After yesterday’s 3-0 win over Lille, Mikel Arteta led the tributes to Mr Ken Friar, who sadly passed away earlier this week aged 92.
Mr Friar was involved with the club across nine decades, working his way up from the box office to the boardroom, where he held the roles of club secretary and managing director. He later became a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s relocation from Highbury to the Emirates, working tirelessly on the project with fellow director and long-time friend Danny Fiszman.
In 2020, Mr Friar stepped down as executive director and was appointed life president. During his time at the club, he witnessed the men’s team win 25 major honours with seven different managers. His last, of course, was May’s title triumph under Arteta, who first met Mr Friar as a player following his move from Everton 15 years ago.
Before taking questions on the performance, the Spaniard opened his post-match press conference with a few words in Mr Friar’s memory.
“Before we start, I would like to say a few words about Ken Friar, our life president. It’s a really sad day for everybody that loves Arsenal Football Club or anybody that has come across him. I had the privilege, the honour to meet him, to spend time with him, to learn from him.
“There are people in football clubs that have a role, and they fulfil a role, and there are other people that they create an identity, they create values, and they have a vision to create a future for the football club.
“I think the legacy that Ken is going to leave to all of us, to our football club and everybody that has been close to him is going to be forever.
“I want to pass on all our love to his relatives, his family, but just so they know that the way we feel about him cannot be anything but extraordinary.”
Ahead of kick-off last night, a short moment of reflection was held to mark Mr Friar’s passing. The stadium quickly stood to applaud a man, universally respected around the club.
Scarves and flowers were also laid at the Ken Friar statue at the entrance to the bridge bearing his name. A further, fuller, tribute to ‘Mr Arsenal’ is planned for the Gunners’ next home match against Everton on 24 November.
Tributes to Mr Friar
“Ken would call me every December to wish my family and I a happy Christmas. What a class act he was – the epitomisation of all that Arsenal stands for: Victory Through Togetherness.”
Tony Adams on X
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“Mr Ken Friar, I’ve just found out that you passed away, my friend. I just wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the guidance that you gave me when I signed for Arsenal. You were there every time you signed a contract in your office, telling me those jokes and then retelling me those jokes two years later when I re-signed another contract. You were the bedrock of Arsenal Football Club, and always have been. you will be sadly missed. All my condolences go to Mr Ken Friar’s family. Rest in peace, Mr Friar. I love you.”
Lee Dixon on Track Radio
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“What a sad day, my deepest condolences to Mr Arsenal’s loved ones, Ken Friar is an Arsenal icon and his achievements will never be forgotten.”
David Seaman on X
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“Ken Friar may not have scored the goals or lifted the trophies, but his contribution to Arsenal was every bit as important. He was a constant presence through generations of players, managers and supporters, helping preserve the identity and values of the club he loved.”
Arsenal Independent Supporters Association (AISA) via The Gooner
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“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.”
Arsenal Supporters Club (London) on X
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“Thank you, Ken, for a lifetime devoted to Arsenal. You will be greatly missed. Ken’s extraordinary lifetime of service to Arsenal speaks volumes about his loyalty, dedication and love for the club. Across generations, he was a constant presence, giving so much to Arsenal, its supporters and the local community. Our thoughts are with Ken’s family, friends and everyone who knew him.”
The Arsenal Supporters Trust on X