Why this is worth 60 seconds of your time:
How private capital is professionalizing clubs with billion‑euro revenues and lean staffing
Why private credit is the preferred tool for cash flow and risk management
Berkida Ventures was founded in 2024.
Before, Massimo led Aser Ventures as CEO & Managing Partner, overseeing the disposals of Eleven Sports to DAZN Group and Leeds United to 49ers Enterprises.
This week we spoke with Massimo Marinelli: Founder and Managing Partner of Berkida Ventures, senior advisor to 49ers Enterprises, board observer at AC Monza, and former board member of Leeds United.
👇 How Massimo explains Professionalization & Private Credit as future of sports investment
📌 What Makes This Valuable
1. Clubs generate €500m+ revenues with fewer than 500 staff = Opportunity for operational efficiencies through better reporting, HR systems, and analytics.
2. Debt = Predictable cash flow because receivables are paid quarterly. Private credit offers lower risk and faster distributions than equity.
3. Corporate Venture Arms = Clubs formalize Clubs formalize investment vehicles for proprietary access to sports tech and consumer innovation.
4. Picks & Shovels Investing = Provides stable returns from companies that supply essential infrastructure (pitch maintenance, logistics, ticketing) and scale with every matchday.
🎯 Massimo on Private Credit
“Private credit is not just about transfer receivables. Investors can structure acquisition facilities, synthetic revolving cash‑flow lines, or even lending against future earnings of athletes. These tools give predictable returns and clubs the liquidity they need.”
Best,
Edoardo Grandi
