- Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealth titan, has reignited his deep-rooted passion for Arsenal FC.
- In a recent interview, he revealed his past ambitions to acquire the club but shared how his bold business ventures forced him to put that dream on hold.
Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has officially closed the door on his dream of owning Arsenal Football Club, admitting that the chance has now slipped away.
Speaking during an interview on Bloomberg TV in New York, Dangote explained that Arsenal’s recent surge in success has skyrocketed the club’s valuation from a tempting $2 billion to a staggering $4 billion— a figure that no longer aligns with his plans.
He said:
“When I wanted to buy, Arsenal wasn’t doing really well
“Now I don’t have that type of excess liquidity to go and buy a club for $4 billion and use it as a promotional tool. I would rather do something else with the money.”
He shared that, for years, he harbored a genuine desire to acquire the club for $2 billion, but the demands of his ambitious business refinery projects forced him to prioritize his empire.
Though he’s stepping back from a potential takeover, Dangote, said his love for the Gunners remains unwavering, and he continues to passionately support the club from afar.
He added
“I will continue to be the biggest fan of Arsenal and watch matches.”
WATCH HIM SPEAK IN THE CLIP BELOW
Back in 2021, Aliko Dangote, the powerhouse behind Dangote Group, once again made headlines with his links to Arsenal FC, a club then valued at $2 billion.
This wasn’t the first time Africa’s richest man set his sights on the North London giants. Years earlier, Dangote had his eye on acquiring Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith’s coveted 15.9% stake in the club, a move that could have shifted the power dynamics at Arsenal.
However, American billionaire Stan Kroenke swooped in, sealing the deal in 2015 and solidifying his grip on the club.
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