Massimo Ferrero has confirmed that he has sold Sampdoria. The 71-year-old has transferred his shares to Andrea Radrizzani, who also owns Leeds United. Sampdoria fans took to the streets in joy at the news on Tuesday, but Ferrero hit back a day later.
Partying Sampdoria fans warned by ex-owner: “You will regret”
Ferrero stepped down as chairman of Sampdoria in 2021 after he was arrested on suspicion of financial crimes. The club started looking for a new owner, but that search was not easy. Ferrero is said to have blocked several takeovers and is seen by supporters of the club as the main culprit for the current malaise. Sampdoria is struggling with major financial problems and was recently relegated from Serie A.
The joy was therefore great when it became clear on Tuesday that a takeover was imminent. Groups of supporters took to the streets in Genoa, carrying banners stating that Sampdoria had been ‘liberated’. The Italian club announced on Wednesday that there will be a capital increase of up to €40 million. Sampdoria is also facing a restructuring plan.
There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel for Sampdoria, but according to Ferrero, the fans should not count themselves rich yet. On streaming platform Telenord, the now ex-owner had a message: “Sampdoria has been sold and is now owned by Mr. Radrizzani. Find a scapegoat, I haven’t done anything at the club for a year and a half. The mistakes were not made by me. I did everything with my heart. I just want to say you’re going to regret it one day.”
Due to the takeover and the capital injection, a bankruptcy of Sampdoria is out of the question for the time being. The club can register in time for the new season in Serie B, but may still receive a points penalty from the Italian federation due to the financial disorder.
Onana gets time off from Inter, shows his best side
Staying in Italy, André Onana has reported in Cameroon. Not to celebrate a holiday, but for sick children who are helped by his own foundation. Onana had been given a few days off by Internazionale coach Simone Inzaghi.
Instead of a short vacation, the goalkeeper showed his best side. He flew to Cameroon for his André Onana Foundation to help sick children. Some are awaiting surgery, to which Onana’s foundation contributes financially. The Onana foundation supports children with a physical disability.
The Inter players were given three days off by Inzaghi, after which they have to report back to Milan. Inter’s last Serie A game of the season against Torino is scheduled for Inter this Saturday. Inter can still grab second place with a win over Torino. After that, they play the Champions League final against Manchester City.
