- Global consortium replaces original Class of '92 ownership
- $15M+ infrastructure commitment for stadium and training upgrades
- Target Premier League promotion within 7-10 year timeframe
- Wrexham's Hollywood-inspired success cited as operational blueprint
The working-class Manchester suburb of Salford has become football's latest ambition hotspot following a seismic ownership shift. Local icon David Beckham and business partner Gary Neville now helm an international investment group featuring U.S. sports executives, Indian tech entrepreneurs, and London-based financiers. This transition marks Salford City's evolution from sentimental pet project to serious EFL contender.
While the Class of '92's Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, and Paul Scholes have exited ownership roles, they'll retain advisory positions focused on youth development. Singaporean magnate Peter Lim's divestment clears the path for what Neville calls purpose-driven capital– a reference to pledged improvements including expanded seating at Peninsula Stadium and state-of-the-art analytics training labs.
Beckham revealed to reporters that Salford's transformation blueprint borrows from Wrexham's celebrity-owned resurgence. Ryan Reynolds showed how authenticity drives commercial success,he noted, referencing the Welsh club's 300% merchandise revenue spike. However, the consortium insists Salford's strategy prioritizes organic growth over Hollywood glitz.
Financial sustainability remains paramount despite bold ambitions. Neville confirmed plans to triple matchday revenue through enhanced hospitality offerings while maintaining League Two's third-lowest ticket prices (£15 average). A partnership with University of Salford aims to create 120 local jobs via new sports science facilities.
The ownership shift reflects broader trends in English football's lower tiers. Recent Deloitte analysis shows League Two foreign investment surged 78% since 2020, driven by relaxed ownership rules and streaming revenue potential. Salford's location in Greater Manchester – a region attracting 23% of UK sports tech investment – positions it uniquely for growth.
Regional case studies like Wrexham AFC demonstrate the risks and rewards of celebrity stewardship. While Reynolds' club achieved back-to-back promotions, Salford's group emphasizes measured progress. We're building a Premier League-caliber infrastructure, not just chasing short-term results,Beckham stated, referencing plans for a 12,000-seat stadium compliant with top-flight standards.
Community impact remains central to the project. The club will launch free youth coaching programs across 15 Salford schools in 2025, coupled with subsidized transit to matches for low-income families. As Neville put it: This isn't about creating a tourist attraction – it's about writing football's next great underdog story where it matters most.
