Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, has expressed his regret over missing the opportunity to purchase Arsenal Football Club for $2 billion.

Speaking during an interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, Dangote acknowledged that the window for acquiring the Premier League team had likely closed.

Reflecting on past ambitions, Dangote explained that he had once seriously considered buying the club after completing his refinery project.

However, the rapid increase in football club valuations and Arsenal’s current success made the acquisition less feasible.

He pointed out that when he initially entertained the idea, Arsenal was not performing well on the field, making the purchase more attractive at the time.

Now, with the club’s value reportedly soaring to $4 billion, Dangote noted that he no longer has the excess liquidity to pursue such a venture.

He emphasized that his resources were better utilized in completing his business projects, which he viewed as more critical to his overall strategy.

While the opportunity to buy Arsenal has passed, he remains a passionate supporter of the club, continuing to follow their games and cheer them on as a devoted fan.

Despite his regret over not seizing the opportunity earlier, Dangote reiterated that his decision was influenced by practical considerations.

He expressed satisfaction with his role as a fan and major supporter, acknowledging that the money used to purchase the club could have been better spent on his various business ventures.

Looking back, he admitted that Arsenal’s rising fortunes have only deepened his sense of missed opportunity, but he remains committed to focusing on his core business interests moving forward.