John Textor, a prospective new owner of Everton, recently expressed his excitement at the prospect of succeeding Farhad Moshiri as the club’s owner. In a statement released in August, the 58-year-old digital entrepreneur confirmed his intention to sell his 45 per cent stake in Crystal Palace in order to pursue a relationship with Everton and its community.
Currently holding stakes in various clubs, including Lyon, Botafogo, and Molenbeek through his company Eagle Football Holdings, Textor has set his sights on acquiring Everton. However, Premier League rules prohibit individuals from owning more than one team, so any potential deal is contingent on him selling his stake in Palace.
In a comprehensive interview with Sky Sports News reporter Alan Myers, Textor shared his perspective on the imminent deal and his vision for the future of the club. He likened the opportunity to own Everton to becoming the President of the United States, emphasizing the honor and responsibility that comes with such a position.
### The Path to Ownership
Reflecting on his journey towards potentially acquiring Everton, Textor acknowledged the gravity of the decision and the historical significance of the club. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the legacy and heritage of football clubs, emphasizing that ownership entails being a caretaker rather than a sole proprietor.
Considering his background in football and his familial ties to the UK, Textor expressed his deep-rooted interest in the sport and his admiration for clubs like Everton. While the opportunity to own such a prestigious club was unexpected, he acknowledged the significance of the moment and the potential impact he could have on the club’s trajectory.
### Overcoming Challenges
Addressing the challenges associated with completing the deal, Textor emphasized the need for patience and strategic planning. He acknowledged the complexities of the negotiation process and the regulatory hurdles that must be navigated to finalize the acquisition.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the deal, Textor remained optimistic about reaching a successful conclusion before the November 30 deadline. He underscored his commitment to enhancing the club’s performance and profitability, outlining his strategic approach to addressing potential obstacles and driving Everton towards success.
### The Role of the New Stadium
When discussing the significance of Everton’s new stadium, Textor expressed a nuanced perspective on the impact of modern facilities on the football experience. Drawing a comparison to Tottenham’s stadium, he emphasized the importance of preserving the essence of football culture while also recognizing the financial benefits of state-of-the-art venues.
While acknowledging the capital investment required for the new stadium, Textor highlighted the importance of balancing fan expectations with financial sustainability. He emphasized his dedication to ensuring that the stadium project is completed successfully and aligns with the club’s long-term goals.
### Engaging with Supporters
Anticipating the pressure and scrutiny that come with owning a football club, Textor emphasized his readiness to engage with Everton supporters and address their concerns. Drawing from his experiences in Brazil, where he faced intense criticism and scrutiny, he expressed confidence in his ability to navigate challenging situations and earn the trust of fans.
Acknowledging the passionate and vocal nature of football fans, Textor emphasized the importance of transparency, humility, and accountability in his interactions with supporters. He expressed his commitment to prioritizing the club’s best interests and fostering a positive relationship with the fan base.
In conclusion, John Textor’s interview provides insight into his aspirations as a prospective owner of Everton and his vision for the club’s future. With a focus on transparency, strategic planning, and community engagement, Textor aims to lead Everton towards success and uphold the club’s rich legacy. As the acquisition process unfolds, fans can expect a dedicated and forward-thinking owner at the helm of the club.