There are reports (possibly just a massive rumor but it’s a slow news day anyways) circling the web that the spawns of New York Yankees legendary owner, George Steinbrenner, want a piece of the Tottenham pie. I don’t know how I feel about this, honestly speaking. We’ve all seen American tycoons come into the Premier League and pretty much destroy whatever they laid a finger on (i.e. Liverpool, Man U). The only American running things in the proper manner at this point is Ellis Short, owner of Sunderland AFC.
The reason the Yanks struggle with European football ownership is that sports organizations, marketing and operations in the US are completely different in comparison to Europe. They do such a great job with their NFL and NBA teams or what not, and automatically think they can take over European football soccer with their Yankee-Doodle ways. Unfortunately for them (fortunately for us), it’s never a walk in the park.
If the Yankees want to invest money in Tottenham, that’s fine with me. It could give us the perfect push to remain in Top 4, provide us with the funds to purchase players who are normally out of our league, and lastly, state our intent to challenge for all competitions year-in year-out. If they want to buy Tottenham and run it themselves, then a big NO THANKS! Don’t do it Levy!
How do you feel about this potential deal / rumor?
Tags: Daniel Levy, Ellis Short, English Premier League, European Football, Football Investment, George Steinbrenner, New York Yankees, Soccer, Sunderland AFC, Team Ownership, Tottenham Hotspur, USA
July 18, 2010 at 5:08 pm |
You forgot Randy Lerner at Villa who has behaved very well during his ownership.
But I take your point, there is no guarrantee that he won’t suddenly get bored with his plaything and sell to the highest bidder whoever they might be.
Real solution is for the club to be owned by its fans (Barcelona and Real Madrid and many German clubs) and to meet special financial rules that prevent the kind of abuse suffered at Utd. and Liverpool.
July 19, 2010 at 12:54 pm |
Thank’s JimmyG2 for the “Villa” info. Never knew an American owned them.
The solution of fans assuming club ownership is something I am all for. How much of a stake in the club in exchange for a “pinky”?
July 21, 2010 at 5:55 pm |
I am a diehard fan of both the New York Yankees and Tottenham Hotspur who lives in the New York City area (yes, I’m going to the exhibition with Red Bull NY). I know American ownership has been a mixed bag in the EPL, but I can assure you this would be the greatest thing that could happen to Spurs. The Steinbrenner family is about winning and never hesitates to spend whatever is required to acquire the necessary talent. Steinbrenner ownership will put Spurs on equal financial footing with the top clubs and allow Spurs to compete for top talent. Unlike their father, Hank and Hal have also allowed the baseball people to make the personnel decisions within the budget, and you may rest assured that Harry will have the same leeway. They successfully built an incredible new stadium that brings in substantial revenue – somehtig that is needed given the limitations of the Lane.
July 22, 2010 at 4:08 pm |
mikeB: Welcome to I Bleed Hotspur!
I don’t doubt for one second that the Steinbrenner boys are savvy businessmen; especially in the sports world. I am a bit weary though that they could possibly do a better job than Levy. If they are willing to come in and invest money into the organization to help grow the club, then I’m all for it! But again, what do I know? LOL
COYS!
July 22, 2010 at 9:28 pm |
I grew up in America and was bred on baseball and Americn football. What we call soccer came later. Trust me on this one. If the Steinbrenners come, the financial investment will put Spurs on par with anyone. Joe cole won’t go to Liverpool because we were outbid.
Forbes just came out with its list of the most valuable sports franchises in the world. The New York Yankees are #3 behind Man U and teh Dallas Cowboys.
July 23, 2010 at 10:56 am |
I definitely can’t disagree with what you’re saying. The Yankees are a powerhouse brand and sports franchise.