Liverpool Owners FSG Eyes Malaga Acquisition, Fans React with Concern
Liverpool fans are expressing shock and concern after reports emerged suggesting Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool Football Club, are exploring the purchase of Spanish side Malaga. This news, broken by prominent football journalist David Ornstein, has ignited debate amongst supporters, particularly regarding FSG’s priorities and commitment to Anfield.
If the acquisition of Malaga materializes, the club, currently playing in the Spanish third tier (Segunda División RFEF), would become the fourth sports franchise under the FSG umbrella. The American group already boasts a diverse portfolio including:
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- Liverpool Football Club (Premier League)
- Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)
Malaga’s recent history has been turbulent. After a decade-long stint in La Liga, they were relegated in 2018. Further disappointment followed in 2023 with relegation to the third division after a defeat to Alavés.
David Ornstein, a respected journalist for The Athletic, broke the news via social media platform X, stating: “Liverpool owners FSG exploring purchase of Spanish club Malaga.”
Ornstein further revealed that FSG representatives conducted site visits to Malaga’s facilities in February, indicating serious consideration of the purchase as part of a multi-club ownership model. The initial focus is reportedly on acquiring a majority stake – 51% – from current shareholder Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani.
According to Ornstein’s report, FSG is open to various forms of investment, but their primary goal is to inject sufficient capital to positively impact Malaga’s football operations. This suggests a potential strategy of developing Malaga as part of a broader FSG football network.
Fan Reactions: Divided Loyalties and Contract Concerns
The revelation of FSG’s interest in Malaga has sparked a wave of reactions from Liverpool supporters online. While some fans have reacted with humor, others have voiced concerns regarding resource allocation and FSG’s focus given ongoing situations at Liverpool.
One fan jokingly commented on social media:
“Building a Malaga super team to deny Trent silverware at Madrid? John W Henry you little dancer.”
Liverpool fans protesting against FSG’s stance on Mo Salah’s contract- Getty
However, beneath the humor, a palpable unease is evident in fan sentiment. Many Liverpool supporters question the timing of this potential acquisition, particularly as contract negotiations with key players are reportedly ongoing and perceived by some as slow-moving.
Common fan concerns include:
- Diluted Focus: “Can’t even run Liverpool successfully but already looking to buy another club?”
- Contract Neglect: “Can’t even sort three contracts out and now this?”
- Player Departures: “And they don’t want to renew Liverpool’s key players….I’m sorry but the remaining two will leave.”
- Prioritization Concerns: “These guys want to buy a club but won’t sort out our contract issues.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Football, Premier League, La Liga
What do you think about FSG potentially buying Malaga? Does it worry you as a Liverpool fan? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!