FSG’s Purchase of Bordeaux Can Only Help Liverpool – Opinion | OneFootball

FSG’s Purchase of Bordeaux Can Only Help Liverpool

It became abundantly clear that once Michael Edwards was installed as the new CEO of Liverpool Football Club, it was with the promise from his employers (FSG) that certain conditions would be met to grow the world-renowned franchise. After initially stepping away a couple of seasons ago, the former Sporting Director appeared to spend his time preparing for his next role in the game, whilst keeping close ties to his American based associates and other persons m related to the Anfield club.

I would appear that the likes of John W Henry and Mike Gordon had assured Edwards that once the illustrious Jürgen Klopp stepped away from his role as manager, that certain promises would be delivered to him lure back and into an untouchable level of power.

Michael Edwards’ Return

There was of course heavy speculation many months ago, that had the Southampton born operator refusing to entertain a return to Anfield, following Klopp’s public resignation. I believe that story was purposely leaked to give the impression that the Fenway Sports Group were being reactive, instead of pulling the trigger on a deal which was already in the works. Ultimately, there would have been multiple conditions laid out by each party, to secure the return of the 44-year-old to the club he once excelled at.

X: @FrancoisPlateau

Alongside greater control of operations and the ability to name his own Head Coach and Sporting Director, there was evidently a desire to implement a multi-club model under the owner’s already vast umbrella. Swirling around the Merseyside gossip pages this past week, has been reliable reports stating that French Ligue 2 side, Bordeaux, could well be acquired by the Liverpool ownership group, thereby becoming the next club to join the fold.

As a well-placed entity within Europe, it is a tantalising thought to imagine the well-respected Bordeaux group becoming part of the reds multi-club model. With a tremendous stadium and deep level of support, there seems to be little downside to the purchase of a team that has fallen away in recent years.

As it stands, the current manager is none other the former Anfield winger, Albert Riera, who has a growing reputation as an outstanding young coach. His rise to prominence has emerged having achieved his coaching badges alongside former teammate and fellow Spaniard, Xabi Alonso, one who was of course linked to reds return before the appointment of Feyenoord’s Arnie Slot.

The Impact of FSG’s Bordeaux Move

I have seen negativity stem from certain sections of the fanbase, who assume that the purchase of a second club will somehow affect the finances of Liverpool FC. To clarify that point, one football club cannot purchase another and FSG will be using their own financing to bid on the French football club. The purchase would offer long-term benefits for both institutions, as part of an elite enterprise run by the very best footballing decision makers.

Photo: IMAGO

The ability to replicate some of the great undertakings observed in the Red Bull GmbH (including Leipzig & Salzburg), will appeal to all, and enable opportunities to attract promising young players into a secondary club that may offer first team opportunities before a move to an elite team. With consistency in coaching and approach, there can be huge development opportunities for players and staff alike. It is often difficult to source the correct loan setting for individuals of high regard, something that could be coordinated within a model such as this. The uncertainty and confusion in change is understandable, however, this would be misguided.

It must be said that Bordeaux would not become a feeder club, but a team that could grow and become successful alongside the Merseyside giants. Of course, the opportunity to secure brilliant assets can be utilised and the ability to invest in young French talents will be enhanced. The process will almost be under the radar as each team operates accordingly, with only minor affiliations arriving in bespoke situations. The long-term goal is clear and it will safe guard both set of players and place the relative supporting groups into the hands of a footballing building genius, Michael Edwards. The future of the game is an ever-changing landscape that requires forward thinking and ingenuity, which was once a major Liverpool facet admired by all, whilst under the watch of the reds new CEO.

Much like with any period, patience is required and with the established stewardship now firmly in place, any fear should be replaced with delightful expectation, as we could be about to see a whole new era of sporting innovation.