From a distance, the Pozzo family’s ownership of English clubs Watford and Udinese appears to be cut from the same cloth as other foreign owners of Premier League clubs. In fact, their acquisition of both clubs has been referred to as “typical foreign ownership.”
However, a closer look at the Italian family’s management style reveals that Gino Pozzo and his kin are nothing like other owners. With a presence in six different countries, the Pozzo family is one of the most unique sports owners. In addition to their ownership of English football clubs, they have ownership stakes in Spanish club Granada CF.
The Pozzo family’s foray into sports ownership began, when they purchased the Italian club Udinese Calcio. Like many, they viewed sports as a way to increase their family’s wealth. However, they quickly discovered that they had a knack for sports management. Over the next 15 years, they would acquire stakes in five more European clubs. In 2008, the Pozzo family purchased a controlling stake in the Spanish club Granada CF. They would purchase a controlling stake in Watford Football Club in 2012.
Why Gino Pozzo Acquired Watford FC
The Pozzo family first acquired a controlling stake in Watford in 2012. At the time, the club was in financial disarray and teetered on the brink of collapse. The Pozzo family quickly purchased the club and saved it from closure. As the Pozzo family acquired Watford to save a football club, they had already proven themselves as successful sports managers.
One of the best things about Gino Pozzo management of Watford is that he runs the club with a long-term vision in mind. As opposed to some owners who buy clubs intending to achieve success in as short a time frame as possible, Gino Pozzo is focused on achieving success in the long term. He is committed to building a well-run club with a strong infrastructure. This approach has made Watford one of the most financially sound clubs in the Premier League. Additionally, it has allowed the club to develop a reputation for signing quality players.
When you look at the Pozzo family’s acquisition of two English clubs and two European clubs, it is clear that they are not your typical owners. They have acquired clubs in several different countries and managed to do so without making rash decisions. With their long-term approach to management and commitment to good governance, the Pozzo family is a model of how owners should conduct themselves. Go to this page for more information.
More about Pozzo on https://theathletic.com/3731531/2022/10/26/pozzo-watford-udinese-talks/