TOP STORIES - Norodom Ravichak discusses Saint-Étienne takeover bid

In an interview with RFI, Cambodian prince Norodom Ravichak has confirmed his interest in buying Saint-Étienne, discussing his plans for Les Verts should he take over and the reasons behind his choice.

“It’s true that I have officially put myself forward as a candidate to take over at Saint-Étienne.”

“I am passionate about football and grew up enthusiastic about the French league, and of course for the French national team. That’s how I’ve always had a particular affection for Saint-Étienne, who are among the very big clubs in the country. Thanks to my various business networks, I was able to meet people from the world of football, one thing led to another and I was made aware of the project to sell the club a few months ago.”

“My goal now is to take care of Saint-Étienne and those who work so that the club can return to its rightful position in French and European football. I’ve always dreamt of [taking over a football club], the opportunity presented itself in the form of a club that is dear to me. So I decided to do everything to take it.”

“I am bringing in some solid [financial] partners, who I will reveal when the time comes. I am not coming for economic reasons. I want to invest myself over the long term and look after Saint-Étienne. If we reach an agreement, I would bring in enough ressources to achieve these ambitions and allow the club to rediscover its brilliance.”

“Beyond that, I’d like to promote French football and Ligue 1 in Asia by bringing Saint-Étienne to the fore. Notably by developing academies – ASSE’s strong point – in my country, Cambodia, and in other Asian countries. By doing this, we’ll also contribute to promoting Saint-Étienne as a city, and its region, abroad. My ambition for Saint-Étienne is national and international. I hope the bid can move forward soon.”