Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

NFL Legend J.J. Watt Joins Burnley Owners in Takeover of La Liga Side Espanyol

NFL Legend Expands Soccer Footprint by Acquiring Majority Stake in Espanyol.

Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Former NFL star and Burnley co-owner J.J. Watt is taking his growing interest in soccer to Spain. The Houston Texans legend is part of the ownership group that is set to acquire La Liga side RCD Espanyol. It was confirmed by the Catalan club on Monday.

The takeover, led by Alan Pace’s Velocity Sport Limited (VSL), sees Watt and Pace emerge as key figures in a strategic alliance. It will bring Espanyol under the same investment umbrella as Burnley FC. Both clubs will remain independent but they will share support from VSL’s financial group.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT #RCDE
— RCD Espanyol de Barcelona (@RCDEspanyol_EN) July 14, 2025

The Catalan club RCD Espanyol released a statement, saying, “Espanyol and Burnley will be part of this investment group, which expands its interests by having a club in LaLiga and another in the Premier League – although each will remain independent.”

A Growing Trend of Multiclub Ownership

VSL’s move into La Liga mirrors a broader trend in football where investors are seeking more and more multi-club models. This is happening to spread risk and create synergies. City Football Group are not only the owners of Manchester City, but they also operate 13 clubs worldwide.

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Other Premier League sides like Aston Villa and Crystal Palace also have ownership ties with foreign teams. Espanyol’s previous majority owners, China’s Rastar Group, will remain involved in the club. They will become part of the joint investment vehicle.

The agreement, however, is still pending completion of administrative procedures. The Catalan outfit narrowly avoided relegation from La Liga last season and are yet to finish in the league’s top ten since 2018-19. The new ownership could bring fresh ambition and resources to change that trajectory.

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J. J. Watt Continues Soccer Journey

Watt first invested in Burnley in 2023, becoming a minority shareholder. The Clarets, under ALK Capital’s ownership, secured promotion to the Premier League this past season. They finished second in the Championship. Watt is known for his vocal support of Burnley on social media.

He could bring the same energy to Espanyol as he steps into a more prominent role within European football. This acquisition positions Watt among a growing group of former athletes investing in football globally. As VSL integrates Espanyol into its portfolio, fans will expect it to spark success in both La Liga and the Premier League.

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Moumita Dutta

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Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.