David Villa’s entry into the Atlético de Madrid board of directors coincides with the biggest changes in the club’s structure in recent years. After Apollo Global Management acquired a controlling stake, the club’s financial flows and management decisions have come under close scrutiny. Villa, known not only for his football achievements but also for his extensive entrepreneurial activity, now influences the strategy of one of Spain’s most popular clubs.
According to RUSSPAIN, American fund Apollo has become the owner of 55% of Atlético’s shares, leading to a redistribution of roles among shareholders. The Israeli group Quantum, previously in a leading position, now controls only a quarter of the capital. Despite the change of main investor, key club figures — Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and Enrique Cerezo — have retained their positions, and the board of directors has expanded with five new members, including Villa.
Business empire
Since ending his playing career in 2019, David Villa has built a complex network of companies. His portfolio includes 120 different roles, 76 of which are management positions, with the rest related to legal and financial support. Such scale is rare among former athletes, setting Villa apart from other ex-footballers.
The key asset became DV7 Group, founded together with Victor Oñate. This organization promotes young talent, runs football academies, and manages the careers of players and coaches. DV7 Group operates not only in Spain but also in the USA and owns a football club from Benidorm, which aims to reach the professional level.
Investments and technology
Villa actively invests in real estate through companies such as Inversiones Villa y González SL and Viesques 2022 SL, where his wife Patricia González plays a significant role. In addition, he is involved in managing Villa & Oñate Holding SL, which coordinates international projects.
The technology sector has also attracted attention. Villa is on the management team of SocialDiabetes SL, a developer of diabetes management apps, and supports startups in aerospace technology and digital healthcare solutions. His participation in venture funds such as BCN Health Venture Partners SL, Asabys Partners SGEIC SA, and Necta Investments SCR SA underscores his interest in innovative and fast-growing markets.
Influence on the club
Villa’s appointment to the Atlético board is seen as an effort to blend sports expertise with a business approach. Fans expect not only potential transfers, but also changes to the club’s financial policy. Villa has already announced his intention to contribute to Atlético’s development and strengthen its position on the European stage.
At the same time, according to RUSSPAIN.COM, such large-scale business involvement can serve both as an advantage and a source of new challenges for the club. Questions about transparency and management efficiency remain unresolved, especially following the recent capitalization of 100 million euros.
Alongside his work on the board, Villa continues to participate in football-related events, including veteran matches and expert commentary on sports platforms. His name remains well-known not only among fans but also in business circles.
David Villa is a figure who has long gone beyond the boundaries of the football pitch. His career path is reminiscent of other well-known athletes who have successfully built careers outside of sports. For example, Raúl made a similar transition from sports to business, taking up investments and company management after retiring. These examples show that experience gained on the field can lay the groundwork for success in entirely different areas.
