Red Bull’s investment in Leeds United is “massive” and unprecedented in the EFL, according to Adam Pope.
The BBC journalist responded on Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet (3 June) to the announcement on 30 May that the drinks manufacturer had become a minority investor as well as the new long-term main shirt sponsor at Elland Road, reporting that all sources indicate the financial commitment is “unprecedented” for the Championship.
He recognized that there are some concerns among Whites fans about the possibility of future modifications to the club’s branding in light of the company’s past with other clubs such as Red Bull Salzburg, but emphasized that chairman Paraag Marathe has effectively provided his promise.
Pope stated (16m): “Interestingly, I believe he stated the number of changes that will be implemented if Leeds are promoted to the Premier League, and this is a significant [total]. I understand we don’t know the statistics, but we’ve been assured by all trustworthy sources that this is a large number, unprecedented in the Football League.
“So, in one way, you credit the club for attracting the investment from all of the other investors. What exactly did he say? It’s not as much as some of the investors, but more than a few of them? So it’s really big.”
Regarding Marathe’s position, he stated, “So far, you have to admit, the 49ers have quietly delivered on what they said they would do. So, would he be so crass and ignorant as to squander away all of his excellent work and the trust that has been built up by saying something he did not mean?”
Paraag Marathe and 49ers remain in charge at Leeds United.
The arrival of Red Bull may cause controversy among fans, as seen by concerns raised by the Leeds United Supports Trust (31 March).
However, based on Marathe’s promises that there are no plans to modify the club’s name, colours, or badge, the move appears to be a positive one.
Failure to return to the Premier League at the first attempt is widely predicted to cost Daniel Farke a number of his key players.
In an era when revenue streams and the spending they allow a club to make are becoming increasingly important, the Whites should have a better chance of securing promotion if they can direct unique investment at this level into the team while also dealing with the legacy of the Andrea Radrizzani years.
A football scene in which everything may be justified on the basis of the necessity to remain competitive in accordance with profit and sustainability criteria already makes many fans uncomfortable.
In the short term, it should help Leeds maintain a good place in the second tier despite the disappointment of the play-off final defeat, however the proof will come much later in the form of prospective adjustments in line with clubs owned by Red Bull.
And, while the beverages company may not be the most popular addition to Elland Road, it might be lot worse, as beaten Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund revealed a new deal with an arms manufacturer immediately following the Whites’ construction [New York Times, 1 June].
