Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the President and CEO of Dangote Group, has expressed regret over his decision not to purchase Arsenal FC when the club was valued at around $2 billion. The Nigerian billionaire, who had previously expressed interest in buying the North London football club after completing his refinery project, now believes the opportunity has passed due to the club's improved performance and increased value.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, Dangote reflected on his missed chance to acquire the club, explaining that his financial priorities were focused on completing his Dangote Refinery. He said, “I regret not buying Arsenal before, but my money was more needed in completing my project than buying Arsenal.”
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Now valued at around $4 billion, Dangote explained that he no longer has the "excess liquidity" required for such a purchase. Despite this, he remains an avid supporter of the club, saying, “I will remain a major supporter of Arsenal, but I don’t think it makes sense today to buy Arsenal.”
While Arsenal's current success makes the acquisition more costly, Dangote reaffirmed his commitment as a lifelong fan.
