Kylian Mbappe Acquires Ligue 2 Club SM Caen

France captain Kylian Mbappe has become the majority shareholder of Ligue 2 club SM Caen, according to a statement from his company, Interconnected Ventures. Mbappe’s investment firm, Coalition Capital, has acquired 80% of the club’s shares from the US investment fund Oaktree, although the exact amount of the deal has not been officially disclosed. French media estimates the acquisition cost between 15-20 million euros ($16-21.6 million).

“This transaction is a major step for the club’s strategic growth and aligns with its ambition to be a leading force in French football,” the club stated.

The acquisition is set to provide Caen with enhanced resources to improve its sporting strategy, modernize facilities, and initiate innovative projects. Ziad Hammoud, a close friend of Mbappe, will assume the role of chairman.

“We aim to foster an environment where young talents can thrive and ensure the club maintains its identity with strength and ambition,” Hammoud remarked.

Mbappe, who at 25 becomes one of the youngest owners of a professional football club, had a near move to Caen during his youth before eventually joining Monaco and then Paris Saint-Germain.

The mayor of Caen, Aristide Olivier, expressed pride in Mbappe’s investment, noting, “It’s clear that his time at Caen in his youth had a lasting impact. We are thrilled to see a champion like @KMbappe investing in @SMCaen.”

Founded in 1913, SM Caen achieved notable successes, including a fifth-place finish in the top flight in 1992 and reaching the League Cup final in 2005. However, the club has been competing in France’s second tier since 2019.