It is possible that Todd Boehly’s lack of understanding of Association Football could have contributed to his frantic spending in the transfer market. Boehly, an American investor who led a consortium to take over Chelsea in May, has been known for his extravagant spending in the transfer market since acquiring the club. Chelsea’s total spending since Boehly’s arrival is reported to be around £460 million[8].
Under Boehly’s ownership, Chelsea has made several high-profile signings that have not necessarily translated into success on the field. Gary Neville even suggested that it could take Chelsea a couple of years to recover from Boehly’s first transfer window in charge of the club[5]. The club’s poor performance after the signings could be a reflection of Boehly’s lack of understanding of the sport and its nuances.
Furthermore, Boehly’s vision for elite sports appears to be focused on creating a premium consumer entertainment experience[3]. This mindset could have led him to prioritize spending big on star players to attract attention and boost the club’s brand rather than focusing on building a cohesive and competitive team.
In conclusion, while it is difficult to definitively say that Todd Boehly’s lack of understanding of Association Football is the sole reason for his frantic spending, it could have been a contributing factor. The club’s performance, coupled with his vision for elite sports, suggests that his focus may be more on entertainment and spectacle than on creating a well-rounded football team.