Model and influencer Arabella Mia, known online as @arsenalbellauk, says her dedication to Arsenal has sparked controversy mainly because she supports the team nude, wearing nothing but body paint.
The 27-year-old, who has over three million followers across her platforms, has been turning up at matches with a hand-painted kit on her skin, a stunt that’s drawn both admiration and backlash.
Arabella says she started body painting as a way to stand out and make her mark in a male-dominated space where women are often dismissed as fake fans.
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Men always assume I don’t know anything about football,” she said. “But I usually end up knowing more than they do.” A lifelong football lover, she credits her ex-boyfriend, a devoted Gooner, with deepening her love for Arsenal.
Using her background in special effects makeup, she painted her first Arsenal kit directly onto her body and headed to Emirates Stadium to interview fans.
I was nervous at first, but once I started talking football, I completely forgot I was technically naked,” she said. The response in person was mostly positive but online, the clip went viral and sparked outrage, with some even calling for her to be banned from matches.
Despite the criticism, Arabella hasn’t backed down. She continues to attend games and engage with fans, insisting her goal is to help carve space for more women in football. “This is my way of showing passion.
I don’t get why a woman’s body still causes so much uproar,” she said. “The little girl who called me a superhero? That’s all the proof I need that I’m doing something different.”
Now a regular presence either outside stadiums or in local pubs during away games, Arabella says most fans and even stadium staff are supportive. “I throw on a top before going inside, and no one makes a fuss,” she said.
This is pure passion for my team. I’ll keep turning up, body paint and all, because I love Arsenal and I love being part of this world.”
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