Football isn’t just about what happens on the pitch; it’s an industry shaped by a few key figures who are changing how the game operates, grows, and connects with fans around the world. Wonder who’s behind the scenes, making these moves? Here are six names you should know in football business—visionaries who aren’t just following trends but setting them.
1. Amanda Staveley – The Force Behind Newcastle United’s Big Reboot
When you think of club transformations, Amanda Staveley’s name stands out. She’s the one who spearheaded the Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United, a move that instantly turned Newcastle into one of the Premier League’s most financially powerful clubs. But here’s the thing: Staveley didn’t just make a flashy buy. She’s all about long-term growth, from developing the youth program to creating a more sustainable future for the club.
Staveley’s approach during her time at Newcastle displayed a unique blend of financial savvy and genuine passion for football. She invested in the club’s infrastructure, aiming to bring a winning culture back to the Magpies. If she’s inspired you, getting your education at The FBA could be just the start you need to make your mark in football. Here’s what she’s focused on:
- Youth Development – Building a pathway for local talent to reach the top.
- Top-notch Facilities – Enhancing Newcastle’s training and stadium facilities.
- Sustainable Growth – Focusing on community impact and club longevity.
- Engaging Fans – Creating a club identity that resonates with Newcastle’s loyal supporters.
2. Nasser Al-Khelaifi – Taking PSG Beyond Football
Paris Saint-Germain’s rise from a strong French club to a global brand? That’s Nasser Al-Khelaifi’s work. Under his leadership, Al-Khelaifi’s approach isn’t just about winning trophies; it’s about making PSG a brand that resonates worldwide.
His moves have made PSG into a club that:
- Attracts Global Superstars – Signing Neymar, Mbappé, and Messi was no accident.
- Expands into New Markets – PSG’s partnerships reach fans far beyond Europe.
- Diversifies its Brand – From fashion collabs to esports, PSG has a global appeal.
- Focuses on Community – Al-Khelaifi’s committed to the local community, too, supporting youth programs and local initiatives.
3. Andrea Radrizzani – Breathing New Life into Leeds United
If you’re a Leeds fan, you know the heartache of years spent outside the Premier League. When Andrea Radrizzani bought Leeds in 2017, he had one mission: bring Leeds back to glory. But he wasn’t just interested in short-term wins. Radrizzani’s focused on building a sustainable, fan-centred club that honours Leeds’ history and connects with its community.
So, what’s Radrizzani done for Leeds? It’s more than just putting the club back in the Premier League; he’s working on a bigger vision:
- Fan Engagement – Keeping fans in the loop, with transparency and community focus.
- Investment in Facilities – Radrizzani’s poured funds into upgrading club facilities.
- Smart Transfers – Investing in talent that fits the club’s long-term goals.
- Community Connection – Building local relationships, from charities to youth programs.
Radrizzani’s journey with Leeds may be over now, but he certainly made a massive impact during his tenure. Leeds fans will be hoping a return to the Premier League is on the cards under the new owners!
4. Florentino Pérez – The Man Behind Real Madrid’s “Galácticos”
Florentino Pérez needs no introduction if you’re a football fan. As Real Madrid’s President, he’s known for bringing in star players like Ronaldo, Beckham, and Zidane, creating the iconic “Galácticos” era that put Real Madrid on the map. Pérez has a vision: to make Real Madrid not just the best team in Spain but the most valuable club in the world.
Here’s how Pérez has changed the game at Real Madrid:
- Branding the “Galácticos” – Building a team of world-renowned players to boost global appeal.
- Expanding Revenue Streams – From sponsorships to digital engagement, Pérez has made Real Madrid a financial powerhouse.
- Modernizing Santiago Bernabéu – Transforming the stadium into a multi-use venue, ready for concerts and events.
- Embracing Innovation – Pushing the boundaries of what a football club can be in the entertainment industry.
With Pérez at the helm, Real Madrid has become much more than a football club—it’s a global brand.
5. Jorge Mendes – The Agent Behind the Superstars
You won’t see Jorge Mendes on the pitch, but you’ll see his influence everywhere in football. Mendes is the agent behind some of football’s biggest names – Cristiano Ronaldo, José Mourinho, and many others. But he’s more than just an agent; Mendes has a business-first approach that’s helped turn his clients into global icons.
So, how does Mendes shape football? Here’s a look:
- Strategic Career Planning – Mendes doesn’t just negotiate; he maps out entire careers.
- Building Brands – Helping players go beyond the game with sponsorships and endorsements.
- Spotting Talent Early – Mendes knows how to pick future stars before anyone else.
- Powerful Connections – His influence spans clubs, leagues, and even countries.
6. Peter Moore – The Gamer Who Took Liverpool to New Heights
Peter Moore might not be a traditional “football man,” but he was crucial to Liverpool’s success in his three years at the club. With a background in the gaming industry, Moore joined Liverpool as CEO in 2017 and brought fresh ideas on how to connect with fans in the digital era. His gaming experience? It turned out to be a huge asset, helping Liverpool reach fans worldwide through innovative online engagement and digital content.
Here’s what Moore brought to Liverpool:
- Digital Fan Engagement – Connecting with fans through social media and online content.
- Global Reach – Expanding Liverpool’s fan base with digital campaigns and branding.
- Community Initiatives – Focusing on Liverpool’s local community through charities and support programs.
- Innovative Sponsorships – Bringing in new, non-traditional partners that align with Liverpool’s image.
The New Era of Football Business
From creating community-driven clubs to building global brands, these leaders are setting the stage for a new era where football isn’t just a sport but a worldwide experience.
