IMAGO

18 August 2023 - 4:30 PM

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IMAGO | The Champions League finale between Inter and Manchester City.

Finnish billionaire unveils bold football ownership approach: Fan co-ownership, respect for clubs’ global fans and profitability

  • He garnered global attention with a bid for Manchester United in March. While he later withdrew from the Red Devils' race, Thomas Zilliacus is now poised to make significant investments in football clubs.
  • Although his primary focus is on Inter, Zilliacus may consider other acquisitions, including the creation of an MCO. He believes he possesses a "magic ingredient" that could boost revenues and bridge the gap between global fans and their favorite clubs.
  • Why it matters: If he succeeds in acquiring a football club, Thomas Zilliacus will stand out from the rest. As a businessman, he has always engaged with stakeholders across platforms and rejects the notion of a discreet business attitude in football.
  • The perspective: Major clubs worldwide are targeting their global fan bases with content. Zilliacus approaches this differently, asserting that it's time to show global fans the respect they deserve, which would also benefit local fans.

"For now, Inter Milan remains my primary target. It's a massive club with enormous potential for success on and off the pitch. Yes, I hope to become the owner someday, but it takes two to tango."

If anyone assumed that Thomas Zilliacus, the Finnish billionaire with a background in tech and politics, had turned his back on the football industry after his failed bid for Manchester United in March, they would be mistaken.<

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