The reported deal that would transfer ownership of English Premier League club Leeds United to San Francisco 49ers Enterprises is now official.
Leeds United announced on Monday that the EFL has approved the sale of the club to 49ers Enterprises. Current 49ers President Paraag Marathe will now oversee the day-to-day operations of the soccer team while his role with San Francisco remains the same.
“This is an important moment for Leeds United and we are already hard at work. This transition is a necessary reset to chart a new course for the Club. We have already appointed a highly-respected First Team Manager with a track record of success, and we are confident Leeds will field a competitive squad to contend for promotion next season.
It’s a privilege to carry this torch as I know we have a responsibility to ensure this Club makes our staff, players, supporters, and the Leeds and Yorkshire communities proud.”
New Leeds United Chairman Paraag Marathe said in a statement
What is San Francisco 49ers Enterprises? A corporate venture capital arm of the NFL franchise
Leeds United has been a mess for some time. They have suffered through several relegations, multiple managers, and a few changes in owners over the years. However, there was hope for the side when they were promoted back into the English Premier League in 2020. Struggles have continued since.
The hope is that the success Marathe has had with the 49ers can translate overseas with Leeds United.
It’s also a continuation of Americans making a huge impact in European soccer. Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly was part of a consortium that purchased Chelsea in September.