LONDON—Based on his success on the other side of the pond, hedge-fund manager John Henry seems a strong owner for Liverpool Football Club, the debt-laden Premier League team.
After buying the Boston Red Sox for $690 million with partners in 2002, Mr. Henry turned around the team, bringing World Series titles to Boston in 2004 and 2007—breaking the “Curse of the Bambino” that had stretched back to its last title in 1918.
If Mr. Henry eventually buys Liverpool (the current American owners—Tom Hicks and George Gillett—are resisting a sale, and a deal would also require the Premier League’s approval), he may bring hope to disgruntled Liverpool fans given his track record of success with the baseball team.
The value of the Red Sox grew enormously due to the success on the field following the change of ownership. Recent estimates put the value of the club at about $1.2 billion.
Some experts say part of the Red Sox’s success story over the last decade is due to Mr. Henry’s ability to revamp the entire business operation: he changed management, revamped the stadium and brought in successful players.
Full story: Liverpool Fans, Meet John Henry – WSJ.com