The Uzbek billionaire is one of Arsenal's largest shareholders, but the deal that allowed Stan Kroenke to take control at The Emirates has left him with little influence at the club.

He has now spoken out against the board and decisions he believes have been detrimental to the club and Gunners supporters.

Usmanov told the News of the World the directors should be trying to improve Arsenal's financial position and deliver success, instead of looking to make 'significant personal profits' during a 'trophyless period'.

And he warned things could get worse unless Arsene Wenger is allowed to make major changes to his squad.


'Arsenal has all of its major commercial contracts coming up for renewal in the next couple of years,' Usmanov said.

'It is no secret that to maximise the value of those you want to have success on the field and to be winning trophies. To do that you need to invest now in building a winning team.

'This is simple commercial logic. Whether it comes to pass, we shall see.'

Wenger is reported to be keen to add Lille's Gervinho, Ajax's Christian Eriksen, Blackburn's Christopher Samba and Birmingham's Roger Johnson to his squad over the summer.

But it is not clear whether they represent the calibre of player Usmanov has in mind for Arsenal.

'There is a widely-held view among most commentators - and one that I agree with - that the club needs to stiffen the defensive spine of the team, with a dominant keeper, strong centre-halves and a powerful defensive midfielder in the mould of Claude Makelele,' he said.

Usmanov added that it was also crucial to keep Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, but expressed doubts about whether the board shared that opinion.