Radrizzani on Sampdoria, Leeds and ‘lazy’ Premier League clubs

Andrea Radrizzani compares his decisions to take over Sampdoria and Leeds United, noting he ‘is attracted to a challenge,’ but accuses English clubs of getting ‘lazy.’

The Italian businessman purchased Leeds United in 2017 from Massimo Cellino and helped them earn promotion to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020.

However, they were relegated in 2023 and Radrizzani announced the sale of the club to 49ers Enterprises, at the same time buying a Sampdoria side fresh from relegation to Serie B.

“I always said that in life I am attracted to a challenge, so just like it was for Leeds, I decided to help Matteo Manfredi to save Sampdoria from a situation that was close to bankruptcy,” said Radrizzani at the DLA Piper Sport Forum in Milan.

“The objective is to take Samp back into Serie A as soon as possible. It is a complicated season so far, obviously because the club is rising from the rubble that was left, so it takes time and hard work.”

As someone involved in football both on a practical level and in dealing with streaming rights at DAZN, Radrizzani is in a better position than most to outline the biggest differences between Serie A and the Premier League.

“Television rights make a huge difference to revenue, but in my view, the English clubs are also getting lazy. They have no ability to really make long-term plans. Some, like Brighton and Brentford, do it very well.

“As for others, there is a lack of focus and understanding. In Italy, I see far more professionalism in the scouting systems and in considering what costs are fair.

“If you are in the Premier League, every player approached will cost at least €20m and that made the clubs lazy.”

When Radrizzani sold Leeds United, many of the fans there were not at all sad to see him go.

“It ended on something of a bitter note, but it was important for my professional growth. I did good things there, but also many mistakes and I hope to learn from them.

“I will say that I am not accustomed to such a strong media presence, because in England they don’t pay attention to every word and statement, they are much more focused on the game.”

Genoa owners 777 Partners are currently attempting a takeover of Premier League side Everton, but it depends on them passing a series of tests.

“There is something important in the Premier League and that is they evaluate the owners before allowing them to take over a football club. I think we ought to introduce that in Italy too, as the institutions should have checks on those investing in Italian football.”