In recent years, the list of footballers who own a football club has continued to grow. Instead of stepping away from the sport after retirement or during the latter stages of their careers, several elite players have chosen to invest directly in clubs. These footballers see ownership as a way to shape the future of the game, support talent development, and leave a lasting legacy beyond their achievements on the pitch.
Some players hold minority stakes, while others control clubs outright. Either way, their involvement highlights a shift where footballers are becoming decision-makers off the field as well.
List of the Footballers who own a Football Club
Cristiano Ronaldo and UD Almería Ownership
Cristiano Ronaldo is among the high-profile footballers who own a football club. He acquired a 25 percent stake in UD Almería, a Spanish second-division side.
The investment was made through CR7 Sports Investments, a company linked to CR7 S.A. While the exact financial figures were not disclosed, the club remains majority-owned by Saudi businessman Mohamed Al Khereiji via the SMC Group. Ronaldo has been playing in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr FC since 2022.
Ronaldo has publicly stated that contributing to football beyond his playing career has always been one of his goals. He views Almería as a club with solid foundations and long-term growth potential. During his time with Real Madrid CF, he scored seven goals in seven matches against Almería. The club last featured in La Liga during the 2023–24 season and currently competes near the top of Spain’s second division.
David Beckham and Inter Miami CF Ownership
David Beckham is the president and co-owner of Inter Miami CF, one of Major League Soccer’s most talked-about teams.
Beckham’s ownership journey began in 2007 when he joined the LA Galaxy. His contract included a unique clause allowing him to purchase an MLS expansion team for $25 million. After retiring in 2013, he exercised that option and officially secured the Miami-based franchise in 2014.
Due to stadium and logistical delays, Inter Miami began competing in MLS in 2020. Beckham partnered with investors including Simon Fuller. In recent seasons, the club gained global attention after signing Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets, along with appointing Gerardo Martino as head coach.
Ronaldo Nazário and Real Valladolid CF Ownership
Ronaldo Nazário became the majority owner of Real Valladolid CF in September 2018.
The former Brazil striker invested approximately €30 million to acquire a 51 percent stake, later increasing his ownership to around 82 percent. This made him one of the first former players to own a controlling stake in a top European league club.
Under his ownership, Valladolid has experienced promotion and relegation multiple times, earning a reputation as a yo-yo club. Despite the instability, Ronaldo has remained committed to improving the club’s infrastructure and competitiveness.
Kylian Mbappé and Stade Malherbe Caen Takeover
Kylian Mbappé entered club ownership in 2024 by taking control of Stade Malherbe Caen, which competes in Ligue 2.
The acquisition was completed through Interconnected Ventures, Mbappé’s investment company, using its financial arm Coalition Capital. Reports suggest Mbappé invested around €15 million of his personal funds to secure a majority stake.
The takeover replaced American fund Oaktree as the primary shareholder, while Pierre-Antoine Capton continues as a minority shareholder. Caen were relegated from Ligue 1 in 2019 and finished sixth in Ligue 2 last season, with the club viewing this new ownership as a step toward long-term growth.
N’Golo Kanté and Royal Excelsior Virton Ownership
N’Golo Kanté purchased Belgian club Royal Excelsior Virton in June 2023.
He officially took over the club on 1 July 2023, coinciding with his move from Chelsea FC to Al-Ittihad Club. While financial details were not disclosed, the club confirmed it was debt-free at the time of purchase.
Royal Excelsior Virton plays in the Belgian National Division 1, two tiers below the top-flight Belgian Pro League, and has been working toward regaining its professional licence.
FAQs on Footballers Owning Football Clubs
Q. Which club did Cristiano Ronaldo invest in?
A. Cristiano Ronaldo invested in UD Almería by purchasing a 25 percent stake through CR7 Sports Investments.
Q. Which Belgian club is owned by N’Golo Kanté?
A. N’Golo Kanté owns Royal Excelsior Virton, which competes in Belgium’s third tier.
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