Former Cagliari President Massimo Cellino has officially sold all his shares of Leeds United to another Italian businessman, Andrea Radrizzani.
Cellino had already sold 50 per cent of his stake to Radrizzani’s Aser Group Holding in January and completed the takeover after they failed to achieve promotion into the Premier League.
Former Cagliari President Massimo Cellino has officially sold all his shares of Leeds United to another Italian businessman, Andrea Radrizzani.
Cellino had already sold 50 per cent of his stake to Radrizzani’s Aser Group Holding in January and completed the takeover after they failed to achieve promotion into the Premier League.
“The heritage and history of Leeds United attracted me to the club and having spent time at games and at Thorp Arch, I can see that we are ready to move forward to the next level,” said Radrizzani on the official club website.
“This is a long-term commitment, there is a lot of hard work ahead of us and I am aware of my responsibilities as owner of Leeds United.
“I can assure all supporters that everyone at this club will be doing all we can to build a successful team at Elland Road.
“Massimo has been incredibly supportive throughout the investment process and I am grateful that he has afforded me the opportunity to purchase Leeds United.
“We have had a positive 12 months and I am inheriting a club with a good squad and talented, hardworking staff.
“Massimo acquired a club in a difficult financial situation but he has created a sound platform for me to take Leeds United forward into a new era. On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Massimo for his support and I wish him well for the future.”
Cellino released his own statement with typical good humour and unorthodox language.
“I have been proud to work at Leeds United, with nice people who have worked at the club with me. If you can survive working with me, you can survive anything!
“I wish Andrea good luck, I am sure he will continue what I have started and show that people from our country are honest and hard working people.
“Owners come and go but Leeds United will be there forever, for the fans – keep Marching on Together. Goodbye and farewell.”
There are reports Cellino is heading back to Italy with an investment in Serie B side Brescia.