Does big money mean better football? The recent takeover of Newcastle by the Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund, which has an asset base of over $500 billion, shook the Premier League and European football like never before. The English Premier League remains the most powerful league in the world, with an estimated 12.3 million audience per game. However, the influx of big money, including billionaires with more political than financial interests, is viewed by many as detrimental. Clubs still need significant investments to secure the best facilities and employ top personnel. Unfortunately, the financial success of many billionaires does not always translate into success for their clubs.
1. Newcastle United
With an asset base of over $500 billion, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is the largest investment fund in the world. Controlled by the Saudi Royal Family, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the fund’s takeover of Newcastle United in 2021 sparked widespread controversy. Activists and media in the UK criticised the move due to the Saudi government’s human rights record. Despite the criticism, Newcastle escaped relegation in the 2022 season after spending a record £100 million in the January transfer window. The club is now expected to become one of the biggest spenders in the transfer market and potentially challenge for the Premier League title in the near future.
2. Manchester City
Manchester City’s deep-pocketed owners have transformed the club into a football powerhouse. Since the Abu Dhabi United Group, led by Sheikh Mansour, took over in 2008, City have won 13 domestic trophies, including multiple Premier League titles. With a net worth of approximately £21 billion, Sheikh Mansour has invested heavily in attracting top players, including Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and Yaya Touré. The group has also expanded globally, acquiring clubs such as New York City FC and Mumbai City FC.
3. Chelsea
The invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to sanctions against Russian oligarchs, including Chelsea’s former owner, Roman Abramovich. Forced to sell the club, Chelsea was acquired by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. Boehly, with a net worth of £4.4 billion, has already made significant investments in player transfers, ensuring Chelsea remains a European giant.
4. Fulham
Shahid Khan, owner of Flex-N-Gate and the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, took over Fulham to make the club a stable Premier League presence. Despite setbacks, including relegation, Khan has invested in improving the squad and the Craven Cottage stadium. With a net worth of £9.5 billion, Khan’s commitment continues to give Fulham a fighting chance.
5. Aston Villa
The NSWE Group, owned by Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris and American businessman Wes Edens, has revitalised Aston Villa. Jointly worth over £9 billion, they invested heavily in the squad, training facilities, and infrastructure, ensuring Villa’s return to the Premier League was stable and ambitious.
6. Leicester City
The Srivaddhanaprabha family, owners of King Power, have transformed Leicester City since their takeover in 2010. Under their stewardship, Leicester achieved the impossible, winning the Premier League in 2016. Investments in infrastructure, including a world-class training facility, have kept the club competitive. The family’s net worth is estimated at £7.7 billion.
7. Arsenal
Arsenal’s owners, the Kroenke family, have faced criticism for a perceived lack of ambition. Despite being worth £8 billion, the Kroenkes have prioritised financial stability over footballing success. However, recent seasons have shown signs of improvement, with significant investments in young talent and a potential return to title contention.
8. Brighton & Hove Albion
Tony Bloom, with a net worth of £1.3 billion, has revolutionised Brighton with a focus on analytics and sustainability. His background in sports betting has informed a data-driven approach to recruitment, making Brighton a model of efficiency in the Premier League.
9. Stoke City
Peter Coates, founder of Bet365, returned Stoke City to local ownership in 2006. Despite being relegated in 2018, Coates’ net worth of over £12 billion has kept Stoke financially stable. His investment in the club and ties to sports betting continue to shape Stoke’s ambitions.
10. Manchester United
The Glazers, with a collective net worth of £4 billion, remain controversial owners of Manchester United. While the club’s revenue remains unmatched, poor investment in infrastructure and questionable recruitment have left fans frustrated. Nevertheless, United remains one of the Premier League’s biggest spenders.
Trends in Wealthy Club Ownership
Wealthy club ownership has become increasingly international, with Middle Eastern, American, and Asian investors reshaping English football. These owners bring significant financial backing and spark debates about their investments’ ethical implications.
From Newcastle’s Saudi-backed resurgence to Brighton’s data-driven approach, wealthy owners have left an indelible mark on English football. While their influence brings success, it also raises questions about the sport’s future. Who is your favorite wealthy owner, and how do you think they’ve impacted the beautiful game? Let us know in the comments!
