Arsenal have announced the death of Ken Friar at the age of 92.
Arsenal life president Ken Friar has died at the age of 92
Arsenal life president Ken Friar has died at the age of 92 (Image: Getty)
Arsenal have announced the death of Ken Friar, the club's life president, at the age of 92. Friar was involved with the Gunners for over 70 years and was appointed life president in 2020 after stepping back from his executive responsibilities. He played an instrumental role in moving the club from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium at the turn of the century. Friar led the project after serving as Arsenal's managing director for 23 years, having previously worked in the box office and as the club secretary.
Arsenal confirmed the news of Friar's death in an official statement on Tuesday, just hours before their Champions League fixture against Lille.
They said: "It is with profound sadness that we report the death of Life President Ken Friar OBE.
"Since our formation in 1886, there have been many inspirational individuals who have driven our club forward, but no one has had an influence on Arsenal Football Club quite like ‘Mr Friar’ and he leaves an extraordinary life of service to the club as his legacy. One that will surely never be matched."
The statement went on to say: "He will never be forgotten by all those who knew him, be they players who he meticulously talked through a contract, members of the local council who he quietly but persuasively explained the club’s value to the Borough, staff members who delighted in hearing his treasure trove of stories gleaned over many decades but most of all his family and close friends, who loved him for the kind, generous, wonderful father, grandad or friend that he was.
"Ironically, Ken Friar probably wouldn’t want people to dwell on his life’s achievements, as he very much embodied Arsenal’s ‘Always Forward’ motto.
"His maxim of ‘tomorrow’s match is always the most important’ wouldn’t allow for too much contemplation of the past when there was an important future to deal with.
"But it’s hard not to consider the fact that, when he walked through the doors as an Arsenal employee on matchdays at the request of George Allison in 1945, he would sneak down the tunnel to catch a glimpse of his heroes playing on the hallowed Highbury turf.
"A team still featuring Cliff Bastin and George Male, great stars of Herbert Chapman’s all-conquering Arsenal sides of the 1930s.
"Over 90 years later and with the 11th league title of his lifetime secured, he still relished every second of seeing Arsenal players conquer all, putting our name in lights across the world – and we couldn’t have done it without him.
"Our thoughts are with Ken Friar’s family and many friends at this difficult time."
A statement from Arsenal Supporters Club added: "The Arsenal Football Supporters Club wishes to send our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Mr Ken Friar RIP.
"Mr Friar was a good friend of Arsenal Football Supporters Club and our long standing relationship will be treasured.
"Mr Friar was Mr Arsenal, with many remarkable and respected roles at the club, famously from childhood to respected board member and confidant to those at AFC. RIP Mr Friar, you will be sorely missed."