Paul Robinson applauded the timing of Red Bull’s investment announcement at Leeds United, which came after Daniel Farke’s team missed out on promotion.
Leeds lost 1-0 in the Championship play-off final on Sunday, May 26, thanks to a single Adam Armstrong goal, and the club announced just four days later that Red Bull would be the shirt sponsor for next season.
As minority shareholders at Elland Road, the global soft drink corporation will have limited say in decisions but will inject much-needed funds into the club, which Robinson is happy about.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he stated: “Any cash boost or incentive is beneficial. Being the jersey sponsor next season will be a significant boost with a world-renowned firm the scale of Red Bull entering the club, in addition to the cash injection, as the extent of the share remains unknown.
“Having a firm like that, which has expertise running top-flight football clubs and other sports, and given their success in motor racing, having another arm, another branch of investment of that level, can only be beneficial to the club.
“Any form of investment that comes into the club is typically regarded positively, although when compared to other clubs, investment has not been as beneficial. However, companies with structure and solidity, such as Red Bull, are entering the market for the right reasons.
“You’re not getting the unknown; you’re not getting an owner who comes in and waves millions around. You are getting a well-known, structured organization. I simply believe it is a significant step forward for the club, especially given the disappointment of the play-off final.
“The announcement was timed well. I guess there was some light at the end of the tunnel. This type of investment is only going to help the club.”
Leeds United given a financial boost following Championship play-off sorrow
As Robinson points out, the news could not have come at a better moment, allowing people to relax following the heartbreak at Wembley Stadium last month.
The club’s financial status was a major concern if they were unable to regain promotion to the Premier League this season, but Red Bull’s investment will undoubtedly help to some extent.
Some elite players are still expected to leave Elland Road, but the situation with money and players will be less grave following the cash injection from the worldwide brand.
