books- Ziad Abdel Fattah:
With Arsenal winning their 14th title in English Premier League This week, they celebrated fans Around the world at this moment, 22 years after its last victory in the 2003/04 season, the club's popularity has increased significantly, particularly in English-speaking African countries, due to a deep historical, cultural and emotional connection with the London club.
Arsenal has a reputation for nurturing African talent.
During Arsène Wenger's era, Arsenal became famous for embracing African talent and forming a team that included many black players.
Stars like Nwankwo Kanu, Kolo Toure, and Emmanuel Adebayor made African fans feel a sense of belonging and pride, and for many fans, Arsenal was a club that gave players like them the chance to shine on the biggest stages.
The English Premier League enjoys popularity on African television.
The club benefited from the growing popularity of the English Premier League on African television, particularly through channels such as SuperSport.
Arsène Wenger, a former football player and French coach, managed several clubs before taking over at Arsenal from 1997 to 2018, which is considered the most prominent club in his career. His time managing Arsenal was the longest and most successful in the club's history, while his changes to English football through talent scouting systems, player training, and diet systems contributed to its development. The globalization of the sport in the 21st century also helped.
Two days ago, the legendary French coach sent a congratulatory message to Arsenal following their Premier League title win for the first time since 2004.
In countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Rwanda, Arsenal's popularity has gone beyond just football results, becoming part of popular culture.
Fan clubs formed across Africa, political figures publicly declared their love for the team, and fans built a strong emotional bond that lasted for decades.
Raila Odinga, the dominant political leader in Kenya for decades until his death last year, was an avid Arsenal fan.
Arsenal are hoping to end the season with a historic double, as they also prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final at the end of this month.
