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Chiellini Invests In LAFC Ownership

Chiellini Invests In LAFC Ownership

Giorgio Chiellini has gone from hired gun to part-owner at LAFC, with the Italian legend officially joining the club’s ownership group.

This isn’t some celebrity vanity project either – Chiellini genuinely gets what LAFC is about. The 40-year-old defender, who called time on a glittering 22-year career in December 2023, has seen enough football to know quality when he finds it.

“Joining the LAFC ownership group is a great honour for me,” Chiellini said. “When I arrived here three years ago as a player, I immediately felt that there was something special about this club. It is an ambitious organisation, 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.”

The transition from player to owner makes perfect sense. Chiellini didn’t just turn up for a pay check during his two seasons in Los Angeles – he bought into the project completely. His 45 appearances across all competitions, including those crucial playoff runs, showed a man who understood what LAFC and Major League Soccer could become.

Lead Managing Owner Bennett Rosenthal clearly recognises what they’ve got on their hands. “We are thankful to have the opportunity for Giorgio to continue his legacy with LAFC as a member of our ownership group,” Rosenthal said. “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.”

This is a man who spent 18 years at Juventus, collecting nine consecutive Serie A titles, five Italian Cups, and enough individual honours to fill a museum. He captained Italy to European Championship glory in 2020, earned 117 caps for the Azzurri, and was named Serie A Defender of the Year three times.

But it’s what he achieved in Los Angeles that really matters now. The 2022 Supporters’ Shield and the ultimate prize of the MLS Cup weren’t just footnotes in a legendary career – they were the foundation of something bigger.

Even after retiring, Chiellini couldn’t stay away, working as a Player Development Coach in 2024. Now he’s putting his money where his mouth is, literally investing in the club’s future.

Details of the financial commitment have not been released.

Insideworldfootball.com

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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.

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