For generations, footballers were defined by what they did on the pitch, scoring goals, winning trophies and entertaining millions. But a new trend is changing that narrative.
Some of the game’s biggest names are now stepping into ownership, using their wealth and experience to shape clubs from behind the scenes. What makes this shift even more striking is that many are doing it while still playing at the highest level.
From global icons to quiet investors, here are eight famous footballers who own football clubs, and what their involvement means for the game.
1. David Beckham — Inter Miami CF
David Beckham’s move into ownership is widely seen as the model for modern footballers. The former England captain is the president and co-owner of Inter Miami, a club he helped establish in Major League Soccer.
He secured the rights to create the franchise for $25 million in 2014, a deal that has since proved highly valuable. Today, Inter Miami is valued at over $1 billion, reflecting its rapid commercial growth and global appeal.
Beckham’s role goes beyond investment. He has helped shape the club’s identity and attract global attention, showing how footballers can successfully transition into long-term ownership.
2. Ronaldo Nazário — Real Valladolid
Ronaldo Nazário has taken one of the most direct routes into football ownership. In 2018, he became the majority owner of Real Valladolid after purchasing a controlling stake in the Spanish club.
He later bought a controlling interest in Cruzeiro, his boyhood club in Brazil, as part of efforts to restore stability during a difficult financial period.
Ronaldo’s involvement highlights the realities of ownership, combining passion with financial responsibility. His work has focused on restructuring clubs and improving their long-term sustainability.
3. Kylian Mbappé — SM Caen
Kylian Mbappé represents a new generation of footballers thinking beyond their playing careers. In 2024, he became the majority shareholder of SM Caen, acquiring around 80% of the club for an estimated €15–20 million.
The move made him one of the youngest active players to take control of a professional football club. It also reflected a growing trend of players investing in football while still competing.
Mbappé’s ownership is seen as both a business decision and a long-term project aimed at developing the club and improving its fortunes.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo — UD Almería
Cristiano Ronaldo entered club ownership in 2026, purchasing a 25% stake in Spanish side UD Almería through his company, CR7 Sports Investments.
The move places him within an existing ownership structure rather than as a sole owner. Despite this, his involvement has already increased the club’s global visibility, particularly on social media.
Ronaldo’s investment suggests he is preparing for a future in football beyond playing, adding club ownership to his expanding business interests.
5. Vinícius Júnior — FC Alverca
Vinícius Júnior joined the ownership movement in 2025, acquiring a majority stake, estimated between 70% and 80%, in Portuguese club FC Alverca as part of a consortium.
The investment marks a significant step for a player still in his prime. It highlights how younger stars are becoming increasingly involved in football’s business side.
Vinícius’ move reflects ambition beyond the pitch. By investing in a club, he is positioning himself as both a player and a long-term stakeholder in the sport’s development.
6. Luka Modrić — Swansea City
Luka Modrić joined the ownership group at Swansea City in April 2025, becoming a minority co-owner of the Championship club.
The investment does not affect his playing career, but it marks an important step into football ownership for the Croatian midfielder.
Modrić’s involvement reflects a growing trend of players taking smaller stakes as a way to gradually transition into life beyond football.
7. N'Golo Kanté — Royal Excelsior Virton
N’Golo Kanté became the owner of Belgian club Royal Excelsior Virton in 2023, taking full control of the team.
The club had been facing financial difficulties, and his acquisition brought stability and a clearer long-term direction.
Kanté’s approach reflects a quieter side of ownership, focused less on headlines and more on sustainability and development.
8. Gerard Piqué — FC Andorra
Gerard Piqué acquired FC Andorra in 2018 through his company, Kosmos, when the club was playing in Spain’s lower divisions.
Since then, the club has risen through the leagues into the professional tiers, reflecting a clear strategy and structured investment.
Piqué’s project shows how ownership can be used to rebuild and grow a club from the ground up.
9. Zlatan Ibrahimović — Hammarby IF
Zlatan Ibrahimović became a part-owner of Hammarby IF in 2019.
The move drew strong reactions, particularly from fans of Malmö FF, where he began his career.
Despite the controversy, Ibrahimović’s investment shows his desire to remain influential in football beyond his playing days.
10. The Class of ’92 — Salford City
Former Manchester United players including Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs are part of the ownership group at Salford City.
Since taking over in 2014, the group has guided the club from non-league football into the English Football League.
Their success is one of the clearest examples of how footballers can apply their experience to build and grow a club.
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