Rangers and Celtic are being urged to explore the multi-club ownership model, a strategy adopted by several successful European clubs like Manchester City and Brighton. The suggestion is driven by the growing competitive pressure on Scotland’s two dominant teams to remain relevant and successful, particularly in European competitions. Both clubs have immense global appeal and financial strength, making them prime candidates for this model, which would allow them to leverage talent from a broader pool of clubs, improve player development, and create new revenue streams.
Former Aberdeen CEO Keith Wyness has pointed out that both Rangers and Celtic have the financial resources to invest in acquiring or partnering with other clubs across different leagues. This would not only provide them with access to a wider talent base but also expand their brand presence internationally. Wyness believes that this could help them address key challenges, such as bridging the gap between domestic dominance and underperformance in Europe.
Celtic, in particular, has posted strong financial results, increasing their cash reserves and revenue, which positions them well to consider such an expansion. With growing pressure from other clubs and the ever-evolving landscape of football finance, the time might be right for both Celtic and Rangers to seriously evaluate the benefits of this model.
By implementing a multi-club structure, Rangers and Celtic could secure a competitive edge, especially as clubs like Hearts and others may benefit from new investments that could threaten their domestic superiority. For example, Brighton’s potential investment in Hearts has been highlighted as a move that could challenge the Old Firm’s duopoly in Scottish football.
The multi-club model also presents opportunities to tap into talent from around the world. For instance, Manchester City’s extensive network includes teams across multiple continents, allowing them to develop players who can either be sold for profit or integrated into their first team. This strategy would help Rangers and Celtic strengthen their squads without solely relying on the domestic market, which has its limitations in terms of talent depth.
However, while there are clear advantages, the multi-club model also comes with challenges. These include the complexities of managing multiple clubs across different leagues and ensuring that the focus remains on developing talent that benefits the parent club. The success of this model depends heavily on a well-structured management approach and strategic alignment across the affiliated clubs.
Another potential benefit is that such a network could offer Rangers and Celtic a more sustainable business model. By developing young talent and moving them through their network of clubs, they can enhance player value and secure substantial transfer fees, which could be reinvested into their first teams. This aligns with the current trend in European football, where clubs aim to be less dependent on broadcasting revenue and more focused on player trading.
As Rangers and Celtic continue to navigate the challenges of competing both domestically and in Europe, adopting a multi-club model may be a necessary evolution. It would allow them to remain competitive in the face of increasing investment from rival clubs, both within Scotland and abroad, ensuring their relevance in the ever-changing landscape of global football.
Ultimately, while the adoption of this model could help them address some of the growing problems they face, it would require careful planning and significant investment to ensure long-term success.
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