Nigerian tech entrepreneur and billionaire Dozy Mmobuosi believes that the colour of his skin has subjected him to excessive scrutiny in his bid to take over English Championship club Sheffield United, Sports Extra reports. The 43‑year‑old businessman is close to finalising a £90 million takeover of the Blades after holding talks with the current owner, Prince Abdullah.
Speaking on a podcast with former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand, Mmobuosi explained that Sheffield United is the first and only team he supports. He said he felt the energy of the fans in the city and was drawn to the idea of owning the club. “I am now a fan of this club. I told my wife a couple of years ago that, if I ever get involved in soccer, I would only support the club I own. The only team I ever supported is the Super Eagles, and I still support them to this day—that’s my national team,” he said.
Mmobuosi added that he hopes to receive approval from the EFL and find a capable partner. “I’m a long‑term, focused person. I’m not here to just take and go. I believe we’ll get to the Premier League and stay there. I intend to run this club not just as a business that benefits the fans and myself, but the community,” he said.
When asked whether his skin colour makes it difficult to own a club in the UK, Mmobuosi expressed frustration that the supposed quiet takeover was blown into the media, suggesting that questions were raised because of his background. “I am one of the most scrutinised individuals I know. I run a public company, and the scrutiny I face is different. My market cap is hit because maybe Wall Street has refused or failed to understand our message. We are undervalued, and I feel that if I weren’t Nigerian or African, it would have been different. The world needs to change this attitude of naming, shaming or doubting people because they come from a certain place,” he said on the FIVE podcast.
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