Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy steps down after nearly 25 years

By Ojeikere Aikhoje 

 

Former Tottenham Chairman, Daniel Levy

 

Premier League side, Tottenham Hotspur, on Thursday announced that long-serving executive chairman, Daniel Levy, has stepped down from his role after nearly 25 years, a development that has shocked the football community globally.

Levy’s exit was announced via a statement on the club’s website.

Despite Levy’s exit, the club state here are no changes to the ownership or shareholder structure of the Club.

Appointed in 2001, as replacement for Alan Sugar, he eventually became one of the strongest men in global football.

“This is all part of the club’s ambition to ensure that it is set up to deliver long-term sporting success,” the London club said in a statement on its website.

Levy, the driving force behind Tottenham’s £1.2 billion ($1.6 billion) stadium as well as state of the art training centre, will be remembered for also leading the club to beat Premier League rivals, Manchester United, in the Europa Cup final.

 

Levy’s Appreciation

Daniel Levy said: “I am incredibly proud of the work I have done together with the executive team and all our employees. We have built this club into a global heavyweight competing at the highest level.

“More than that, we have built a community. I was lucky enough to work with some of the greatest people in this sport, from the team at Lilywhite House and Hotspur Way to all the players and managers over the years. I wish to thank all the fans that have supported me over the years. It hasn’t always been an easy journey but significant progress has been made. I will continue to support this club passionately.”

Unhappy Fans

However, the 63-year-old was a polarising figure among Tottenham fans, with numerous protests against him during difficult spell for the Premier League team.

The Europa Cup success – which ended Tottenham’s 17-year trophy drought – was not enough to spare boss Ange Postecoglou from Levy’s wrath as the Australian was sacked after two turbulent seasons in charge.

New Direction

Peter Charrington, a director of ENIC, takes over in the newly-created role as non-executive chairman, the club said.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Daniel and his family for their commitment and loyalty to the club over so many years,” Charrington said.

Brand Health

Tottenham Hotspur has been transformed over the last quarter of a century. It has played in European competitions in the last 18 of 20 seasons, becoming one of the world’s most recognised football clubs, consistently investing in its academy, players and facilities, including a new, world-class stadium and state of the art training centre.

The club has also competed regularly at the highest level, enjoying a number of fantastic on-field successes, including the recent Europa League cup win.

Levy hired Thomas Frank from Brentford to replace Postecoglou in the last significant decision of his reign.