It's rare and interesting to be able to walk around a corner to compare the old stadium with the new, but in my opinion it doesn't show the new stadium in a great light. The facia of Highbury's East Stand in particular is unique and famous. It has an aesthetic beauty that reeks of opulent style and durability, that instils a sense of pride in Gooners, and more than a nod of respect from away supporters, like myself. In contrast the concrete, steel, and glass soulless bowl that is the Emirates feels cheap and tacky; even it's name is sponsored, and could change with the whim of signing a new business deal that fans would have no party to. And this, of course is it's one advantage over Highbury - economics. At closure, Highbury could seat roughly 38,500; the Emirates has a capacity of almost 61,000. Season tickets in the Emirates range from just under £1,000 to just over £2,000 - almost the most expensive in England. So from a business point of view it's a no-brainer to move; especially when you include the restrictions set by the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules. But football is more than mere money - the emotional connect; the romance; the feeling of belonging; the sense of history - all of these are largely left behind when you up sticks. I for one sincerely hope that the Villa never leave our home - it's sacred ground.
What a fascinating insight. Thank you ! I feel the same about Anfield. Moving would be inconceivable. I guess rebuilding Highbury didn’t stack up. It might also have been impractical given the space restrictions.
It's rare and interesting to be able to walk around a corner to compare the old stadium with the new, but in my opinion it doesn't show the new stadium in a great light. The facia of Highbury's East Stand in particular is unique and famous. It has an aesthetic beauty that reeks of opulent style and durability, that instils a sense of pride in Gooners, and more than a nod of respect from away supporters, like myself. In contrast the concrete, steel, and glass soulless bowl that is the Emirates feels cheap and tacky; even it's name is sponsored, and could change with the whim of signing a new business deal that fans would have no party to. And this, of course is it's one advantage over Highbury - economics. At closure, Highbury could seat roughly 38,500; the Emirates has a capacity of almost 61,000. Season tickets in the Emirates range from just under £1,000 to just over £2,000 - almost the most expensive in England. So from a business point of view it's a no-brainer to move; especially when you include the restrictions set by the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules. But football is more than mere money - the emotional connect; the romance; the feeling of belonging; the sense of history - all of these are largely left behind when you up sticks. I for one sincerely hope that the Villa never leave our home - it's sacred ground.
What a fascinating insight. Thank you ! I feel the same about Anfield. Moving would be inconceivable. I guess rebuilding Highbury didn’t stack up. It might also have been impractical given the space restrictions.