Ed Woodward to join Eagle Football Holdings as independent director
- Ed Woodward is being considered for a directorship at Eagle Football Holdings, which owns stakes in multiple football clubs.
- Eagle Football is preparing for an IPO in the US, seeking to raise significant funds and secure a high valuation.
- This potential appointment could mark Ed Woodward's return to a leadership role in football following his departure from Manchester United.
In the United Kingdom, Ed Woodward, the former chief executive officer of Manchester United, has been approached for a role with Eagle Football Holdings, which is preparing to go public in the United States. Having left Manchester United in 2022 after a lengthy 17-year tenure, Woodward was a pivotal figure during the club's controversial 2021 involvement in the European Super League. This new opportunity marks a significant potential shift for Woodward as it would be his first mainstream football directorship since his departure from Old Trafford. Eagle Football Holdings, founded by American businessman John Textor, has interests in several football clubs worldwide, including substantial stakes in Crystal Palace in the Premier League and Botafogo in Brazil. The group is gearing up for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the next few weeks, with plans to file confidentially with U.S. regulators, aiming to raise several hundred million dollars and achieve a valuation exceeding $2 billion. The IPO discussions highlight a significant moment for the company, which has sought professional advice from several investment banks. Despite being approached, sources indicate that the final appointment of Woodward as an independent director is not confirmed yet. His past role at Manchester United included involvement in key financial decisions, including the controversial leveraged buyout that took place in 2005, leading to considerable debt at the club. This historical context may influence his acceptance of the role and the expectations associated with it. Eagle Football has also been attempting to sell its stake in Crystal Palace, which may now not happen due to the club's recent successes. Meanwhile, a broader conversation is ongoing regarding the regulation of football ownership in the UK, which could significantly impact clubs like Crystal Palace and others under Eagle Football Holdings. With public expectations concerning transparency and democratic ownership increasing, the upcoming decisions within the company could shape the future landscape of football club management.