Stan Kroenke, the owner of Arsenal, is planning a massive £8 billion investment, but it`s directed towards his NFL team, the Los Angeles Rams.
The 77-year-old has announced plans to develop a 52-acre “village” for his American football franchise.
This extensive project, dubbed `Rams Village`, will feature a cutting-edge training facility and headquarters for the LA Rams, alongside a new indoor entertainment venue.
Located in Woodland Hills, California, the development will also incorporate a hotel, retail spaces, a grocery store, and park areas. The entire undertaking is estimated to take up to ten years and cost as much as £8 billion.
Kroenke stated, “As we begin our tenth season back in Los Angeles, we are still dedicated to helping shape the future of this great city.”
He added, “Rams Village at Warner Center will further transform Woodland Hills by creating a lively community hub with public open spaces, new entertainment options, retail, and residential offerings.”
“This is a fantastic chance to develop a dynamic destination and establish the Rams` permanent base within Los Angeles. We are excited to collaborate with the City to make this vision a reality.”
The LA Rams` new training site will boast two full-size grass fields and a 150,000 square foot indoor practice field capable of hosting up to 2,500 spectators.
While this development promises significant benefits for the NFL team, Arsenal fans have reacted negatively to the announcement.
Many Arsenal supporters believe that the club’s training ground, London Colney, which opened 26 years ago, is in greater need of modernization.
One fan expressed on social media: “While KSE invests billions in futuristic facilities for the Rams, Arsenal`s London Colney training ground—stuck in time with its 20th-century infrastructure—still awaits the much-needed investment.”
Another commented: “KSE is investing $10 billion in a state-of-the-art Rams complex, yet London Colney is left with outdated, concrete-like pitches. What are their priorities?!”
It was reported last month that Arsenal is exploring options to increase the capacity of Emirates Stadium.
Discussions are reportedly in preliminary stages, with various potential solutions under consideration.
The Gunners are also expected to be active in the summer transfer window, aiming to strengthen the squad with a striker, winger, and midfielder.
Players like Viktor Gyokeres and Nico Williams have been mentioned as potential targets for the North London club.
Martin Zubimendi is also anticipated to potentially join the team.
Marcus Bellamy