The world of football is often revisited by legends of the past, who made their mark on the pitch. Their second coming is often in the form of management, and the player’s on this list have gone on to become owners of established football clubs.
5. Didier Drogba – Phoenix Rising FC
The Chelsea legend was recruited by Phoenix Rising in 2017 to play in the second division of American football, and he is the first name in history to become a player-owner of a club. The Arizona-based franchise is the state’s best club yet.
4. Paolo Maldini – Miami FC
Italy and AC Milan icon Paolo Maldini is not only a part of the Rossoneri management, but also owns 50% of Miami FC alongside Ricardo Silva. The Italian is responsible for the sporting side of the club, and has set them up to win several trophies over the last few years.
3. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – Hammarby IF
Running close to 40, Ibrahimovic still plays in the Champions League with AC Milan. The striker also owns 23.5% stakes of Hammarby IF, a club in Sweden that represents the people of Stockholm. He bought 50% shares of Anschutz Entertainment Group, the owner of LA Galaxy in 2019.
2. Ronaldo Nazario – Real Valladolid
The phenomenon returned to La Liga in 2018, and bought 51% stakes of the club for €30 million. He is now the majority owner of the club and is also the president of the board of directors. Ronaldo currently owns 82% stakes of the club.
1. David Beckham – Inter Miami CF
After establishing himself as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, David Beckham owns not only Inter Miami, but also a share of Salford City. He was given the option to buy a club in MLS from his transfer to LA Galaxy in 2007, and exercised that option in 2014 to buy Inter Miami for €25 million. The franchise debuted in 2020 after getting the stadium completed.
