I regret not buying Arsenal – Dangote

“I regret not buying Arsenal” – Dangote.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, The President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, has expressed his regret for not purchasing the English football club, Arsenal when his interest lies with owning a football club.

Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, the billionaire revealed his longing to own a football club and specifically mentioned the Gunners. He explained that he missed out on buying the prestigious club because of his commitment to his refinery project.

He said he wished he had bought the English club when the team was valued at around $2 billion.

“I think that time has passed. The last time when we had this interview, I told you as soon as I finish with the refinery, I am going to try and buy Arsenal.”

“But you know everything has increased in value and the club is doing very well right now, unlike before” He stated.

“I think I don’t have that kind of excess liquidity to go and buy a club for $4 billion for promotional venture. However, what I will do is to continually be the biggest fan of Arsenal. I make it a point to watch their games anytime they are playing. At this time, I don’t think it makes sense to buy Arsenal.”

When asked if he regretted not buying when Arsenal’s value was lower, he responded, “I regret not buying arsenal. Actually, I do wish I had purchased it earlier, but at that time, my money was more needed in completing my refinery project than to buying Arsenal. I could have bought the club for $2 billion but I wouldn’t have been able to finish my project. So I had to choose, It was either I finish my project or buy Arsenal.”

Dangote had in 2020 made known his intention to go for the North London club after his refinery project.

Now, the richest man in Africa has set aside his ambition to take over at Emirates Stadium.