Leeds United Chairman Paraag Marathe has expressed his belief that the Premier League needs the club because they make the top flight “more special.” Marathe, who was previously vice chairman and a board member of the club, has taken over from Andrea Radrizzani after the Italian agreed to sell his majority stake in the club. The 49ers Enterprises’ purchase of the club has now been confirmed, and Marathe has led the transition to the new ownership.
In an interview with the official Leeds United Podcast, Marathe emphasized the importance of the club to England’s top flight. He stated, “The Premier League needs Leeds. Call it whatever you want. The way we play. The tenacity in which we play. Our history. The Premier League needs us because we make the league more special.”
Marathe also highlighted the unique qualities that Leeds United brings to the table. He acknowledged that while other clubs may have had greater success, Leeds possesses something that sets them apart. He said, “There is something different about Leeds. It is not like these other clubs. A lot of these clubs have had great success. Better success than we have had. But we have something that they do not have. There is a movement beneath the surface, and I want to be a part of that movement and I cannot wait to see what that becomes in five, ten years.”
Marathe’s background in sports distinguishes him from other chairmen in football. He explained, “I am different from your typical chairman or owner. I am not a fifth-generation multi-billionaire who is doing this for a hobby or wants to kill some time. That is quite the opposite. I came up on my own and I grew up loving sports. That is first and foremost who I am. I love competition. I love winning. I have always had a chip on my shoulder because this is not a hobby, this is life to me. This is something that I am meant to do. I am a supporter first.”
Marathe’s 20-year history with the 49ers has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of various roles within a sports organization. He has been involved in negotiations, served as president and chief executive of a team, built a stadium, and hired coaches. This wealth of experience sets him apart from other club chairmen.
Leeds United confirmed that Angus Kinnear, a board member and the club’s CEO, will remain in his current position and continue to oversee day-to-day operations. Additionally, Rudy Cline-Thomas will join the board as co-owner and vice chairman.
Marathe’s new role at the club has inspired him, and he shared insights into the club’s search for a new manager before appointing Daniel Farke earlier this month. He expressed his determination to bring Leeds United back to the Premier League and restore the club’s pride both on and off the pitch. Marathe stated, “We want this club to be something that everybody can be proud of. Not just players and coaches, but supporters and sponsors.”
The takeover process faced challenges due to Leeds United’s relegation from the Premier League. Marathe explained that the approval times took longer than anticipated, but the club continued to work behind the scenes. They conducted numerous interviews with first-team managers and football professionals to ensure they were moving in the right direction.
Leeds United’s new ownership under 49ers Enterprises brings fresh perspectives and ambitions for the club. Marathe’s passion for sports and his diverse experience in the industry make him a unique chairman. With his leadership, Leeds United aims to reclaim their position in the Premier League and contribute to the league’s allure and excitement.
In conclusion, Paraag Marathe, the new chairman of Leeds United, believes that the Premier League needs the club because they bring a unique quality that sets them apart. Marathe’s background in sports and his determination to succeed make him a different kind of chairman. With the new ownership, Leeds United aims to restore the club’s pride and make a lasting impact in the Premier League.