Martin Braithwaite Eyes Majority Stake in Espanyol
In a shocking turn of events, former Espanyol star Martin Braithwaite is reportedly looking to become a majority shareholder of the La Liga club, mere weeks after terminating his contract with the Blanquiblancs. The 33-year-old forward, who scored 22 goals in 39 games to help Espanyol secure promotion to the top tier last season, has a history of tension with the club’s hierarchy, which may have contributed to his decision.
According to reports, Braithwaite has always felt disrespected by Espanyol’s treatment of him, particularly when the club offered him a contract renewal last year that he deemed unacceptable. He has also been vocal about his frustration with the team’s lack of trust in him, suggesting that he may not have been given the support he needed to succeed.
Braithwaite’s decision to pursue a stake in Espanyol may not be entirely surprising, given his business ventures and investments outside of football. He has a net worth of £216 million, thanks in part to his successful real estate company, which he co-founded with his uncle and has grown to become worth around £180 million.
In an interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, Braithwaite spoke about his American business empire, saying, "I always had this American side, and I think maybe that’s why my mindset is maybe more American: dreaming big, doing amazing things, writing goals down." He also referenced the differences between the American and Danish systems, stating, "In Denmark, we have an amazing system protecting the people. Everyone is good. No one needs anything. In America, it’s not really the same thing."
Braithwaite’s business ventures don’t stop there. He also owns a clothing brand called "Trente" with his wife, Anne-Laure Louis, and a Barcelona-based restaurant called "Gave." He has even broken ground on a smart home project in Philadelphia, according to Forbes.
If Braithwaite is able to secure a majority stake in Espanyol, it would be a major coup for the club, as he brings not only a wealth of experience and knowledge but also a significant amount of capital to invest in the team. With his business acumen and football expertise, he may be able to bring about a new era of success for the Blanquiblancs.
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