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“You’ll Never Keep Me Quiet!” The Arsenal superfan challenging gender stereotypes in football for 70 years

 

Maria Petri isn’t your average football fan. 

The 80 year-old super-fan has travelled the world following Arsenal Football Club and you can find her in the stands at most of the club’s matches.

Whether it’s home or away, the men’s or women’s team, Maria supports the Gunners come rain or shine.

Rarely missing a game, she has become a famous figure within the club and is well known for her chanting during games.

But Maria hasn’t always been welcomed with warmth in the stands with male supporters questioning why a woman was watching a football match.

Watch the video above to hear what she has to say about her love of Arsenal and how football has become a more welcoming place for women.

Embed from Getty Images

Author

  • Emily Salley

    Emily, 22, was born in Ireland and has recently graduated from Cardiff University with a BA degree in Journalism. During her time in the Welsh capital, Emily worked alongside Game On Wales, a local sports charity, producing articles and a monthly newsletter whilst also contributing to the sports section of the university newspaper. Emily plays football which is where her main passion lies but she also follows tennis, rugby union and the Olympics. She hopes to cover major sporting events such as the World Cup and Olympics in the future. Twitter: @emily_salley Email: emilysalley@outlook.com