“We don’t need a billionaire”: Brazilian debt-free club seeks investor to spearhead global dominance
IMAGO | Mario Celso Petraglia, the CEO of Athletico Paranaense.
In the landscape of Brazilian football, Club Athletico Paranaense stands out as a remarkable anomaly. Their consistent victories, positive cash flows, absence of debt, stable management, and well-defined strategy make them truly unique.
Like many other clubs, they're transitioning into a private entity, seeking investors to fuel future growth and elevate themselves as the premier global talent developer and seller.
Why it matters: This summer, Athletico Paranaense sold Vitor Roque to FC Barcelona for a staggering €61 million. The past quarter-century, they've generated $600 million from player transfers and aim to enhance their profitable model with a new co-owner.
The perspective: Mario Celso Petraglia, the CEO of Athletico-PR, is renowned for transforming the club from obscurity into a continental powerhouse. As he assumes a new role in the future, it raises questions about the club's direction and stability.
8 September 2023 - 3:30 PM
Summarizing the distinctiveness of a football club to outsiders is no small feat. In the case of Club Athletico Paranaense, one could highlight their crowning achievement – the 2019 Copa do Brasil title, a moment that brought tears of joy to countless fans.
Another lens to view their uniqueness is through financial metrics, where Athletico Paranaense stands out remarkably. Their prudent management has resulted in low debt levels and robust cash flows, a rarity in Brazilian foot
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