Former Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini has announced plans to potentially buy out the club’s current owners, the Kroenke family. Flamini, who hung up his boots in 2019, has successfully transitioned into the business realm, co-founding GFBiochemicals. His stake in the company has significantly increased his wealth, with Forbes estimating his net worth at an impressive £10 billion.
In early 2023, Forbes valued Arsenal at £2.6 billion, indicating that Flamini could feasibly acquire the club multiple times over. The 41-year-old has expressed his long-standing admiration for Arsenal and other clubs close to his heart, such as his childhood team, Marseille. In a recent interview with The Athletic, he articulated his desire to manage a club that aligns with his vision of using football for a greater purpose.
Flamini stated, “Football is the No.1 sport, it is driving so much attention. The hot issues of this world should also be on the agenda of the governing bodies. It’s a world that I belong to.” He emphasized the importance of timing, vision, and collaboration in pursuing his football ambitions, saying, “If there is the right opportunity at the right time and the right discussion, I would love to.”
Reflecting on his time at Arsenal, Flamini acknowledged the influence of his former teammates, Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp, on his work ethic. “I learnt to work. Work is very important, and they were giving everything in training,” he remarked. Flamini noted that every match felt like a battle, instilling in him a “winning mentality” that he still holds today.
Despite Flamini’s enthusiasm, there is currently no indication that owner Stan Kroenke is willing to sell the club. For the time being, Flamini remains focused on GFBiochemicals, which aims to develop sustainable alternatives to oil-based products. He explained, “We founded GFBiochemicals with the ambition of finding sustainable alternatives to oil-based products,” highlighting the company’s commitment to creating environmentally friendly substitutes for everyday items such as plastics and bath gels.
While Flamini had previously downplayed the prospect of football ownership, stating, “Don’t ask me how I’ll be involved in football, because it’s not something I’ve thought about,” he acknowledged his lifelong connection to the sport. Flamini reiterated, “I will always want to be part of this community,” signaling that his passion for football remains strong, despite his current business priorities.
As the situation develops, fans and stakeholders of Arsenal will be watching closely to see if Flamini’s aspirations in football will come to fruition. His dual legacy as a former player and a successful entrepreneur positions him uniquely within the football landscape, paving the way for potential future involvement with the club he once called home.
