'A legacy that will never be matched' – Arsenal mourn passing of club legend

Pulse Sports Team 14:41 - 13 October 2026

Arsenal's Life President Ken Friar has passed away at the age of 92. The Gunners paid tribute on Tuesday to the long-serving administrator, who spent six years in the honorary role, DPA reports.

Born in Islington in August 1934, Friar first joined Arsenal as an 11-year-old messenger boy following a chance encounter with manager George Allison. He steadily climbed the ranks to become club secretary in 1973 before being appointed managing director a decade later.

He later played a pivotal role in the Gunners' historic relocation from Highbury to Emirates Stadium in 2006. For his services to football, he was awarded an OBE in 2000 and was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Islington in 2004.

Arsenal players will wear black armbands in his honour during Tuesday's Champions League clash against Lille, with further tributes to follow in Saturday's match against Everton.

"Since our foundation in 1886, many inspirational figures have driven this club forward, but none have made an impact quite like 'Mr Friar'. He leaves behind a legacy of exceptional, lifelong service to the club—one that will surely never be matched," Arsenal said in a statement.