Arsenal taps Meta to power digital fan communities
WhatsApp and Facebook have announced a global partnership with Arsenal Football Club designed to bring supporters closer to the club and to each other through digital and in-person experiences.
The collaboration highlights how both platforms are already embedded in the daily routines of Arsenal fans, from private messaging and group chats on WhatsApp to global discussions, Reels and community groups on Facebook. The partnership aims to build on these existing behaviours by creating new ways for supporters to engage with the club across both services.
Focus on fan connection and digital communities
The initiative reflects how Arsenal supporters use WhatsApp group chats for close-knit conversations, match reactions and shared content, while Facebook serves as a broader space for global fan interaction, including match discussions, news updates and coordinated viewing events.
A launch film titled It’s Official is debuting across Arsenal, WhatsApp and Facebook channels, as well as on platforms including YouTube and Instagram. The film captures matchday emotions and ongoing fan conversations that continue beyond games through digital communities.
Vivian Odior, Head of Marketing, Family of Apps: "We know that being an Arsenal supporter doesn't start at kick-off and end at the final whistle. WhatsApp and Facebook are where that year-round passion lives - the transfer speculation, the tactical debates, the shared memories and hopes for next season. Whether in a private WhatsApp group chat or echoed across Facebook's global groups, we're proud to bring Gooners even closer to the club they love."
New digital and real-world activations planned
The partnership will introduce exclusive digital experiences across both platforms, including access to official WhatsApp Channels and Facebook pages dedicated to the club. The collaboration will also offer selected supporters closer access to the team through digital activations and content opportunities.
Additional activities are planned at Emirates Stadium during April, alongside opportunities for fans to participate in match-related experiences through Facebook communities.
Juliet Slot, Chief Commercial Officer at Arsenal Football Club: "Being an Arsenal supporter is about shared moments, connection and a sense of belonging in our community. Our partnership with Meta builds on how our supporters already come together, wherever they are in the world, and will create more ways to feel closer and more connected to our club."
The partnership aligns with the club’s broader commercial strategy as it continues to strengthen global fan engagement and deepen connections across digital platforms.
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