What is going on with Liverpool's multi-club model?

Michael Edwards’ return to Liverpool came with the promise of a multi-club model, something FSG are yet to deliver.

The somewhat controversial multi-club ownership system hit headlines once again in early January as Liam Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca as Cheslea’s head coach.

Rosenior had been managing RC Strasbourg who are also part of the BlueCo group that own Chelsea.

Reading about BlueCo’s multi-club model will leave Liverpool supporters, and no doubt Michael Edwards, wondering whether FSG will ever fulfil their promise of buying a second football club.

Several opportunities have arisen for the American owners, but the group are yet to find a club they deem as acceptable.

What progress has been made towards Liverpool’s multi-club model?

Multiple times over the last 18 months stories have broken that FSG are seriously considering a club, with some deals even coming close to being complete.

Bordeaux, Getafe and Malaga have all reportedly been considered as serious options, but FSG are no closer to taking over a second club than they were when Edwards returned.

The recent sale of the Pittsburgh Penguins, an NHL franchise owned by FSG, will have no doubt generated some funds that could be used to invest in a second club, but rumours of a pending takeover have not resurfaced.

There is no doubt work going on behind the scenes, but for most it seems as though little progress has been made towards securing a second club.

Do FSG need a multi-club model?

There are many benefits to multi-club ownership, especially when it comes to youth development.

Multi-club models are usually the most beneficial to the club at the top of the pecking order, Chelsea in the BlueCo group, RB Liepzig in the Red Bull group and Manchester City in the City Football Group for example.

Liverpool would be the top club in FSG’s system, but there are negatives to consider for which ever club ends up as FSG’s ‘second club’.

Strasbourg supporters have been vocal in their distain at having their manager taken by Chelsea in the middle of the season with Strasbourg appearing to have little to no say in the matter.

The power dynamic in multi-club models makes many supporters uncomfortable, including those at the ‘top’ club.

From a purely footballing perspective, the opportunity to develop young talented players and a second club with a clear pathway to Liverpool’s first team makes a lot of sense.

Only time will tell whether FSG will finally realise the promise they made to Michael Edwards almost two years ago, but an increased focus on youth recruitment this January could be a hint at progress coming soon.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas home range

👉🏻 A new centre-back is COMING to Liverpool

👉🏻 Liverpool finally replace Trent Alexander-Arnold with brilliant playmaker

👉🏻 Centre-back confirms he's ready to join Liverpool