In a significant turn of events, Oaktree Capital Management has officially taken ownership of Serie A champions Inter Milan. This transfer of ownership occurred after the club’s Chinese holding company, Suning, failed to make a payment of €395 million. Oaktree initially provided a loan to Suning in 2021, which was secured by their stake in Inter Milan. The missed payment deadline prompted Oaktree to step in and take control of the club.
Upon acquiring ownership of Inter Milan, Oaktree’s managing director, Alejandro Cano, expressed the fund’s intention to focus on the club’s long-term future. Despite speculation about a potential sale, Cano clarified that Oaktree is committed to maintaining ownership of the club for the foreseeable future. He emphasized that the fund’s priority is to ensure operational and financial stability for Inter Milan. This approach indicates that Oaktree is in no rush to offload the club and instead aims to be a patient investor.
With Inter Milan now under American ownership, the club joins a growing list of Serie A teams that have U.S.-based ownership. AC Milan, Atalanta, Fiorentina, Roma, Genoa, and newly promoted Parma are among the other clubs in the league with American owners. This trend reflects the increasing presence of American investors in European football and the attraction of Serie A clubs as valuable assets.
Founded in 1908, Inter Milan holds a storied history in Italian football, boasting a total of 20 league titles. The club has been home to legendary players such as Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella, further enhancing its reputation in the world of football. Suning’s acquisition of a majority stake in Inter Milan in 2016 marked a significant chapter in the club’s history, aligning with broader trends of Chinese investment in European football.
As the new owners of Inter Milan, Oaktree Capital Management has acknowledged the club’s rich tradition and legacy. Cano affirmed the fund’s recognition of its responsibility to the Inter Milan community, expressing a commitment to upholding the club’s esteemed heritage. This statement underscores Oaktree’s dedication to preserving the values and identity of Inter Milan under its ownership.
The transition of ownership to Oaktree Capital Management signals a new chapter for Inter Milan. As the club embarks on a path under American ownership, the focus on long-term stability, respect for tradition, and commitment to success will shape its future trajectory in Serie A.
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