AISA continued its 25th anniversary celebrations in style with a truly memorable evening at the Finsbury Park Picture House, just a short stroll from our iconic home in N5 and perfectly positioned between two glorious Arsenal victories. Fresh from the emphatic win over our not-so-noisy neighbours in the season’s first North London Derby, and on the eve of Bayern Munich, and a certain former Tottenham forward, being swept aside by Mikel Arteta’s red-hot side, members gathered for an event that celebrated both our history and our future.
The highlight of the night was a special audience with Per Mertesacker, Arsenal Academy Manager and, of course, a former defensive powerhouse who spent seven distinguished years marshalling our back line. Now seven years into leading the Academy, Per offered an inspiring glimpse into the club’s next generation and the values shaping tomorrow’s Arsenal.
Long-time friend of AISA, Tom Watt, hosted the conversation with trademark warmth, humour and insight. The interview flowed from Per’s playing days to his leadership at the Academy, and the audience responded with the kind of energy and affection only Arsenal supporters can bring. Per didn’t simply appear on stage and depart; he stayed long into the evening, joining members in the bar for the raffle, sharing memories, signing shirts and programmes, and happily posing for selfies. It was an unforgettable chance for supporters to connect with a genuine club figure who continues to embody the Arsenal way.
Before heading off into the winter night, we asked Per what AISA, and the unwavering loyalty of Arsenal fans, means to him, to Mikel and to the players. His response was heartfelt. He spoke about how important it is for the club to recognise the history and passion of its supporter groups, describing them as the heart of Arsenal Football Club.
He said: “These supporters are at the heart of Arsenal Football Club. For me to here and you see the history of supporter clubs, you know what they stand for, and this cannot be forgotten. It’s really important for our football club to honour [our supporters] when we can, so I enjoy those moments here, to hear a bit about them, but then also if they want me I can share the story.
“I can be an advocate for Arsenal, the academy and young players, I think it’s a tight knit family and therefore I’m really, really pleased to be here.
“Everyone understands, within any kind of Arsenal pathway, that the fans play a major part and supporters are the heart of everything we do. The support here tonight and the support that follows Arsenal is absolutely amazing, so everyone has got an understanding of that and we’ll honour that.”
Above all, he emphasised that everyone within the Arsenal pathway understands the vital role the fans play, describing supporters as central to everything the club does and something the players and staff will always honour.
It was a fitting message for AISA at 25: a proud history, a passionate community, and a future we continue to shape together – always Arsenal.
Words: Nick Callow
Pictures: @@j_bella_s