Aston Villa have announced that V Sports, our ownership group, have entered into an agreement with strategic investment company Atairos.
There has been plenty of activity from owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens in recent months, most notably with new agreements with clubs around the world as they build an expanding network.
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However, this is potentially another important step towards building a sustainable and more competitive club moving forward, as we continue to try and raise our level both on and off the pitch.
As per the club’s statement, V Sports and Atairos have entered into an agreement where the latter will become a minority partner, but it’s stressed that V Sports will continue to 100 percent own Villa and will have full say in our decision-making moving forward.
In terms of what role Atairos will play, it’s added that their investment capital will be focused on growth and infrastructure investments across the network, and that they will play a key role in the next phase of V Sports’ progression and ambitious plans.
Nassef Sawiris and Wesley Edens said: “V Sports is delighted to be partnering with a long-term strategic investor in Atairos who shares our compelling vision for the future of the Club and our passion for football. This exciting partnership enhances the Club’s financial footing and strengthens its ability to compete in England and in Europe. V Sports is fully committed to further investment in Aston Villa FC and its men’s and women’s teams and looks forward to its continued growth and success.”
Naturally, time will tell what tangible impact it makes as we await further developments and planning, but given the stellar job that Sawiris and Edens have done while at the helm thus far, it’s hopefully another sensible and promising decision from ownership that will improve our ability to compete both commercially and from a sporting standpoint.
From promotion from the Championship to solidifying our place in the Premier League in the past five years, to now competing at the top end of the table and returning to Europe, with the future looking bright under Unai Emery.
It’s important that ownership continue to build on this progression and don’t allow the club to stand still, and hopefully this new partnership with Atairos will play a key part in taking that next step.