Hollywood star Anne Hathaway has shared the story behind her unexpected love for Arsenal, crediting club legend Thierry Henry as the main reason she became a lifelong supporter.
Childhood Moment That Sparked a Lifelong Passion
During a BBC interview with fellow actress Meryl Streep, Hathaway revealed that her Arsenal fandom began in childhood while watching football with her father.
She recalled how witnessing the iconic “Invincibles” squad left a lasting impression, particularly Henry’s brilliance on the pitch. Hathaway described him as “maybe the greatest player of all time,” highlighting the impact he had on her early football memories.
According to Hathaway, her father’s enthusiasm sealed the deal. Once he declared himself an Arsenal fan, she says, supporting any other club was never an option.
The Influence of Arsenal’s “Invincibles”
The legendary 2003–04 Arsenal squad—famously known as the “Invincibles”—remains one of the most celebrated teams in football history. Managed by Arsène Wenger, the team went an entire Premier League season unbeaten.
For Hathaway, that era defined her connection to the club and cemented her admiration for Henry, widely regarded as one of the greatest forwards in football history.
Belief in Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal
Hathaway also expressed confidence in the current Arsenal squad under manager Mikel Arteta. Despite recent setbacks, she believes the team has what it takes to win major trophies again.
“We’ve got a great squad, and if anyone is going to do this, it’s these guys,” she said, reaffirming her loyalty with the phrase “North London forever.”
Arsenal’s Current Form and Title Ambitions
Arsenal are currently battling for the Premier League title, aiming to secure their first league triumph since the historic Invincibles season.
However, recent performances have made the journey more challenging. The team has dropped crucial points and suffered setbacks in domestic competitions, including elimination from the FA Cup and defeat in the League Cup final.
Despite this, Arteta’s side remains firmly in the title race. Their upcoming clash with Newcastle United could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the season.
Can Arsenal End Their Title Drought?
With the season entering its critical phase, Arsenal fans are hoping for a strong finish. Backed by global supporters—including Hollywood stars like Hathaway—the Gunners are determined to bring Premier League glory back to North London.