Union president Zingler defends investor role, slams "shitty DFL" label
In a recent interview, Union Berlin president Dirk Zingler expressed his openness towards investors in German soccer, apologetically distancing his club from the anti-investor sentiment. Zingler, a proponent of smart, long-term deals, acknowledged Union Berlin's history as a "story of courageous investors."
The club did not endorse the recent planned investor deal that would earn the German Football League (DFL) a billion euros. Zingler justified their decision, mentioning the 20-year commitment involved, and criticized investors looking for quick returns or taking interest in multiple clubs.
Following the clubs' authorization of the strategic partnership with an external investor, Zingler condemned the widespread "fucking DFL" slogan in protests. He asserts that employees and top executives did not make the decision but rather the clubs themselves.
Union's Fundamental Shift on Investors
Union Berlin has a history of relying on external capital for investments in various aspects of the club since 20 years. Zingler offers his club as an example of succeeding when financial aid from sources outside the organization meets the right criteria.
Union Berlin was not among the first and second division clubs that gave approval for the proposed investor entry into the DFL in mid-December. The club voted against the deal due to the uncertain long-term consequences and potential manipulation of the league by profit-driven investors.
A Call for Rational Investment
Zingler emphasizes that he strongly opposes investors solely interested in returns, multi-club ownership, and those who aim to alter the very foundation of German soccer. With his perceived patience and pragmatism, Zingler talks about evaluating each investment opportunity based on value for the club and its community.
DFL's management received approval to negotiate with a potential external partner in July of the previous year, aiming for a billion euros as a share of TV revenue. The contract was to secure a 20-year partnership and boost international marketing. Although the proposed deal did not come to fruition, Zingler continued to defend it, arguing for the need to generate revenue to strengthen the league.
As a vocal critic of questionable investments, Zingler advocates for responsible investment in the soccer world, prioritizing the best interests of the club, its community, and the sport itself. In doing so, he demonstrates a clear understanding of both the historical significance of capital in shaping a club's destiny and the potential risks tied to badly executed business decisions.
Sources
Although the article does not provide explicit sources, it can be assumed that the information comes from reliable sources that cover German soccer, including news outlets and club publications. By scrutinizing these sources, one can develop a more comprehensive understanding of Union Berlin's stance on investors and the DFL controversy.
