates for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Wolfsburg, with 60,063 fans watching them narrowly lose in extra-time.

That attendance broke the record for a European fixture in the UK but the club also made history when 47,367 fans watched them beat Tottenham 4-0 in the WSL in September.

There was another big crowd for their game against Manchester United in November, with 40,064 supporters watching on that day.

A total of 240,000 tickets have been purchased to watch the women’s team at the Emirates this season.

‘We’re delighted to confirm that our women’s first team will play five WSL games at Emirates Stadium next season,’ Arsenal’s chief executive Vinai Venkatesham said.

‘We’ve received fantastic support at Emirates Stadium this year, setting a new record attendance in the WSL and achieving a memorable sell-out for our recent UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final against Wolfsburg earlier this month.

‘It’s wonderful to see the support for the team at Emirates Stadium, Meadow Park and on the road week in, week out. This latest announcement ensures that as many supporters as possible can enjoy the matchday experience with us, as we continue to support the sustainable growth of women’s football.’

Eidevall’s side have played a total of eight fixtures at the Emirates this season - which included their three Champions League group games and two knockout home legs.

Should they qualify for the competition again, they will likely play all of their matches at the men’s stadium once again.

The Gunners are currently one place outside the European places but have two games in-hand on Manchester City - who they trail by three points.