Football BaBe
John Textor’s Bold Vision: Transforming French Football with Premier League Flair Amid Ligue 1 Turmoil
In the ever-evolving world of global football, John Textor, the ambitious owner of Eagle Football Group, has sparked intense debates with his critiques of Ligue 1‘s governance and his plans for multi-club management. Drawing from his experiences with Lyon and Botafogo, Textor envisions a more dynamic, revenue-driven model inspired by the English Premier League, challenging traditional French regulations while navigating financial controversies. This fresh perspective highlights ongoing shifts in European and South American football landscapes, where recent data from Deloitte’s Football Money League shows top clubs generating over €10 billion in revenue collectively in 2023, underscoring the potential for innovative structures like Textor’s.
- Textor aimed for a ‘Premier League approach’ in French football
- Heavily criticized the unchecked authority of DNCG
- Outlined intentions to detach Botafogo from his broader enterprise
John Textor’s Critique of Ligue 1 Governance and DNCG Practices
The ex-Lyon leader and Eagle Football Group executive opened up about key challenges involving Lyon, the financial oversight body DNCG, and Botafogo. He dismissed allegations that Lyon was bankrolling Botafogo’s achievements, emphasizing that the Brazilian outfit’s strong earnings often bolstered the unprofitable ventures in France. Following Lyon’s temporary drop to Ligue 2 and subsequent return to the top tier-a saga that stripped Textor of his operational control-the Eagle chief has openly expressed frustration with French soccer’s regulatory framework.
Concerns from France’s financial regulator about Lyon’s economic health sparked disputes over operations, resulting in a demotion to Ligue 2. The DNCG demanded solid proof of fiscal stability, which the U.S. entrepreneur couldn’t deliver promptly. Textor challenged this ruling, accusing the body of opacity and adapting regulations on a whim. This prompted his withdrawal from leadership, paving the way for Michele Kang to step in, rebuild credibility, and secure the club’s Ligue 1 spot. Ever since, Textor has been outspoken about his dissatisfaction with how French football manages affairs. Rumors also circulated that he was channeling Lyon’s resources to fuel Botafogo’s rise, which he firmly denied.
Debunking Financial Myths: Botafogo’s Role in Supporting European Operations
In response to accusations of Lyon subsidizing Botafogo, Textor clarified: “Let me set the record straight for all. Botafogo brings in substantial income and covers many of Lyon’s deficit-running activities. Those French reports suggesting Lyon bankrolled Botafogo’s championships are simply untrue. Our profits come from trophies, transferring players, and our know-how. It’s Botafogo that backs Europe, not vice versa. As a group audited by top firms, we’ve prepared for public listing; there’s no room for doubt. No fiscal issues exist. We sustain Europe. I’m pushing to isolate Botafogo from the European side, though the final call rests with the Eagle board.”
Pushing for Premier League Reforms in French Football Amid DNCG Disputes
Discussing his goals for French soccer and views on DNCG, the Botafogo proprietor noted: “I admit I erred in France by trying to drive reforms. The league faces deep issues, with the federation eyeing control over the competition. A single individual leads DNCG with immense influence. Rules aren’t straightforward; decisions feel random. France sought a makeover but grew weary of my reform talks. My aim was to introduce a Premier League-style system, free from DNCG oversight. I stepped aside willingly, recognizing I was the obstacle. I stayed silent to let Michele Kang succeed in the appeal. Personal pride and stances were irrelevant. Our finances have always been solid; UEFA gave us the green light. On May 20, DNCG assured me demotion wasn’t on the table. What shifted by June? Clearly, it was my presence.”
Strategic Shifts: Plans for Botafogo’s Independence from Eagle Football Group
On the topic of decoupling Botafogo from Eagle Football, Textor shared: “Michele can handle France while I focus on Brazil. We’re like family. No fears here. I haven’t sought assistance. My goal is to acquire Botafogo fully and remove it from Eagle. I’ll retain ownership of Eagle, but separating Botafogo seems optimal. Certain European alliances could benefit the club more. When sales are in play, advisors suggest stepping back to dodge conflicts. It’s all dialogue. A cordial discussion. I’m in talks with Eagle’s leadership, which I own. The question is whether to manage our club alongside Lyon or independently. It’s an internal family chat.”
Future Focus: Enhancing Autonomy in Multi-Club Models
With his hands-off approach at Lyon, Textor seems intent on channeling energy into Botafogo. His push to unlink the Brazilian side from the Eagle Football Group points to a possible overhaul in his ownership strategy across clubs. Framed as an amicable talk with the board he mostly selected, this could lead to increased independence for Botafogo, aligning with trends where clubs like those in the City Football Group have seen revenue growth of 15% annually, as per recent UEFA reports, through diversified operations.
