John Textor, the American digital entrepreneur and sports investor, is poised to make a monumental leap in his football portfolio by becoming the new owner of Everton FC. Textor, who has described the potential acquisition as being akin to becoming the President of the United States, confirmed his intention to sell his 45 percent stake in Crystal Palace to pursue a relationship with the Merseyside club. His arrival could mark the beginning of a new era for Everton, a club in desperate need of stability after several turbulent seasons under Farhad Moshiri.
The End of the Moshiri Era
Farhad Moshiri took over in 2016, bringing with him lofty ambitions to challenge the Premier League’s elite. However, despite significant spending on players and a new stadium project at Bramley-Moore Dock, Everton has struggled to translate investment into performance on the pitch. The club narrowly avoided relegation in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, raising serious concerns about the future direction of the club.
Moshiri’s desire to exit the club has opened the door for a new owner to step in and turn things around. Enter John Textor, a man with grand visions and a track record of sports investment across the globe.
John Textor: A Digital Entrepreneur
John Textor’s background is rooted in digital technology, where he made his fortune through innovative ventures, particularly in visual effects and artificial intelligence. However, it is in the world of football where he has truly expanded his influence, particularly in Europe and South America.
In 2022, Textor acquired a significant stake in Olympique Lyonnais, the French football powerhouse, and became the majority shareholder of Brazilian club Botafogo. His involvement with Crystal Palace, alongside co-owners Steve Parish and Joshua Harris, showcased his intent to build a network of clubs in different leagues.
His ambition with Everton would be no different. He envisions transforming the club into a modern footballing powerhouse by harnessing the club’s passionate fan base and community while implementing the infrastructure necessary for long-term success. Textor’s decision to sell his stake in Crystal Palace signals the seriousness of his intentions to focus solely on Everton.
Textor’s to Pursuit Everton
Everton, a club steeped in history with a loyal and fervent fanbase, has become a sleeping giant in English football. Despite its struggles in recent years, the club offers immense potential for a new owner. The ongoing construction of Everton’s new state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock is a key attraction, with Textor recognizing the opportunity to build a successful footballing brand on the back of this transformative project.
Textor’s sees Everton as a challenge worth taking, signifying the immense responsibility and honor of overseeing one of England’s most historic football clubs.
John’s Vision for Everton
John Textor has made it clear that his primary focus is on creating a sustainable, community-driven club. His previous statements about pursuing a relationship with the “Everton club and community” highlight his recognition of the important role fans and the local population play in the club’s identity. Unlike other investors who may view club ownership as a purely commercial venture, Textor appears committed to engaging with Everton’s core values and culture.
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