Two-time Ligue 2 champions: All you need to know about the French club Dangote is close to buying

After failing in his bid to purchase Premier League giants Arsenal, Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote is reportedly close to buying French Ligue 2 side FC Valenciennes.

Reports emerging from France indicate that Mr. Dangote is buying 60% shares of the club.

Here is some noteworthy information about the club readers might be interested in:

1. Valenciennes Football Club was formed in 1913, some 110 years ago. It was initially founded under the name Union Sportive de Valenciennes Anzin (USVA).

The club spent over 80 years playing under the name before switching to its current name.

2. The club has featured in both the French topflight and the second division (Ligue 1 and Ligue 2).

Valenciennes have played 40 seasons in Ligue 1 and 36 seasons in Ligue 2.


3. The club has never won the French Ligue 1, but they're two-time Ligue 2 champions. Valenciennes were also Coup de France finalist in 1951.


4. The club is currently 15th in Ligue 2 with 37 points after 32 matches. They lost their last league 2-0 at home to Amiens on Saturday, April 22.


5. The club plays its home matches at the Stade du Hainaut in Valenciennes.

6. Les Athéniens are currently managed by former defender, Nicolas Rabuel.

WDN