Leeds United set for ‘mega’ financial injection after controversial Red Bull investment
Red Bull’s investment at Leeds United is a “massive” number which is unheard of in the EFL, according to Adam Pope.
The BBC journalist reacted 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 acknowledged that there are some concerns among the Whites fanbase over the potential for future changes to the club’s branding in light of the company’s history at other clubs as Red Bull Salzburg, highlighting that chairman Paraag Marathe has essentially given his guarantee.
Pope said (16m): “Interestingly, I think, he said the number that they’re putting in changes if Leeds get into the Premier League, and this is a massive [figure]. I know we don’t know the numbers but we’re told from all credible sources that this is a big number, unprecedented in the Football League.
“So in that sense you applaud the club for bringing in the investment amongst all the other investors. What did he say? It’s not as much as some of the investors but bigger than a handfull of others? So it’s pretty mega.”
On Marathe’s position he added: “So far, you have to say, the 49ers have been quietly delivering on what they said they were going to do. So would he do something so crass and stupid as to go throw all that good work away, and that trust that has been built up, by saying something he didn’t mean?”
Paraag Marathe and 49ers remain in control at Leeds United
The arrival of Red Bull may be controversial within the fanbase, as shown by concerns directed to the club by the Leeds United Supports Trust (31 March).
But based on Marathe’s assurances that there are no plans for changes to the club’s name, colours, or badge it appears to be a positive move.
Failure to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking is widely expected to mean Daniel Farke loses a number of his star players.
In an age where revenue streams and the spending they allow a club to make are becoming all the more important it should, in theory, give the Whites a greater chance of securing promotion if they can direct unique investment at this level into the team and dealing with the legacy of the Andrea Radrizzani era.
A football landscape where anything can be justified on the basis of a need to stay competitive according to profit and sustainability regulations is one that makes plenty of fans uncomfortable as it is.
In the short term it should help Leeds stay in a strong position in the second tier despite the disappointment of the play-off final defeat, although admittedly the proof will be in actions much further down the road when it comes to potential changes in line with clubs where Red Bull are owners.
And while the drinks giant might not be the most popular arrival at Elland Road it surely could be so much worse when beaten Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund announced a new deal with an arms manufacturer straight after the Whites’ development [New York Times, 1 June].
In other Leeds United news, the Whites want to snap up a key target in what would be a “big blow” to his current manager.
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