Arsenal Independent Supporters Association greet club takeover as ‘new era’

Published: 22nd April, 2011
by ANDREW JOHNSON

ARSENAL fans have broadly welcomed the takeover of the club by American billionaire Stan Kroenke but have warned him against dragging the Gunners into debt.

In a statement published this week, Arsenal Independent Supporters Association said the takeover would be a “new era” for the club, bringing to an end years of speculation and uncertainty over ownership since Mr Kroenke and Uzbeki billionaire Alisher Usmanov began to buy shares in the club in 2007.

However, they called on Mr Kroenke to publicly state that any debt incurred in the takeover would not be transferred to Arsenal plc. 

They also called for a freeze on ticket prices.

“Arsenal fans are very aware of what has happened at other major football clubs in recent years when changes of ownership have taken place,” the statement said. “We therefore believe it is crucial that no debt contracted be transferred to Arsenal Holdings plc or any subsidiary now or in the future, nor secured against Arsenal revenues.”

The group endorsed Arsenal Supporters Trust’s decision not to sell its shares to Mr Kroenke, in order to ensure fans’ views continue to be represented. 

Aisa secretary Paul Matz said: “Aisa has always believed in the opportunity for fans to own a bit of the club.”