Press "Enter" to skip to content

Arsenal supporters show dismay over re-election of chairman Sir Chips and director Josh

Arsenal Chairman, Sir Chips Keswick and director Josh Kroenke have been re-elected despite strong disapproval and opposition from the fans during the club’s Annual General Meeting.

Club directors faced a major revolt as a group of small shareholders delayed proceedings at the meeting following the re-election of the duo, expressing their sadness at the re-election of chairman Sir Chips and director, Kroenke.

The meeting which had the attendance of chief executive Ivan Gazidis and Coach Arsene Wenger saw the majority of about 200 shareholders present with many standing due to insufficient seats.

Despite votes against the re-election of Sir Chips and Kroenke, the 70 year old businessman, Stan Kroenke who voted by proxy had his 67 per cent holding swaying the outcome of the election.

The votes of the majority shareholder amounted to little as both Stan Kroenke (father of Josh Kroenke) and Alisher Usmanov with over 30 per cent ownership of the club voting in favour of Sir Chips and Kroenke.

Arsenal Supporters’ Trust were however aware that there opposition will meet with brick wall as it was certain it would not pave through but were however contented that a it was obvious that a large amount of the small shareholders were not happy with the current state of affairs at the club.

“In particular we feel that the present directors are not acting with sufficient independence, nor representing the interest of the small shareholders, of the future custodianship of the club,” it said.

The shareholder also questioned as to why the CEO, Ivan Gazidis still received the sum of £2.6 million despite the poor season recorded.

Ivan on his part stated that Arsenal is one of the most successful club in England and had a good performance in the last season, but his did not go down well as a shareholder apparently made it clear they were beaten 10-2 in the Champions League and also have been relegated to the Europa League.

Responding to this, Coach Arsene Wenger said, “I dedicate 99 per cent of my lifetime to make you happy. Looking at today, that is not easy. My determination is as strong as ever.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal fans have directed their anger from Wenger to Kroenke as there have been demonstrations against Stan Kroenke’s ownership including chants at recent matches and more focus directed at the board. Kroenke has however said he is committed long-term at the club.

Arsenal is currently fifth on the Premier League.

Facebook Comments
ETN24 - Explaining the News is about putting News in the correct context to promote understanding and education. We believe News should educate, not agitate. Our dedication is to fighting Fake and Sensational News, as well as to keep an eye on the media to ensure our peace and sanity are not sold for traffic.
+ posts