There’s a notable surge of American investment into English football clubs.
This past season, clubs with US backing have swept the top three leagues. Right now, 12 out of 20 teams in the English Premier League are fully or partially owned by American investors. This trend extends even to lower divisions, with big names like Tom Brady, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney getting involved.
Kieran Maguire, the author of “The Price of Football,” described the situation as an “American-led revolution.” He mentioned the allure of these investments in discussions about the evolving nature of US influence in the sport.
This American engagement coincides with the expanding footprint of US investors in international football, driven by an increasing appetite for sports back home.
Starting this Sunday, the US will host the FIFA Club World Cup, featuring two English clubs, Manchester City and Chelsea. Chelsea was bought in 2022 by an American-led consortium headed by billionaire Todd Boehly, who is also linked with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Plus, in 2026, the US will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
For many American celebrities and entrepreneurs, acquiring a British football club is a relatively cost-effective way to join the sporting landscape, perhaps even more appealing than investing in a multimillion-dollar property.
Tom Wagner, co-founder of Nighthead Capital Management, which took over Birmingham City in July 2023, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to be involved with the club.
The American-owned teams seem to be performing well. Fenway Sports Group, which owns Liverpool along with the Red Sox, enjoyed a Premier League Championship victory at the end of April.
Similarly, Leeds United, backed by California’s 49ers Enterprises, climbed to the Premier League after securing their second-tier championship. Celebrities like Will Ferrell and Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps are part of this investment group.
Earlier this spring, Birmingham City also had a significant victory, highlighted by celebrity supporters, including Brady. This came after Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney rejuvenated Wrexham, which they bought in 2021 for just $2.5 million. The club, once languishing in the fifth tier, has since made remarkable strides, valued now at around $400 million.
The success narrative has attracted attention, with industry experts noting that celebrity ownership can blend entertainment and sports in ways that benefit both sides.
Wagner pointed out that for these American investors, British clubs represent a chance to expand their personal brands in the UK, especially given that a significant audience exists there. Meanwhile, the US market offers considerable potential for UK clubs.
Brady’s involvement with Birmingham hasn’t been limited to just his celebrity status; he’s provided valuable insights on nutrition and team culture.
Wagner noted, “There isn’t a day that goes by without discussing Birmingham with Tom.” His ongoing involvement is seen as vital.
Investing in a British club—often available for a fraction of what American sports franchises cost—has gained appeal for many. In fact, recent estimates peg NFL franchise values around $4-15 billion, with even Major League Soccer teams valued over $1 billion.
Michael Eisner’s investment in Portsmouth in 2017 for $7 million underscores this trend—while he noted the club needed direction, it wasn’t as financially prohibitive as many other sports teams.
However, not all reactions to American ownership have been positive. Maguire mentions that local fanbases often resist such investments.
Manchester United fans have felt discontent under the Glazer family, an American dynasty reputed for prioritizing financial gains over club loyalty—having burdened the club with debt while neglecting team needs.
Maguire remarks, “It’s clear that Glazers are more interested in profits than the game itself.”
When they purchased United in 2005, it was valued at $1.5 billion; now Forbes lists it at $6.6 billion, reflecting some success from their financial strategy, despite ongoing discontent among fans.
In contrast, Wagner aims for a more engaged approach with his team. After Knighthead acquired Birmingham, he interacted with supporters, empathizing with their frustrations.
He stated, “I wanted them to know I felt their pain, and I recognize the responsibility to improve things.”
Wagner emphasizes that he and his partners will focus on connecting directly with fans rather than isolating themselves in luxury boxes during matches.
This trend isn’t confined to the UK, either. Notably, Eva Longoria and Kate Upton have stakes in Mexican club Necaxa, while Mark Consuelos and Kelly Ripa have interests in an Italian team.
Kevin Durant is also part of the ownership in Paris Saint-Germain, showcasing a widespread appeal for American stars investing in football abroad.
In 2021, JP Morgan had ambitious plans for a $4.2 billion European Super League with top clubs, but fan backlash led to its cancellation, and an apology from the bank was issued.
Despite that setback, American investments continue to grow in the UK.
Should two more Premier League clubs align with US investments, the Americans will hold 14 votes, potentially reshaping the league in significant ways, including games played in the US.
Maguire suggests, “While the current push to revamp the Premier League may be stalling, it’s unlikely that the conversation is over.” It seems there’s still more to come.
