Giorgio Chiellini has made the transition from ex-player to part owner at Los Angeles FC, a leading MLS club.
The 40-year-old, who hung up his boots in December 2023 following 45 appearances in the heart of defense for LAFC, has been back at Juve since last year.
Chiellini played for the Bianconeri for 18 years and was a serial winner, picking up five Coppa Italia trophies and nine consecutive Serie A titles, to become a legend for Juventus and the Azzurri.
He was lured back to Juventus as head of football institutional relations but, following the exit of sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, was promoted to a new role of director of football strategy.
MLS connection benefits Juve
Chiellini reports directly to recently installed managing director Damien Comolli, although he will now have to juggle his duties on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
Chiellini’s role with the Bianconeri also includes the duties of technical director. He steers the football strategy, which includes overseeing the integration of the Juventus Next Gen players into the senior side.
Although his duties do not extend to player transfers or training sessions, Chiellini can potentially sniff out new talent from the US top tier and suggest that Juventus send scouts.
He has strong knowledge of the MLS, having turned out for LAFC for two seasons. He has now invested an undisclosed sum into the club.
Chiellini is latest star at LAFC
There are three managing owners at LAFC, with Chiellini joining the lengthy list of famous faces from entertainment and sport that include former basketball icon Magic Johnson and Hollywood star Will Ferrell.
Chiellini explained at the press conference to announce his return to LAFC: “The LAFA ownership group is a great honour for me. It is an ambitious organisation, built by extraordinary people and supported by a community that truly makes you feel at home.
“When I arrived here three years ago as a player, I immediately felt that there was something special about this club. That is why, last year, I expressed my desire to become an owner. Now I’m proud to continue this journey and give my support to a project I deeply believe in.”