RED BULL & CITY FOOTBALL GROUP: Management model or targets of envy?

The modern football landscape has been shaped by the emergence of groups such as Red Bull and the City Football Group, which are now among the biggest players in the sport. They have revolutionised the way clubs are run, but their success has also sparked criticism and feelings of unfairness among other teams and supporters.

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Innovative management

These two groups stand out for their innovative approach to club management. Red Bull, with its teams in Leipzig and Salzburg, has implemented a model focused on talent development, sporting performance and a strong corporate culture. Their playing philosophy, their ability to identify and recruit promising players, and their investment in infrastructure are often cited as examples.

Similarly, City Football Group, which owns Manchester City, has developed a network of clubs around the world from Melbourne to New York. This approach allows them to share resources, develop talent on a global scale and maximise their visibility. Their marketing and branding strategy has also been noted, making Manchester City one of the most powerful brands in football.

City Football Group, clubs

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Criticism and jealousy

However, this success is not without controversy. The methods employed by these groups, particularly the use of significant funds to acquire players and infrastructure, fuel jealousy among clubs that do not have the same financial resources. Supporters of traditional clubs often see these investments as distorting competition, where wealth takes precedence over sporting prowess.

Red Bull's model, in particular, has drawn criticism for its commercial approach. Some football purists believe that the spirit of the sport is compromised by the way these clubs are run like businesses, with a focus on profit and short-term performance rather than identity and heritage.

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An intensified rivalry

This dynamic has created intense rivalry between clubs. Supporters of historic teams may feel animosity towards clubs such as Manchester City and RB Leipzig, perceived as ‘rich clubs’ that buy their success. This fuels a ‘David versus Goliath’ narrative, where small teams battle against giants financed by millions.

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Towards an evolution in football

Despite criticism, it is undeniable that Red Bull and the City Football Group, as the largest football groups today, have succeeded in redefining management standards in the sport. Their approach has highlighted the need for long-term vision and strategic management, prompting other clubs to rethink their business models.