Nigerian-born Eni Aluko has made history by becoming the first Black female football club owner in Italy. The 37-year-old Nigerian purchased a controlling stake in Italian women’s team Como Women as part of an investment group called Mercury 13.
Mercury 13 plans to invest $100 million to acquire several women’s football teams across Europe and Latin America. Their goal is to grow the teams and get better sponsorship deals through multi-club ownership.
Aluko was born in Lagos, Nigeria before moving to England at 6 months old. She made her football debut for Birmingham City at age 14 and was considered the “Wayne Rooney of women’s football”.
She had a very successful playing career, scoring 33 goals in 102 appearances for the England national team. Aluko played for top clubs like Birmingham City, Chelsea, and Juventus.
In addition to her football career, Aluko studied law at Brunel University, graduating with a first-class degree in 2008. She also completed legal training and worked as an associate consultant.
After retiring in 2020 at age 31, Aluko moved into broadcasting and executive roles with teams like Angel City FC and Aston Villa. But ownership was always her main target.
Aluko has also been an activist, speaking out against racism, sexism, and online bullying targeted at her during her career. She has worked with organizations promoting gender equality.
Aluko’s history-making ownership role in Italy reflects the growing opportunities for women in a sport long dominated by men.
