In a significant move within the world of football ownership, star player Kylian Mbappe's investment firm, Coalition Capital, is set to acquire a majority stake in French second division club Stade Malherbe Caen. This development marks Oaktree Capital Management's exit from the club, following their initial investment in 2020 post-relegation from the top league in France.
The announcement comes as a strategic shift for Mbappe, known for his prowess on the field and now making a strong foray into football business. The deal also sees media businessman Pierre-Antoine Capton's PAC Invest retaining its minority stake in the club, ensuring a diverse ownership structure moving forward.
This transaction signals Mbappe's growing influence in the sport, aligning him with other sports professionals who have ventured into football club ownership. Notably, Mbappe's move comes as he transitions to Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain, further solidifying his expanding presence in the industry.
Coalition Capital's acquisition was facilitated by advisory firms Deloitte and Bredin Prat, underlining the strategic planning that went into this ownership transition. On the other hand, Oaktree was advised by Tifosy Capital & Advisory and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, showcasing the collaborative efforts behind the deal. PAC Invest also had its counsel in Grandeur Company, Mayer Brown, and Jeausserand Audouard, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the transaction.
With Mbappe's Coalition Capital taking the helm at Stade Malherbe Caen, the football club looks poised for a new era under the ownership of a global sporting icon, setting the stage for exciting developments within the French football landscape.