Aliko Dangote, one of Africa’s richest men and the Chairman of Dangote Group, has expressed regret about not seizing the opportunity to buy Arsenal Football Club when he had the chance. In a candid interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, Dangote discussed his past aspirations to purchase the Premier League club for $2 billion and reflected on how circumstances have changed since then.
Dangote first considered buying Arsenal during a time when the club was not performing at its best. “The last time we had this interview, I told you that yes, as soon as I finished with the refinery, I am going to try and buy Arsenal,” he mentioned. His ambition was fueled by his desire to invest in a club with a rich history and a massive global following.
However, he admitted that when he looked at the club’s performance back then, it did not align with the level of investment he was willing to make. “At that time, they were not doing very well,” he explained. This context highlights how financial decisions in sports often hinge not only on personal ambition but also on the current status of the club.
Fast forward to the present, and Arsenal has seen a remarkable turnaround in form and fortunes. Under the management of Mikel Arteta, the club has returned to competitive success, challenging for top positions in the Premier League. This resurgence has also seen a significant increase in the value of the club, with Dangote noting, “Everything has gone up. The clubs are all doing well. Arsenal is doing extremely well now.”
This change has made the prospect of buying Arsenal much more expensive, with estimates suggesting that a purchase price could now be around $4 billion. Dangote candidly admitted, “I think I don’t have that kind of excess liquidity to go and buy a club for $4 billion.”
Given these financial realities, Dangote has decided to focus on his ongoing business projects rather than pursuing a football club. He stated, “I would rather do something with the money. What I’ll do is continue to be the biggest fan of Arsenal.” This sentiment reflects a common dilemma faced by many successful entrepreneurs: the balance between personal passions and business investments.
He reiterated his commitment as a fan, saying, “I watch their games every time. I will remain a major supporter of Arsenal.” His passion for the club remains unwavering, even as he acknowledges the missed opportunity to own it.
Aliko Dangote’s regret over not buying Arsenal serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the world of sports and business. What was once a feasible investment opportunity has now become a financial stretch, illustrating the dynamic nature of the football market. Despite this, Dangote continues to support the club from the stands, embodying the spirit of a true fan. As he moves forward with his business ventures, he will remain a loyal supporter, cheering Arsenal on as they strive for success in the Premier League.
