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How a Former NFL Star Will Try to Challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid in LaLiga
Former NFL defensive end J.J. Watt, now a minority investor in Burnley, will be stepping into Spanish soccer in a major way. Alongside Alan Pace, the American entrepreneur who leads Burnley’s majority ownership group, Watt has reached an agreement to take over LaLiga side Espanyol.
Watt Expands His Football Footprint Into Spain
The deal will be executed through Velocity Sport Limited (VSL), the sports division of ALK Capital. VSL will become the majority shareholder of Espanyol, while the previous owners, China’s Rastar Group, will maintain a minority role.
After seeing Burnley secure promotion back to the Premier League, the ownership duo is now setting their sights on LaLiga, arguably one of the most competitive leagues in the world. Watt’s growing interest in global football seems to align with the club’s long-term goals to return to top-flight stability and potentially challenge traditional powerhouses like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
Espanyol Aims To Escape the Shadow of Its City Rival
Although Espanyol has a storied past, its presence in the top tier has often been overshadowed by Barcelona, both geographically and competitively. With new leadership from Watt and Pace, the club is expected to modernize its infrastructure, strengthen its squad, and aim for a more ambitious sporting project.
Watt, one of the most recognizable athletes in American sports, adds a layer of international visibility to the Espanyol brand. While still new to European football, his time with Burnley has helped him understand the dynamics of the game—and now he’s ready to apply that knowledge in Spain.
The challenge is monumental, but the message is clear: Espanyol wants to grow, and with Watt involved, they might just have the momentum to do it.