Less than two seasons after retiring from professional soccer as a member of the Los Angeles Football Club, legendary Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini officially returned to the Black & Gold on Tuesday as the 25th member of the club’s ownership group.
“When I arrived here three years ago as a player, I immediately felt that there was something special about this club,” Chiellini said in a statement announcing the news. “It is an ambitious organization, built by extraordinary people and supported by a community that truly makes you feel at home. That is why, last year, I expressed my desire to become an owner, and now I’m proud to continue this journey and give my support to a project I deeply believe in.”
On the field with LAFC, Chiellini made 38 starts in 45 appearances across all competitions, winning the 2022 Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup while finishing runners-up in the 2023 CONCACAF Champions League, Campeones Cup and MLS Cup.
When Chiellini’s 22-year competitive career concluded in December 2023, his influence at LAFC switched to a front office and a player development role, which had less to do with coaching than it did exposing the 40-year-old defender to the full panoply of the organization’s structure.
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo, whose first season coincided with Chiellini’s arrival, called the ownership news “amazing” and described the Italian as someone who lights up any room or stadium he enters.
“To have him permanently part of the LAFC family is great news for Los Angeles,” Cherundolo said Tuesday. “And even better news for LAFC. It’s awesome to see him here. The more of Giorgio, the better.”
Calling his minority ownership status with LAFC as a “great honor for me,” Chiellini remains affiliated with Juventus, the Italian club where he was named Serie A defender of the year three times and became famous while winning nine straight league titles, among other accolades over his 18 years with the Bianconeri and another 117 appearances for the Italian national team. He is also an investor in the women’s side of Italian football.
“We are thankful to have the opportunity for Giorgio to continue his legacy with LAFC as a member of our ownership group,” LAFC lead managing owner Bennett Rosenthal said in a statement. “Giorgio has always brought tremendous leadership, professionalism, and character everywhere he goes, and his values perfectly align with the long-term vision we have for LAFC. We are grateful to have Giorgio as our friend and now partner.”
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