Gunners

One hell of a birthday celebration

One hell of a birthday celebration

Russell Webster

AUG 25, 2025

What a day!

We wrote earlier this week about how the CBS Arena celebrated its 20th birthday on Wednesday and how, in one of those inevitable coincidences in which football specialises, the game to kick off the next decade was against QPR, who we played in the first ever match in the new stadium.

Well, in one of the best ever days in club history, Saturday's celebration was a fantastic double header. The 7-1 win (see the extended highlights below) turned out to be the minor part of the celebration - tea with grandparents before heading out on the town with your mates. That said, I certainly can't remember us being 5-0 up at half time ever, against anyone.

The even more pressing reason for celebration was that the Sky Blues finally own our own home. Only last month, we reported a scare story that City might never own their stadium, would be fined by the EFL every year and might eventually face expulsion from the League if it couldn't secure a long term contract on the ground.

Shortly before kick-off yesterday, Doug King announced Covcityco Ltd (the 100% owner of the football club) had completed the purchase of the Arena from Frasers Group, fronted by ex-Newcastle owner Mike Ashton. So, whether we go through the rest of the season unbeaten, thumping seven goals past everyone or go into a relegation spiral, we will never again be in exile, with Sky Blues faithful traipsing off to Northampton or Brum.

Even hard-headed businessman Doug King waxed lyrical in the official club newsletter:

"While a stadium is only filled on matchdays several times a year, it is far more than bricks and mortar. It is our fortress. It is where our team represents us in battle and it is where our community comes together, fostering connections and creating unforgettable memories both on and off the field."

On a more practical note, it means that we should be able to generate more revenue from events, the shopping centre, exhibition space etc. which hopefully leads to better players and a return to the Prem.

Happy Days!

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