Arsenal
Arsenal Football Club traces its roots to late 1886, when a group of workers from the Woolwich Arsenal Armament Factory formed a football team named Dial Square, after a workshop within the factory. On December 11, 1886, they played their first match, defeating Eastern Wanderers 6–0. Shortly thereafter, the club adopted the name Royal Arsenal.
Early grounds and professionalism
In its formative years, Royal Arsenal played on various pitches in the Plumstead area, including Plumstead Common, the Sportsman Ground, and the Manor Ground. The club's increasing success led to a move to the Invicta Ground in 1890. By 1891, Arsenal turned professional, a move that shocked football authorities and led to their resignation from the London FA after being boycotted by other clubs. In 1893, upon incorporating as a limited company, the club was renamed Woolwich Arsenal and was elected to the Football League's Second Division.
Relocation to Highbury
Facing financial difficulties and declining attendances in Plumstead, Arsenal moved to Highbury in North London in 1913, under the guidance of chairman Henry Norris. The club dropped "Woolwich" from its name in 1914, becoming simply The Arsenal. In 1919, despite finishing only sixth in the Second Division before World War I, Arsenal was elected to the First Division, a decision that intensified their rivalry with Tottenham Hotspur.
Laying the foundations
The early years at Highbury set the stage for Arsenal's future successes. Under the management of Leslie Knighton, the club achieved moderate success in the immediate post-war years. In 1925, seeking greater achievements, chairman Norris appointed Herbert Chapman as manager, a decision that would profoundly influence the club's history.
