Arsenal FC launches fashion collection inspired by its Hale End academy

Arsenal FC has launched a 10-piece fashion collection, including a windbreaker jacket, sweatshirt and hoodie, inspired by its Hale End football academy and targeting its young fan base.

It has been created by Arsenal supporting designer, Naomi Brady, who was discovered as part of an extensive scouting process after showing a strong understanding of London streetwear and culture.

Once selected, Brady was paired with Fashion East, a non-profit talent incubator that nurtures and showcases emerging fashion designers, before designing the full collection.

Mirroring Fashion East, Hale End has a reputation for developing and championing new talent. The academy is famous for developing the careers of some of the brightest stars in English football, including current Arsenal first team players Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson.

Brady said: "This opportunity has given me the platform to create a body of work that I’m really proud of. Arsenal is known for giving opportunities to young people and it’s so inspiring to see the club backing their supporters and building on the cultural connection between football and design.

"Arsenal gave complete creative freedom, and I’m so happy with the outcome. It felt incredible to see Bukayo wearing my design."

Saka added: "I love that we’re celebrating Hale End with this amazing new collection, and it’s fantastic to see the club supporting creative Arsenal supporters to bring this to life.

"We have such a strong connection with our supporters, and we hope they love this collection as much as we do."

The collection is another example of football and fashion crossing over, and comes hot off the heels of the Manchester United x Adidas x The Stone Roses collection which launched last week, fusing football, fashion and music.