Football has evolved beyond the pitch, with many former players now holding significant roles in club ownership. The modern game involves huge sums of money, attracting investors worldwide. English football, in particular, has drawn in several high-profile former players. They have taken on various roles, from controlling stakes to minority shareholders or public faces of investment groups. This trend highlights the growing appeal of English football to players looking beyond their playing careers.
One notable example is Gary Neville, who is part of the famous Class of ’92 group that took over Salford City. Neville, along with fellow Manchester United legends David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Nicky Butt, has remained involved with the League Two club. Salford City has experienced significant growth, enjoying four promotions in five seasons before reaching the EFL. However, establishing themselves at that level has proved challenging.
David Beckham is another prominent figure, known for his ownership of Inter Miami and his involvement with Salford City. Beckham was part of the original Class of ’92 takeover and remains involved alongside Neville following changes to the club’s ownership structure. Other former players, such as Cesar Azpilicueta, have also made the move into club ownership. Azpilicueta became a shareholder in Hashtag United in 2018, drawn to the club’s ambition, community, and vision.
Hector Bellerin has invested in Forest Green Rovers, a club known for its environmental credentials. The former Arsenal and Spain full-back became the club’s second-largest shareholder in 2020. Bellerin's involvement aligns with his long-standing association with environmental causes. Mark Palios, a former midfielder, has a strong connection to Tranmere Rovers, having made over 200 appearances for the club during his playing career.
Palios and his wife, Nicola, took a controlling stake in Tranmere in 2014 and have remained involved with the club. He currently serves as chairman, overseeing the club's operations in League Two. Luka Modric, the Croatian midfielder, has also entered English club ownership, becoming part of an investment consortium that acquired a stake in Swansea City in 2025.
Wilfried Zaha has invested in AFC Croydon Athletic, a club based in south London. Zaha joined forces with musician Stormzy and businessman Danny Young to invest in the club in 2023. Eric Cantona’s connection with FC United of Manchester is different, as the former Manchester United forward became a co-owner of the fan-owned club.
Andy Carroll has taken an unusual route into ownership, combining it with his playing career. The former Newcastle United and England striker became a shareholder in Dagenham & Redbridge while still playing for the club. Alexandre Pato, a former international striker, has also entered English football ownership, becoming the public face of a consortium that completed a takeover of Northampton Town in 2025.
Key points
- Several former football stars have moved into club ownership, taking on various roles.
- English football has drawn in high-profile former players due to its growing appeal and investment opportunities.
- These former players have taken on roles such as controlling stakes, minority shares, or public faces of investment groups.
