Milan Mandaric, the former owner and chairman of Portsmouth, Leicester City and Sheffield Wednesday, has died at the age of 87 after a short illness, with clubs paying tribute
Legendary Premier League owner Milan Mandaric has died at the age of 87, with clubs paying tribute.
The Serbian-American businessman owned Leicester City, Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth during a 16-year stint in English football.
Announcing his death in a statement, Mandaric’s family wrote: “The family of Milan Mandaric are deeply saddened to announce his passing earlier today in a Belgrade hospital following a short illness.
“Milan will be fondly remembered as chairman and owner of Portsmouth, Leicester City and Sheffield Wednesday in the UK along with a number of US and European clubs.
“His love for football was only surpassed by that for his family; he will be sadly missed by his two daughters and three grandchildren.
“The family have asked for privacy at this sad time.”
Along with manager Harry Redknapp, he led Pompey to the Premier League in 2003 and even though he had departed by the time they won the FA Cup in 2008, Mandaric was credited for reviving the club’s fortunes.
His success was such that he was given the freedom of the city after their promotion.
They said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chairman, Milan Mandarić, at the age of 87.
“Rest in peace, Milan.”
In 2007, Mandaric took over as owner of Leicester City, and despite relegation to League One in his first season, he worked with manager Nigel Pearson to oversee promotion.
He then moved to his third English club, Sheffield Wednesday.
During a five-year spell, he won promotion back to the Championship before selling to controversial and much-maligned current owner Dejphon Chansiri.
The Owls wrote: “Everyone at Sheffield Wednesday is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former owner and chairman Milan Mandarić.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
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