How do clubs adapt when they sign players such as Neymar

Football is so much more than what happens on the pitch. The transfers, behind the scenes drama and tension is what makes the beautiful game so unique. And for clubs, the objective is to expand their reach across the globe and to build a strong fan following. When clubs sign superstar assets such as Ronaldo, Messi or Neymar, they take all these factors into account…

 

It not only makes for more viewership on matchday, but also leads to more ticket and merchandise sales, which generates more revenue for the club to invest in its various departments. If you’re a football or a Neymar fan looking for a way to spice up your matchday experience, check out Vwin® for the best odds on top leagues from across the world.

 

One of the best ways that football clubs build this strong fan following is by recruiting, or developing star players – who shine on the pitch regularly, and also have a unique aura about them. That’s exactly where Neymar comes in. Now, it’s probably obvious to you how these players can help a club. But, to understand it better, let’s take the help of several examples.

The LaLiga effect: When Spain witnessed Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar

Barcelona and Real Madrid have been rivals for over a century now, and their tensions date back far before Messi, Ronaldo or Neymar were born. But, in the 2010s that’s exactly what the rivalry became about.

 

Two of the best players were going at it every year until 2018 for bragging rights – and you were privileged if you watched it in real time. Neymar joined the discussion a couple years before, but the Ballon d’Or final decision ended up staying between the Portuguese and Argentine players.

 

Both clubs capitalized on the commercial opportunity presented to them very well. Just ask Barcelona and Real Madrid fans what made them support the club. If they’re relatively young, they’ll answer Messi, Ronaldo or Neymar. And that shows you a clear picture of how one big star can help build a fan following for years to come.

 

But, maybe that’s a bit too mainstream since Real Madrid and Barcelona were already big teams. Let’s take a look at another example to drive the point home.

Chelsea’s Golden Generation – Lampard, Drogba, Terry and Cech

Things changed drastically after Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003. Under the Russian oligarch’s ownership, Chelsea transformed from a mid-table club into European heavyweights. With José Mourinho at the helm, success followed the Blues as they established a strong core of players including Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Petr Cech and homegrown defensive legend John Terry.

 

These four players built on Gianfranco Zola’s heroics to make Chelsea a global brand. Just ask young African footballers who their idols were, and almost every other answer will be

Drogba. The Ivorian helped them win their debut Champions League title in 2012 against all odds, and was one of the most feared forwards in the Premier League.

 

This way, Chelsea established a strong presence in Africa, with only one iconic player to start. Their success eventually paved the way for more fan following and recognition across the globe. Today, the club has a brand name of its own – and followed by millions of fans around the world.

Sources: nytimes.com / goal.com