AliousFormer Rangers chairman Dave King has opened up about his early conversations with Andrew Cavenagh and why they ultimately convinced him to back the 49ers Enterprises-led acquisition of the club.
What stood out to King was the consortium’s well-rounded and strategic approach. Their proposal combined strong financial credentials, a deep understanding of the sports industry, and a clear, ambitious commercial plan. King pointed out that any football club aiming for long-term success must rest on three key pillars: a passionate and engaged fanbase, a commercially sound football strategy, and solid financial support. In his view, the 49ers group ticked all three boxes with confidence.
Beyond the numbers, King was especially encouraged by the consortium’s grasp of Rangers’ cultural DNA. He praised Cavenagh and his team for demonstrating a deep appreciation of the club’s identity, values, and the expectations of its supporters. That cultural awareness—alongside their operational track record with the San Francisco 49ers and Leeds United—helped reinforce King’s belief in their suitability to take Rangers into a new era.
King also drew a contrast between the 49ers group and other suitors, including a Saudi consortium. While the latter had the financial power, he felt they lacked hands-on football experience and a clear long-term plan for the club. He raised doubts about how such a group would be received by the fanbase and whether they had the sporting know-how to move Rangers forward.
In the end, King’s support for the 49ers Enterprises takeover came down to their complete package: financial security, strategic clarity, cultural alignment, and proven leadership in the sporting world—all of which, he believes, position them to deliver sustained success for Rangers.
Alious
