The Athletic FC Podcast What makes a good Premier League owner?
Mar 26, 2026
Andy Mitten, longtime Manchester United commentator and fanzine editor, offers fan-focused context. Matt Slater, football journalist and Athletic contributor, explains ownership models and investment logic. They discuss varied Premier League owners, Manchester United’s hybrid control, why spending must fund infrastructure as well as players, and which ownership styles win fan trust.
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Premier League Ownership Is Deeply Diverse
- Ownership types in the Premier League vary widely from US billionaires to sovereign wealth funds and legacy local owners.
- Matt Slater lists ten US-owned clubs, Saudi and Abu Dhabi sovereign owners, and unique hybrid cases like Manchester United under Glazer/Ineos influence.
Invest Beyond Transfers For Long Term Success
- Invest across the club not just the squad to create sustainable success.
- Matt Slater recommends spending on stadiums, training grounds, scouting, health and digital fan touchpoints rather than only transfer fees.
Derby Example Shows Investment Isn't A Guarantee
- Wealthy benefactors can burn goodwill if promotion targets aren't met; Andy Mitten cites Mel Morris at Derby County.
- Morris poured money in, nearly reached the Premier League, then popularity fell when the ultimate target failed.