Salisbury FC has 'huge potential' says new owner
New Salisbury FC owner Ali Alhamad talks to BBC Radio Wiltshire
- Published
Salisbury FC's new owner Ali Alhamad says there is "huge potential" at the club after agreeing a takeover deal.
The Kuwaiti businessman's company Proleague Ltd will become the National League South side's new owners subject to Football Association and National League approval.
The Wiltshire outfit confirmed on Saturday they planned to sell to "secure a future" that "unlocks new opportunities for growth and success".
Alahamad told BBC Radio Wiltshire: "There is huge potential with the club, all over. The city, the people that attend, it's a beautiful stadium, the people are wonderful.
"The main goal is creating a sustainable, well-run, community football club which serves Salisbury right."
Salisbury FC is a phoenix club set up in 2014 in the wake of Salisbury City being thrown out of the Football Conference and placed in administration.
The Whites returned to football in the Wessex League Premier a year later and went on to win two promotions in three seasons.
In 2024 they were promoted to the National League South - the sixth tier - and finished 20th last season. Attendances at their Raymond McEnhill Stadium averaged more than 800 fans per match.
Alhamad, who has worked in manufacturing, the oil and gas industry, real estate, hospitality and crypto-currency during his career, said he "loves football", having also played while at university in the United States.
The logistical links to London were part of the initial appeal of Salisbury, but Alhamad said after visiting he felt a "connection" with the city.
"I felt I can build on this. I'll be comfortable working with such a great community and it was the option for me," he said.
Kuwati businessman Alhamad said the aim is to bring "stability" to Salisbury FC
While promotion is the ultimate goal, Alhamad said the aim next season is for a "mid-table finish" to bring stability to the club.
The budget for manager Brian Dutton will increase in 2025-26, but the players will remain part-time for now.
"It's not smart long term to throw money lavishly," Alhamad added.
"In the future our eye is on promotion, but it is not something we have our eyes on now.
"I'm mostly focused on creating a sustainable club with several revenue streams that are not available now and also [making the club] resilient."