In a strategic move reflecting a growing trend among elite footballers, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior has acquired a majority stake in Portuguese second-tier club FC Alverca. This €10 million investment grants the Brazilian winger ownership of approximately 70-80% of the club’s shares, positioning him as a significant figure in the club’s future development.

FC Alverca, established in 1939 and located near Lisbon, has a storied history intertwined with both Portuguese and Brazilian football. The club currently stands second in Liga Portugal 2, just two points behind the leader, Tondela, and is ambitiously aiming for promotion to the top flight in the upcoming season.

This acquisition mirrors a similar venture by Vinícius’s Real Madrid teammate, Kylian Mbappé, who, in July 2024, purchased an 80% stake in French Ligue 2 side SM Caen through his company, Interconnected Ventures. Mbappé’s investment, estimated between €15-€20 million, was aimed at revitalizing the club and enhancing its strategic development.

The trend of active footballers investing in clubs signifies a shift in how players are planning for their post-playing careers. Sports economist Jean-Pascal Gayant notes that modern players, equipped with substantial financial resources, are now diversifying their investments into club ownership, a departure from previous generations who might have invested in businesses like restaurants or bars. This approach allows players to leverage their expertise and continue contributing to the sport in leadership roles.

Vinícius’s involvement with FC Alverca is expected to bring renewed energy and resources to the club, potentially facilitating its ascent to Portugal’s Primeira Liga. As the football landscape evolves, such investments by current players may become more commonplace, blending on-field experience with off-field entrepreneurship to shape the future of the sport.