Which English Premier League clubs are American-owned? 🇺🇸

Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in investment firms, private investors, and consortiums from the United States investing in European football clubs.

In the English Football League, over a third of the 92 teams have some form of American ownership.

Buying football clubs has become the pastime for Hollywood actors, with Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds (Wrexham), Tom Brady (Birmingham City) and Michael B. Jordan (Bournemouth) all taking stakes in English "soccer" teams.

In the Premier League, should American investment group 777 Partners finalise their takeover of Everton Football Club, almost 50% of English Premier League clubs will be American-owned.

In Europe, there are 40 American-owned football clubs, with that number set to rise in the coming years.

But which Premier League clubs are owned by American owners, and who are they?

Which English Premier League clubs are owned by American owners?

Arsenal

Owners: Stan Kroenke and Kroenke Sports Group

Takeover date: 2007

Stan Kroenke's takeover of Arsenal was officially completed in 2007. The Kroenke's have had a tumultuous relationship with Arsenal fans over the years, which hit a low during Arsenal's involvement in the failed European Super League. The relationship has been somewhat repaired of late, driven by the club's success under Mikel Arteta, but the Kroenke's serve as a warning to future American owners to not make decisions without fan involvement.

Aston Villa

Owners: Wesley Edens and Nassef Sawiris (V Sports)

Takeover date: July 2018

Aston Villa after they were relegated from the Premier League in 2016. After two seasons in the Championship, English football's second tier, V Sports completed a takeover in the hope of securing promotion back to the Premier League. They succeeded in their first season in charge, almost doubling or tripling the value of their investment. With some smart player acquisitions and managerial appointments, it's safe to say that V Sports are fairly popular figures at Villa Park.

Bournemouth

Owner: Bill Foley & Michael B. Jordan

Takeover date: 2022

Bournemouth's American owner Bill Foley took over Bournemouth in 2022, with the club regaining their Premier League status. Foley, an assured businessman, assembled an investment consortium which included Creed and Black Panther actor Michael B. Jordan. The appointment of Andoni Iraola from Rayo Vallecano has been hailed by fans and pundits as 'genius', with Bournemouth on track for the highest finish in their history.

Burnley

Owner: ALK Capital (chairman Alan Pace)

Takeover date: 2020

Ownership Summary: Alan Pace’s ALK Capital acquired a controlling stake in Burnley FC amidst expectations of injecting fresh capital and ideas into the club. The takeover has received a cautious reception from fans, primarily due to concerns over the long-term intentions of the American owners and the use of debt in the acquisition, mirroring concerns seen at other clubs with similar ownership structures. On the field, Burnley has faced challenges, including a relegation battle, raising questions about the effectiveness of the new ownership in strengthening the squad to compete in the Premier League.

Chelsea

Owner: Todd Boelhy & Clearlake Capital

Takeover date: 2022

Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital took control of Chelsea in a high-profile acquisition following the forced sale by Roman Abramovich due to sanctions. The new ownership has been very active in the transfer market, spending over £1 billion on player signings, signalling a commitment to maintaining Chelsea’s competitive status at the highest levels of football. However, the massive spending has also led to scrutiny regarding the sustainable management and long-term strategy of the club. Initial fan reactions have been mixed, with some appreciating the ambition shown through investment, while others are wary of potential financial repercussions and the lack of stability in managerial positions.

Crystal Palace

Owners: John Textor (majority owner), Josh Harris, David Blitzer, Steve Parish

Takeover date: 2021

The American investors at Crystal Palace are part of a larger consortium but have significant influence. Their tenure has seen the club maintain Premier League status, focusing on stability rather than top-tier success. Fan reactions have been cautiously optimistic, appreciating the financial stability brought by the owners.

Everton

Owner: Farhad Moshiri (not American) but soon-to-be acquired by American firm 777 Partners

The American investment firm 777 Partners became involved with Everton by giving the Merseyside club a significant loan whilst the takeover is ratified, aiming to bolster the club's financial resources after losing funding due to EU sanctions on Everton's secret Russian backers. The takeover is still ongoing, but it is expected to be fully completed in 2024.

Fulham

Owner: Shahid Khan

Takeover date: 2013

Shahid Khan, also the owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL, has seen a mixed reaction from Fulham fans. While appreciative of his investment in the club and facilities, fans have been critical of the team's yo-yo-ing between the Premier League and Championship. However, the intent to maintain top-flight status and improve club infrastructure has been clear.

Liverpool

Fenway Sports Group (John W. Henry)

Takeover date: 2010

Ownership Summary: Since Fenway Sports Group took over Liverpool, the club has seen a significant turnaround. The owners have been praised for their smart investments in players and infrastructure, including the expansion of Anfield. Under their ownership, Liverpool ended a 30-year league title drought by winning the Premier League in the 2019-2020 season under manager Jürgen Klopp. Fan sentiment has generally been positive, however, the club was embroiled in the European Super League scandal which saw fans protest on the streets.

Takeover date: 2010

Manchester United

Owner: Avram and Joel Glazer

Takeover date: 2005

The Glazer family, through their company Red Football Shareholder Limited, completed a leveraged takeover of Manchester United in 2005. The takeover was controversial due to the heavy debt it placed on the club, which has led to significant fan protests over the years, including vocal campaigns and match disruptions. On the field, the club has experienced mixed fortunes, including Premier League titles initially but a decline in performance and consistency in recent years.

With American investment increasing dramatically in the English Premier League, fans have remained defiant in reminding their Stateside owners about how engrained football clubs are in English culture and tradition.

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