An unexpected call could change the future of one of the most emblematic clubs in Colombian football. Carlos Antonio Vélez indicated that Once Caldas, a team from the city of Manizales, could be sold to a group of foreign investors.
As Vélez reported in his program Antena 2 Keywordsgetting interest in the club is nothing new. Months ago, it was mentioned that Celta de Vigo, from Spain, was interested in buying a Colombian soccer club. Although the news did not have much impact at the time, it has now been confirmed again.
The sale process appears to be progressing, as shares have begun to be acquired from the club’s minority partners. This suggests that Once Caldas, famous for its historic Copa Libertadores victory in 2004, could be part of a foreign economic conglomerate. For some time now, the club has been offered to various businessmen, and the possibility of a change of ownership seems closer than ever.
At the moment, no details have been revealed about who could be the new owner of the Manizale team. However, more details are expected to be released in the coming months about these negotiations, which could bring important changes to the club in 2025.
La Equidad could be another of the Colombian teams that could change owners – credit Cristian Bayona/ColprensaAn American investment group could be the new owner of the Bogotá soccer club La Equidad, as journalist Diego Rueda confirmed at the time. This news comes amid intense talk of a sale of the team, although a definitive agreement has not yet been finalised, according to sources consulted. Footballer.
Getting interest in the club is nothing new. Since May, rumors began to circulate about potential investors in La Equidad, although the club’s president, Carlos Mario Zuluaga, downplayed these speculations at the time. “absolutely crazy”. However, the team’s performance in the Betplay League II has not been as expected, which has revived talks of a change of ownership.
Sources from the aforementioned media confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, but emphasized that no agreement has yet been closed. “It’s not closed yet, they’re just conversations”said a person involved in the process, who preferred not to divulge further details until the operation has been completed.
The possible entry of foreign capital into coffee football has been a recurrent topic in recent months, not only with regard to La Equidad, but also with other clubs such as Atlético Huila, which was acquired by Sociedad Farlay SA, owned by the Ecuadorian businessman , Michel. Deller, the largest shareholder of the Spanish teams CD Numancia and Independiente del Valle.
As the negotiations progress, the football community awaits an official announcement confirming the future of La Equidad and its potential new owner. In the meantime, the team continues its participation in the local league, facing the sporting challenges that arise.
When Caldas was in group B with Junior, Tolima and América de Cali – credit Juan Augusto Cardona / ColprensaIn their two games in group B of the semi-finals of the BetPlay Dimayor Series, Hernán Darío Herrera’s squad have two points and need to add three against Junior de Barranquilla to continue their chances of reaching the final of the venue for rent.
Title: The Future of Colombian Football: Foreign Investments and Ownership Changes
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news, where we delve into the most pressing issues of our times. Today, we have an exciting topic to discuss about Colombian football, particularly the foreign interest in its clubs. Joining us is Dr. Laura González, an expert in sports economics and management. Thank you for being here, Dr. González!
Dr. González: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the significant developments within the Colombian football landscape.
Interviewer: Recently, there have been strong indications that the Once Caldas and La Equidad clubs are potential targets for foreign investors. Can you give us an overview of this trend?
Dr. González: Absolutely! The approach of foreign investors toward clubs in the BetPlay Dimayor League is indicative of a broader trend in global sports where investments from abroad are becoming commonplace. Once Caldas, known for its rich history and Copa Libertadores victory, is reportedly in talks for a sale. The movement of acquiring shares from minority partners signifies that a major shift could be on the horizon.
Interviewer: It seems that Celta de Vigo’s interest last year may have sparked this recent wave of investment talk, particularly regarding Once Caldas. How does such international interest affect the local football ecosystem?
Dr. González: Celta de Vigo’s interest initially planted the seed, but it is the current negotiations that could have lasting impacts. If foreign investments go through, we could see enhanced financial resources for the clubs, which would positively influence player recruitment, training facilities, and overall operational management. However, it can also lead to concerns about the cultural identity of these clubs and how well they adapt to foreign ownership.
Interviewer: La Equidad is also in the spotlight with American investors circling the club. What should fans and stakeholders expect if this change happens?
Dr. González: Big changes can come with foreign investments, which can lead to both opportunities and challenges. Fans might see a more professional approach to management and possibly a financial injection that could improve team performance in the league. However, as was highlighted by La Equidad’s president downplaying this interest, there can be skepticism and fears about losing local connections and traditions.
Interviewer: In terms of branding and global outreach, how might these clubs benefit from new ownership?
Dr. González: New ownership often comes with global networks and marketing strategies that can elevate a club’s brand internationally. For instance, once a club secures foreign investment, it may attract sponsorships from multinational corporations, increase merchandise sales, and build an international following through enhanced digital presence. The increased visibility can be transformative, particularly for clubs like Once Caldas and La Equidad.
Interviewer: What role do you believe timing plays in these negotiations, especially given the performance of these clubs in recent leagues?
Dr. González: Timing is indeed crucial. Both clubs are at a pivotal moment—while Once Caldas holds a celebrated history, their current performance may have prompted potential investors to see the opportunity for growth. With La Equidad’s below-par performance rekindling talks of a sale, investors may view this as a chance to turn around struggling franchises, transforming them into competitive teams that could yield profitable returns.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, how important do you think transparency and communication will be during this transition?
Dr. González: Extremely important. The relationship between the club, its supporters, and the community must remain strong. Transparency can help mitigate fears and uncertainties that come with ownership transitions. Keeping fans informed about intentions, plans, and the preservation of club values will be vital to maintaining their loyalty and support through these changes.
Interviewer: Thank you so much, Dr. González, for your insights today. It’s clear that the potential for foreign investments in Colombian football presents both opportunities and challenges—one to watch closely!
Dr. González: Thank you! It’s a fascinating time for Colombian football, and I look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.
Interviewer: And thank you to our audience for tuning in to this insightful discussion. Stay connected with Time.news for more updates on sports and global developments!