EFL Championship · Championship · Southampton, Hampshire, England · St Mary's Stadium
Southampton FC
Renowned for arguably the finest academy in English football, Southampton have produced a staggering procession of international talent from Shearer to Bale to Walcott, while battling the perpetual challenge of retaining their best players and maintaining Premier League status.
Current Leadership
Majority Owner
Serbian businessman Dragan Solak, through his Sport Republic investment vehicle, acquired an 80% stake in Southampton in January 2022. Solak, who made his fortune in media and telecommunications, has overseen a turbulent period including relegation, promotion via the play-offs, and immediate relegation again. The club's long-term strategy remains focused on the academy and sustainable growth.
Manager
| Name | Position | Since |
|---|---|---|
| Tonda Eckert | Manager | 2025 |
Coaching Staff
| Name | Position | Since |
|---|---|---|
| Paolo Grossi | Assistant Manager | 2025 |
Historical Figures
Owner
Chinese businessman Gao Jisheng acquired an 80% stake in Southampton in 2017. His tenure was largely passive, with limited investment in the squad, and the club's competitive position gradually declined. He sold his majority holding to Sport Republic in 2022.
Owner & Chairman
Swiss businessman Markus Liebherr saved Southampton from administration in 2009 when the club were in League One. His purchase prevented the club from going out of business and laid the groundwork for the revival that would see them return to the Premier League by 2012. Liebherr tragically passed away in August 2010, but his legacy as the man who saved Southampton is deeply cherished.