Scattered around the exterior of the Emirates Stadium are six bronze statues, each celebrating a figure whose impact on the club resonates far beyond the pitch. From pioneering managers to goal-scoring heroes and devoted servants, these statues honour former Gunners who have had a huge impact on the club’s history.
Herbert Chapman – The Revolutionary Manager
- Unveiled: 9 December 2011
- Location: Near the Danny Fiszman Bridge, near turnstiles L & K
Herbert Chapman stands at the foundation of Arsenal’s rise as a major force in English football. Managing the club during the 1920s and early 1930s, he introduced ideas that were far ahead of their time. He refined tactical systems, helped popularise the WM formation and placed strong emphasis on preparation and professionalism. Far more involved than your modern-day manager, he influenced kit design, stadium presentation and even the club’s branding.
Under Chapman’s leadership, Arsenal won multiple League titles and established themselves as a dominant presence in the English game. His work laid the groundwork for long-term success. Although he passed away in 1934, his innovations shaped the club’s culture for decades.
The statue shows Chapman standing beneath the historic Arsenal clock, looking forward with purpose. It symbolises a manager who always looked ahead rather than settling for the status quo.
Tony Adams – “Mr Arsenal”
- Unveiled: 9 December 2011
- Location: Outside the North Bank, near turnstile E
Tony Adams represents loyalty in its purest form. Joining Arsenal as a teenager, he spent his entire professional career at the club, registering 669 appearances. As a centre-back, he combined strength, positioning and leadership. His clear talents and leadership qualities meant he was named club captain aged just 22.
Adams led Arsenal to league titles across three different decades, an achievement that highlights both longevity and adaptability (and being honest, good timing!). From the disciplined defensive sides of the late 1980s to the more expansive teams of the late 1990s, he remained a constant presence. His resilience through personal challenges off the pitch also strengthened his bond with supporters.
The statue captures his celebration after scoring in the title-clinching 4-0 win over Everton during the 1997–98 season. Arms stretched high, chest lifted, it freezes a moment of triumph and satisfaction that many Arsenal fans will remember fondly.
Thierry Henry – The Goalscoring Genius
- Unveiled: 9 December 2011
- Location: Southeast corner, by the ‘Spirit of Highbury’ mural, near turnstiles P & N
Thierry Henry’s influence extends beyond statistics, though his numbers are remarkable. As Arsenal’s all-time leading goalscorer, he defined an era of attacking football that blended speed, elegance and ruthless finishing. Signed in 1999, he developed into one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards.
Henry’s goals came in many forms: curling finishes from the edge of the box, chips over advancing goalkeepers and powerful strikes from tight angles. The four-time Premier League Golden Boot winner played a central role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaigns of 2001/02 and 2003/04.
The statue shows him in celebration, one knee on the ground, head tilted upward. This pose is one the Frenchman struck after converting a wonderful solo effort against local rivals Tottenham in 2002, one of his most memorable Arsenal goals.
Dennis Bergkamp – The Artisan Forward
- Unveiled: 22 February 2014
- Location: Outside the Clock End
Dennis Bergkamp brought artistry to English football. When he joined Arsenal from Inter Milan in 1995, he introduced a level of technical control that regularly lit up Highbury. His first touch often seemed effortless and his awareness created chances others could not see.
Bergkamp formed key partnerships that defined Arsenal’s most stylish sides. During the Invincible 2003/04 season, his intelligence linked midfield and attack with precision. Many of his goals are remembered not just for importance but for beauty.
The statue portrays him in motion during a match, balanced and composed, plucking a ball out of the air with his right boot. Rather than capturing a specific celebration, it honours craft and control.
Ken Friar – The Loyal Servant
- Unveiled: 28 February 2014
- Location: Opposite the Arsenal Museum
Not every club legend scores goals or lifts trophies. Ken Friar’s contribution came through decades of dedication behind the scenes. He first joined Arsenal as a messenger boy in 1946, after kicking a ball under the car of the Arsenal manager George Allison, who was so impressed with his enthusiasm he offered Friar a job.
Friar worked his way through administrative roles to become managing director and later honorary life president. He played a significant part in major developments, including stadium transitions and negotiating manager/player contracts. Few individuals can claim such a lifelong relationship with a single club.
The statue presents him as a young boy kicking a ball, a reference to how his journey at Arsenal began and a nod to how long his connection to the club dates back.
Arsène Wenger – The Visionary Manager
- Unveiled: 28 July 2023
- Location: Outside the North Bank
Arsène Wenger transformed Arsenal in modern times. Appointed in 1996, he introduced new training methods, improved dietary standards and promoted a technical, attacking style of play. His approach changed perceptions of what English football could look like.
Across more than two decades and a crazy 1,235 matches, Wenger guided Arsenal to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cups. The Invincible 2003/04 season remains one of the most celebrated achievements in English football history. He also oversaw the move from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium, ensuring stability during a financially challenging period.
The statue shows Wenger lifting the Premier League trophy. At 3.5 metres tall and weighing half a tonne, it reflects stature as much as achievement.
Future Statues: Who Might Join the Lineup?
With six statues already in place, discussion naturally turns to who might be honoured next. One name frequently raised is Ian Wright.
Ian Wright – A Case for Immortalisation
Arriving from Crystal Palace in 1991, Wright quickly became a prolific scorer and an emotional leader. His energy and charisma made him a fan favourite during the 1990s. Before Thierry Henry surpassed him, Wright held the club’s scoring record, a milestone that secured his place in Arsenal history.
Beyond the pitch, Wright remains closely connected to the club through ambassadorial roles and media work. His personality continues to resonate with supporters old and new. Many fans believe his sporting achievements and cultural influence justify recognition in bronze.
Arsenal Women
The continued success of Arsenal Women also strengthens the case for future statues. As one of the most successful teams in English women’s football, their achievements have played a major role in the club’s wider identity. Legends such as Kelly Smith and Kim Little are often mentioned by supporters as the most popular statue candidates. Recognising a figure (or two) from Arsenal Women would reflect the full history of the club, not just the men’s game.