Arsenal supremo: Wait until FFP comes in, then we’ll be able to compete

Thursday, November 15, 2012
8:51 PM

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis believes that the club will be placed on an more even footing when Financial Fair Play comes in.

Gunners fans have grown frustrated after seven years without a trophy and have accused the board of putting profits over prizes.

“As our financial capability develops, as economic rationality enters the world of football, our ability to compete at salary levels for the very best talent will be enhanced,” Gazidis continued. “Michel Platini (UEFA president) has created this as his platform and if they don’t enforce FFP well and strictly, their credibility will be shot and they are very well aware of that.”

The Gunners chief insists that the introduction of FFP will not affect the quality of players coming into England’s top flight.

“There is a growing consensus among owners across the Premier League that we need tighter fiscal regulation,” he said. “That will be good for the Premier League, clubs, owners and fans. We are seeing Premier League revenues growing and growing, and in spending-power terms we have separated ourselves from the other leagues.

“In general terms, the talent flow of players is going to be towards the Premier League, with or without FFP. In fact, over a longer period the increased stability will attract better owners and actually lead to further growth and an even more exciting future.”