American investment in English football is surging, according to Sky Sports. This growth coincides with the upcoming World Cup, which is set to take place in the United States this summer. As of the 2025/26 season, thirteen of the twenty Premier League clubs had at least minority American shareholders.
What happened
American investment in global football has reached unprecedented levels. A significant study from Nielsen reported that nearly 80 billion minutes of football were viewed by Americans in 2025. Additionally, 33 percent of the population expects their interest in the sport to grow within the next eighteen months. “When something becomes popular, it causes eyebrows to be raised,” stated an expert.
The increase in American ownership is not a recent phenomenon; it traces back to longstanding trends. For instance, the Glazer family, who own Manchester United, and Stan Kroenke, owner of Arsenal, have been pivotal figures. The real turning point occurred during the global financial crisis in 2008, which opened doors for American investors in English football.
Why it matters
The stakes are high as American investment transforms the landscape of English football. While the influx of capital is beneficial for clubs, it raises questions about traditional values and fan experiences. As these investments grow, concerns about ticket prices and the overall fan experience have also emerged, prompting protests from supporters of clubs with American ownership.
Background
The trend of American investment in English football began gaining traction in the years following the 2008 financial crisis, where the American economy rebounded more quickly than others in Europe. With more wealth available, many wealthy Americans looked overseas for investment opportunities, especially in sports franchises.
By May 2025, eleven of the thirteen Premier League clubs with American stakeholders had emerged after this pivotal year in global economics, demonstrating the long-term implications of the earlier financial crisis on sports investments.
What’s next
In the coming years, experts predict that all English Football League (EFL) clubs will see some form of American investment by 2034. This anticipated growth reflects the ongoing appeal of English football as a profitable venture for American investors.
