Arsenal have paid tribute to life president Ken Friar, one of the most important figures in the club’s history, who has died aged 92.
Friar worked for Arsenal for 70 years and was made life president in 2020 after retiring from his position as executive director.
He played a leading role in the Gunners’ move from Highbury to the Emirates by overseeing the stadium project from 2000 to its completion six years later.
Friar received an OBE for services to football in 2000 and the Freedom of the Borough of Islington in 2004.
Arsenal’s players will wear black armbands in memory of Friar during Tuesday’s Champions League match against Lille at the Emirates, and further tributes will take place when they host Everton in the Premier League on October 24.
A club statement read: ‘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”.
Ken Friar devoted his life to Arsenal and remained heavily involved during the most successful period in their history
‘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.
‘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.’
Legendary Arsenal right back Lee Dixon also released a tribute to Mr. Ken Friar saying: ‘Oh what a sad day indeed, Mr. Ken Friar, I’ve just found out, that you’ve 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 I signed a contract in your office telling me those jokes and then retelling me those jokes two years later when I resigned another contract.
You were the bedrock of Arsenal football club, and always have been. And you will be sadly missed.
So all my condolences go to Mr. Ken Friar’s family. And rest in peace, Mr. Friar. I love you.’
