The Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has acquired a minority stake in Swansea.
The 39-year-old Croatia captain, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has made his first foray into football ownership after being attracted by the “exciting opportunity” on offer in south Wales.
“Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fanbase, and the ambition to compete at the highest level,” Modric said. “Playing at the highest level, I believe I can provide my experience to the club. My goal is to support the club’s growth in a positive way and to help to build an exciting future.”
Swansea are fronted by the American owners Andy Coleman, Brett Cravatt and Jason Cohen. They are 12th in the Championship after a renaissance under their caretaker head coach, Alan Sheehan, who succeeded Luke Williams in February. Swansea host Hull on Friday and have taken 17 points from nine matches under Sheehan. He is expected to be a leading candidate to take the job on a permanent basis.
Modric’s arrival is the latest in a series of changes behind the scenes. Tom Gorringe, formerly of Bristol Rovers, recently replaced Coleman as chief executive while the director of football, Richard Montague, arrived from Notts County to replace Paul Watson.
“Swansea City is delighted to announce that Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modrić has joined the club as an investor and co-owner,” Swansea said. “Luka’s investment in the club is an endorsement of the club’s ambition and vision. He will play a key role in helping the club garner global attention and progress both on and off the pitch.”
Modric’s investment is not thought to be a barrier to him continuing his playing career. He hopes to captain Croatia at the 2026 World Cup and has made clear he wants to continue at Real, although a change of manager could spell the end for him at a club where he has won six Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles since signing from Tottenham in 2012.
after newsletter promotion
He will probably be part of the Real team that hope to overturn a three‑goal deficit against Arsenal in the Champions League at the Bernabéu on Wednesday