In a surprising turn of events, United States-based investment fund Oaktree Capital Management has officially taken over as the new owner of Serie A champions, Inter Milan. This acquisition came after a missed payment of €395 million ($428m) from the club’s Chinese holding company, Suning. It is important to note that Oaktree granted a loan to Suning in 2021, which was guaranteed by their stake in the club. However, with the failure of Suning to meet the deadline for repaying the debt, Oaktree has stepped in to assume control.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the situation, Oaktree has made it clear that they are looking towards the long-term future of Inter Milan. Managing director Alejandro Cano emphasized that the focus is on operational and financial stability. It has been rumored that Oaktree might consider selling the club, but sources have indicated that there are no immediate plans for offloading. Instead, the investment fund is positioning itself as a patient investor, willing to work closely with the management team of Inter Milan.
With the acquisition of Inter Milan, Oaktree becomes the seventh Serie A club under American ownership. The likes of AC Milan, Atalanta, Fiorentina, Roma, Genoa, and newly promoted Parma are among the other clubs owned by American investors. This trend highlights the increasing interest and influence of American capital in Italian football. The investment by Oaktree brings a sense of stability and potential growth to Inter Milan, a club with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1908.
As the new owners of Inter Milan, Oaktree has expressed a strong commitment to the club’s community, history, and legacy. The managing director, Alejandro Cano, reiterated the responsibility that comes with owning a club as prestigious as Inter Milan. The investment fund recognizes the significance of the club in Italian football and aims to uphold its traditions while working towards a sustainable future.
The acquisition of Inter Milan by Oaktree Capital Management marks a significant chapter in the history of the club. With a focus on stability, long-term growth, and community engagement, Oaktree’s ownership brings a new perspective to one of Italy’s most iconic football institutions. Only time will tell how this acquisition will impact the future of Inter Milan and its place in the competitive landscape of Italian football.