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Arsenal have made a notable change to the players’ tunnel at the Emirates Stadium, removing the pull-out cover in a move driven by manager Mikel Arteta to maximise crowd noise and create a more hostile atmosphere for visiting teams.
The alteration was first noticed during recent pre-season friendlies, with the familiar retractable cover nowhere in sight.
According to reports, Arteta personally requested its removal, believing it dampened the roar from the stands and reduced the psychological impact on opposition players as they emerged onto the pitch. The aim is to transform the tunnel into a funnel of sound, amplifying the passion of the home support.
Sources indicate the change is permanent. A protective screen will remain above the tunnel entrance to ensure player safety and prevent objects from being thrown, with the added bonus of potentially enhancing the acoustics and reverberating fan noise more effectively.
🚨Mikel Arteta had the tunnel cover removed at the Emirates Stadium ahead of the 2025/26 season.
His idea was so that the roar of the crowd will intimidate opponents more, as before the sound got muffled. pic.twitter.com/8JdXzUtE0J
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) August 10, 2025
Arteta’s involvement reflects his well-known attention to detail and willingness to seek marginal gains. The Spaniard has previously introduced initiatives such as a pre-match anthem and the use of loudspeakers during training to simulate hostile away environments.
This latest tweak comes as Arsenal conclude a strong pre-season, highlighted by a 3-0 Emirates Cup win over Athletic Club and prepare for their Premier League opener against Manchester United on Sunday.
The tunnel revamp also fits into Arsenal’s ongoing efforts to make the Emirates a true fortress, building on the “Arsenalisation” project launched in 2009, which has added murals, historical displays, and other fan-focused features.
In a separate stadium enhancement, the club has installed new digital screens around Club Level to provide dynamic advertising and matchday content.
With the new season about to begin, the uncovered tunnel could give Arsenal a psychological edge at home, offering an even more electrifying matchday experience for supporters and an intimidating welcome for opponents.