Latest news with #ArsenalFootballClub
RTÉ News
3 days ago
- RTÉ News
'A real gentleman' - Irish man killed in London remembered
The family of an 87-year-old Irish man who died after he was attacked while walking home in north London last month have described him as a "real gentleman". John Mackey had been running errands on the afternoon of 6 May when he was set upon near Goodchild Road. He had just been to his local supermarket and kebab shop. The pensioner sustained head injuries and died in hospital two days later. A man was arrested and charged with Mr Mackey's murder and robbery. He is due to appear in court again for a plea hearing on 29 July. Mr Mackey, originally from Callan in Co Kilkenny, had been living in London since the age of 19. "Ultimately, he was just a charming, simple man, a real gentleman," his niece Margaret Kennedy recalled. In her sitting room, alongside her brother Adrian, she sifted through several photos they recently found of their beloved uncle. "We found these pictures and it's uncle John surrounded by women and it really gave us a kick because, in his early life, it really showed what a charmer he was," she said with a smile. Mr Mackey was a devoted Arsenal fan and a proud Irish man. He was one of 11 siblings, four of whom are still alive, and he is also survived by his 22 nieces and nephews. His nephew Adrian Kennedy said John was an "intrinsic" part of the local community in Finsbury Park and well known in Irish circles. Mr Mackey had long become known for his signature fedora hat and 'man about town' persona. "He was a bit of an enigma because even up until recently we were never quite sure whether uncle John was plain old 'Uncle John' or whether he was a millionaire," Adrian joked. Almost six weeks on since his death, the family say they are still in a state of shock over what happened to their uncle. Mr Kennedy said his uncle was in "good form" on the day of the alleged attack. "He spoke to his sister Betty in Australia at 3 o'clock in the afternoon and she said that he was in great form. He said that he was going to go out and get himself a bit of dinner and a few bits at the Co-Op. "He went out, bought himself a few provisions, cornflakes, a Sheppard's pie. He stopped and got himself a sausage and chips on the way home from the kebab shop and 5.22pm in the evening he was attacked literally in sight of his front door," Mr Kennedy said. Ms Kennedy said it is hard to come to terms with what happened because he was just an "old 87-year-old man". "It was utter shock, that it could happen to him," she says. The family say they have been taken aback by the warm words and tributes from all who knew him. They were also sent a card and flowers from Arsenal Football Club. "We were overwhelmed actually, we thought it was so lovely that Arsenal Football Club sent the family some flowers and a lovely card, which was unnecessary, but lovely. It meant a lot to us all actually," she said. John Mackey will be laid to rest in his native Callan, Co Kilkenny, on Thursday 26 June following requiem mass at the Church of the Assumption. His coffin will be adorned with the Arsenal flag and his signature hat will sit above it as his family get their final opportunity to say goodbye to the uncle who leaves behind so many fond memories for them. The family say they would like him to be remembered for the life he lived. "We're all still in shock because uncle John was a constant, he was always just there. We knew if we went to London we would always nip on the tube up to Archway to see him," Ms Kennedy explained. Her brother Adrian said that it's the "way he died" that's hard to come to terms with. "Nothing is forever, we all die, but it's how it happened. It's just left this general air of disbelief, shock, and this incredibly deep sorrow," he said.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jerome Anderson: Arsenal's past transfer decisions explained in depth
Jerome Anderson Lifts Lid on Arsenal, Agent Deals and Transfer Turmoil Super agent's Arsenal journey rooted in loyalty and legacy In a rare, raw and revealing appearance on The A-List Podcast by AFTV, long-time agent Jerome Anderson opened up on his remarkable career that has been intertwined with Arsenal for decades. Sitting down with Robbie Lyle, Anderson reflected on the deals, dilemmas and defining players who shaped not just Arsenal's identity but modern football's agent landscape. 'Growing up being an Arsenal fan from the age of four or five,' Anderson recalled, 'my dad became friendly with many of the Arsenal players in the 60s.' What began as a childhood passion quickly turned into a mission. The image of Alex James 'selling newspapers on the corner' after retirement sparked a career-long desire to protect players: 'I had a thing in my head… I'm going to make sure that players are as well looked after as possible.' Deals that shaped Arsenal's golden era Anderson's influence reads like a who's who of Arsenal legends. 'If it wasn't for this gentleman, we probably wouldn't have seen Ian Wright in an Arsenal shirt,' said Lyle during the introduction. Anderson confirmed, 'I started advising Tony [Adams] when he was 16 or 17… and Ian Wright, one of the great signings of all time in the history of Arsenal Football Club.' His connection with David Rocastle, whom he described as 'like a son,' brought the podcast's most emotional moment. 'I spoke to Rocky every day of his life for 18 years,' Anderson said, visibly moved. Rocastle even called him 'dad,' reflecting the personal bonds agents once had with players. Photo IMAGO Advertisement It was Charlie Nicholas who first introduced Anderson to Rocastle, telling him, 'Listen, this kid's going to be special. I want you to look after him like a dad.' Wenger's loyalty and Emirates impact Asked about Arsène Wenger, Anderson described a manager of immense class: 'He was incredibly loyal to his players and to the board.' While Arsenal transitioned from Highbury to the Emirates, Wenger's ability to keep the club in the Champions League for 20 consecutive years stood out: 'He gave his life to Arsenal Football Club,' Anderson said. Photo Imago Though Wenger never complained publicly about budgets, Anderson confirmed the struggles behind the scenes: 'You can't expect me to keep delivering Champions League football if I can't add players to the squad.' The club's tight finances during that stadium move created a generation of restraint. Agent realities and modern-day football The discussion also peeled back the commercialisation of modern football. Robbie Lyle raised the question of agents pushing players out for bigger fees, but Anderson held firm: 'If the player's not interested, it doesn't matter what I've been offered. Forget it.' Advertisement Anderson also challenged the current recruitment culture. 'When was the first time the manager looked into the player's eyes?' he asked, lamenting the loss of personal connection in deals. He suggested that many modern transfers lack authenticity: 'I look at some of these deals and think, that's not a natural move.' On the rise of sporting directors and long-term contracts, Anderson was sceptical. 'It should always be the manager first and foremost in charge of recruitment. They're going to get the sack anyway.'
Web Release
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
TCL and Arsenal Announce Global Partnership Expansion in Multi-Year Deal
TCL, a leading global consumer electronics brand and the No.2 TV brand worldwide, proudly announces the elevation of its partnership with Arsenal Football Club to a global level, becoming Arsenal's Official Global Consumer Electronics Partner. This milestone marks a new era in the relationship between two iconic brands driven by shared values of innovation, excellence, and progress. Building on a successful regional partnership in the UK, Middle East, and Africa since 2023, TCL and Arsenal are now taking their collaboration global, connecting with fans and consumers in more markets through shared values of innovation, performance, and progress. Sunny Yang, General Manager – TCL Middle East & Africa, stated: 'We are proud to elevate our partnership with Arsenal to a global level, marking a significant milestone for TCL. This expanded alliance reflects our shared ambition to lead through excellence, innovation, and passion. As a brand committed to shaping the future of smart living, we aim to deliver immersive experiences that unite the power of technology with the spirit of sport. Together, we are building a legacy that will inspire greatness around the world.' Delivering High-Impact Moments on and off the Pitch: Since the beginning of the partnership in 2023, TCL and Arsenal have collaborated on a series of high-profile activations that brought fans closer to both the club and the brand: · The 'Go Big with TCL' digital campaign, featuring Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Mo Elneny, introduced TCL's XL TV collection to global audiences. See here. · 'Inspire Greatness', a regional hero film starring Mikel Merino, Declan Rice, and Ben White, showcased TCL and Arsenal's shared commitment to empowering communities through sport and innovation. See here. · Exclusive meet-and-greet experiences in Dubai gave fans and TCL customers direct access to Arsenal players during the club's warm weather training camp. See here. · Arsenal legend Robert Pires visited TCL's booth at IFA Berlin 2023, one of the world's most influential consumer tech shows. · And in Turkey, Invincibles defender Martin Keown headlined TCL's regional product launch, engaging with media, partners, and staff in celebration of the partnership. Looking Ahead: Deeper Storytelling and Expanded Fan Engagement Following the success of the 'Inspire Greatness' activation, supporters can expect a new wave of storytelling through the extended global partnership featuring Arsenal men's first team player and newly appointed TCL ambassador, Bukayo Saka. The expanded partnership also includes Arsenal's UEFA Women's Champions League-winning women's team, reinforcing TCL's commitment to equality and innovation across all areas of the game. In addition, TCL products will be integrated into Arsenal's flagship matchday show 'Live from N5', further engaging the club's global fanbase and bringing smart technology closer to the heart of the matchday experience. This global announcement is a testament to TCL's fast-growing presence across MEA and beyond, as the brand continues to innovate in consumer electronics while strengthening emotional connections with sports fans worldwide. TCL will continue to work with Arsenal to craft powerful stories, create unique fan interactions, and deliver unforgettable experiences across touchpoints on the field, on screen, and at home. For more information, please visit:
Campaign ME
04-06-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
TCL, Arsenal to focus on storytelling, brand experiences in multi-year deal
Global consumer electronics brand TCL has expanded its partnership with Arsenal Football Club to a global level, becoming Arsenal's Official Global Consumer Electronics Partner. The expanded partnership has been activated across several key markets in the Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, with additional regional touchpoints planned as part of the extended rollout. This announcement builds on a successful regional partnership in the UK, Middle East, and Africa since 2023, TCL and Arsenal are now taking their collaboration global, connecting with fans and consumers in more markets through shared values of innovation, performance and progress. In conversation with Campaign Middle East, Majid Khan Niazi, Director of Marketing for TCL Middle East and Africa, said, 'We've taken an integrated approach across channels, combining digital storytelling, influencer collaborations, retail integration, and outdoor visibility. Each market's campaign is adapted to suit local audience behaviours and media preferences, ensuring consistent messaging while maintaining cultural relevance.' Campaigns and long-term engagement Since the beginning of the partnership in 2023, TCL and Arsenal have collaborated on a series of high-profile campaigns aimed at bringing fans closer to both the club and the brand. The Go Big with TCL digital campaign, featured Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Mo Elneny, introduced TCL's XL TV collection to global audiences. Following this, its Inspire Greatness regional hero film starring Mikel Merino, Declan Rice, and Ben White, showcased TCL and Arsenal's shared commitment to empowering communities through sport and innovation. In addition, exclusive meet-and-greet experiences in Dubai gave fans and TCL customers direct access to Arsenal players during the club's warm weather training camp, while in Turkey, Invincibles defender Martin Keown headlined TCL's regional product launch, engaging with media, partners and staff in celebration of the partnership. Niazi said, 'The campaigns are ongoing and will continue to roll out across key markets as we've just extended our partnership with Arsenal. This renewal represents a strategic focus on consistency and long-term engagement, particularly during high-impact sporting moments across the year.' TCL remains committed is to maintaining a sustained presence that aligns with the football calendar, leveraging key matches and events to maximise engagement and brand visibility throughout the duration of the partnership. Speaking about the strategy behind expanding the partnership, Niazi said, 'Our ambition was to go beyond visibility to create a deeper emotional connection with audiences across the Middle East and Africa. This collaboration also enables us to offer exclusive club content, exciting deals on our product range, and unique fan experiences, such as opportunities to watch live matches at Emirates Stadium and meet-and-greets with current players and legends.' TCL and Arsenal brand experiences As part of the expanded global partnership, TCL customers and Arsenal supporters can expect a new wave of storytelling in collaboration with Arsenal men's first team player and newly appointed TCL ambassador, Bukayo Saka. The expanded partnership also includes Arsenal's UEFA Women's Champions League-winning women's team in line with TCL's brand values. Niazi added, 'Football is not just a sport; it's a universal language of passion, pride, and perseverance. Partnering with Arsenal allows us to harness that energy and align it with TCL's core values: performance, innovation, and inspiring greatness. By expanding this partnership, we aimed to position TCL not just as a tech brand but as a cultural force, one that empowers fans, fuels ambition, and delivers world-class experiences both on and off the screen.' In addition, TCL products will be integrated into Arsenal's flagship matchday show 'Live from N5', further engaging the club's global fanbase and bringing smart technology closer to the heart of the match-day experience. TCL has also confirmed that it will continue to work with Arsenal to create unique fan interactions, and deliver unforgettable experiences across touchpoints on the field, on screen and at home. This global announcement is a testament to TCL's fast-growing presence across MEA and beyond, as the brand continues to innovate in consumer electronics while strengthening emotional connections with sports fans worldwide. Responding to how the outcomes of this partnership are being measured, Niazi added, 'We measure success holistically, focusing on how the partnership drives overall brand impact and consumer resonance across the region. This includes tracking shifts in brand perception, relevance among football audiences, and the effectiveness of engagement touchpoints across digital, retail, and influencer activations.' Additionally, TCL is monitoring participation in fan engagement activities, such as competitions and exclusive events, and assessing the reach and impact of its campaigns across various channels to ensure they contribute meaningfully to both long-term brand equity and immediate marketing objectives. Sunny Yang, General Manager – TCL Middle East and Africa, concluded, 'This expanded alliance reflects our shared ambition to lead through excellence, innovation and passion. As a brand committed to shaping the future of smart living, we aim to deliver immersive experiences that unite the power of technology with the spirit of sport. Together, we are building a legacy that will inspire greatness around the world.'
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Straight-talking Slegers lifted Arsenal to glory – now club must back her vision
The levels of content are, quite frankly, off the charts. Content-wise, Arsenal have come to Lisbon, eaten and left no crumbs. Katie McCabe sliding on her belly along the dressing room floor through a pool of champagne. Alex Scott and Jess Glynne in their retro tops. Managing to drop the F-bomb on live teatime television, not once but twice. McCabe recreating the moment she threw a ball at Chloe Kelly's head during a Women's Super League game, only this time with the Champions League trophy. And then, in their more reflective moments, thoughts turn to the past. To where they came from. To the journey, those who came, and those who couldn't make it all the way. Laia Codina wraps herself in the Catalan flag. Leah Williamson and her father share an embrace. Beth Mead thinks about her late mother. Kelly reminisces about her academy days, getting the train from Finsbury Park to Potters Bar with Lotte Wubben-Moy. Because nobody ever gets themselves to a Champions League final. You are delivered, like stones in a river, by the forces and influences that shaped you. Related: Inside Arsenal's Champions League party, including a Jess Glynne concert In retrospect it all makes perfect narrative sense, perhaps even feels preordained. But in truth there is still a certain element of shock to be processed, at how the dominant team in women's football, coming into the final on the back of 18 goals in their four knockout games, were stifled so comprehensively on the biggest stage. Really only a handful of people saw Arsenal's 1-0 win over Barcelona coming, and pretty much all of them were employees of Arsenal Football Club. How did they do it? Partly tactics and partly tone. While Arsenal were aware that Barcelona would dominate possession, a tilted press flooded the central areas with bodies and sought to pin Barcelona to one side of the pitch. You can't ever really stop Barcelona playing but you can slow them down, frustrate them, force them into lower-percentage options: long shots, hero dribbles, crosses from wide. The prolific centre-forward Ewa Pajor was restricted to 24 touches and zero shots on target. The point at which it became clear Arsenal's game plan was beginning to bear fruit came about 20 minutes in, when the great Alexia Putellas – finally losing her patience at the speed of Barcelona's buildup – dropped deep into the heart of defence to receive the ball. With all her passing lanes closed off, she instead attempted a long harmless ball to Clàudia Pina that went straight through to the goalkeeper. Outwitting the greatest team in the history of women's football: not a bad scalp for a coach who looked – as one social media user put it – like she was taking Year 4 PE. But in her sartorial choice of casual club tracksuit, in her simple concise messaging, in her brief and emotionally restrained pre-match team talk, Renée Slegers was sending her players a clear cue. Beating Barcelona isn't some epic biblical quest. It's your job. It's business. It's what we do. And in a profession seemingly overpopulated with chancers and charlatans, thespians and gurus, Slegers stands out amid some of her coaching peers for her impressive lack of flourish, her discretion, her ability to give a straight question a straight answer. Perhaps this explains why a lot of fans and pundits were a little slow to recognise her gifts after she took over from Jonas Eidevall in October. Perhaps it even explains why it took the Arsenal board so long to give her the job on a full-time basis. But within the four walls of that dressing room there have never been any doubts. And so Arsenal's first task this summer is to commit to Slegers' vision, and above all to give her the players she needs. Arsenal showed here that their first 13 or 14 players bear comparison with the very best in Europe. But as their recent WSL defeats have shown, they lack the supreme strength in depth that sustains a genuine title challenge, that allows Slegers rotation options, that can weather a winter injury crisis. It is also a squad that will need rebuilding before long: of the 15 Arsenal players who took to the pitch on Saturday, not one of them was aged under 25. Kim Little is 34; Steph Catley 31; Mead and Caitlin Foord 30; McCabe, Stina Blackstenius and Mariona Caldentey 29. There is a huge amount of potential in the likes of Michelle Agyemang, Rosa Kafaji, Katie Reid and Teyah Goldie. But at some point, you have to take the leap of faith and give them a run of games. Being champions of Europe comes with certain fringe benefits. It makes the club a far more appealing prospect to new signings, turns Arsenal overnight into a destination club for the world's best young players, not just the ones that Chelsea didn't fancy. And of course the content also helps here. As Saturday night turned to Sunday morning the laughter and songs that spilled out into the wilds of social media were a reminder that the best Arsenal teams are fun: fun to watch, fun to be around, fun to play for. But of course the finer details of Arsenal's golden future can wait for now. There is a time for looking forward and there is a time for looking back. And on Monday, at the Emirates Stadium, there will be a time for looking out at the crowds and the smoke: a team and a public and a trophy brought together for the first time. After all, there's no point in climbing a mountain unless you're going to enjoy the view.
