Liverpool owners FSG 'make dramatic U-turn' on multi-club model after looking at 25 teams
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Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesFSGLiverpool owners FSG have reportedly cooled their interest in acquiring another soccer team after extensive research was undertaken on around 25 clubs across EuropeLiverpool owner and FSG chief John W. Henry.(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)Fenway Sports Group (FSG) has so far been unable to move forward with plans to buy a second soccer team alongside Liverpool, despite extensive research on identifying potential options.According to The Athletic, after possible deals for Bordeaux, Malaga and Getafe didn't go anywhere — in addition to the potential of having a minority stake in AS Monaco — FSG has cooled its plan with regards to moving towards a multi-club model.Sources have told Liverpool.com that FSG is still open to investing in another soccer team.
The Athletic report, though, suggests that the slow progress has proven frustrating for Michael Edwards.READ MORE: PSG statement confirms major injury worry before Liverpool tie in Champions LeagueREAD MORE: PSG could get major advantage over Liverpool as postponement option emergesWhen Edwards returned to the fold in 2024, a key part of his remit was to identify — and eventually run — a second team. It was thought this was a key appeal for the 46-year-old in coming back to work with the Anfield side."One of the biggest factors in my decision is the commitment to acquire and oversee an additional club, growing this area of their organization," Edwards said two years ago."I believe that to remain competitive, investment and expansion of the current football portfolio is necessary."Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG's CEO of football Michael Edwards(Image: Getty Images)Multi-club ownership means sharing resources and having a place for young players to develop, similar to how Chelsea and Strasbourg operate, while Liverpool has long held admiration for the Red Bull group.A move to acquire a stake in Monaco would have been complicated due to a lack of clarity from UEFA over whether both the Ligue 1 side and Liverpool could play in the Champions League at the same time.Similar issues have unfolded elsewhere like when Lyon owner John Textor exited Crystal Palace last year amid concerns over UEFA competitions.Multi-club ownership is controversial, but the view taken by many leading clubs around the world is that they can't afford to be left behind, given the advantages that it can bring.Get LFC's 2025/26 season home and away kitsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.
There is also a benefit in ensuring that you have greater control over how loan players are used.There has been no movement on the addition of another soccer club to the FSG roster since December. Reports this week have linked sporting director Richard Hughes with a move to the Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.Edwards, Hughes and Arne Slot will all only have one year left on their contracts this summer.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCFSGMichael Edwards