Ex-Prem star joins Italy icon in buying club as part of huge £73m investment plan

MANCHESTER United and Chelsea legend Juan Mata and World Cup winner Giorgio Chiellini have joined forces in a takeover of WSL2 side Bristol City.

The duo are part of Mercury 13, who have acquired a majority stake in the second-tier side from the Lansdown family this week.

3 Multi-club ownership group Mercury 13 has taken over Bristol City Credit: Getty

3 Giorgio Chiellini became an investor last September Credit: Getty

3 Former Premier League star Juan Mata has also invested in Mercury 13 Credit: Getty

The deal has been described by the Robins as "the first of its kind" in English women's football.

It sees Bristol City become the second club purchased by Mercury 13 following the acquisition of Serie A side Como Women last year.

The multi-club ownership group is prepared to invest around £73million ($100m) in women's clubs, with more expected to be added in the coming years.

Under the new ownership, Bristol City will retain its branding and continue to play at Ashton Gate.

Steve Lansdown, the previous owner, will keep a minority share in the women's team.

His Bristol Sport Group (BSG) will retain control of the men's team, as well as rugby union club Bristol Bears and basketball side Bristol Flyers.

Mercury 13 currently has two famous investors from the world of football in Chiellini and Mata .

Italy legend Chiellini joined the project last September, with former Man United and Chelsea ace Mata following suit in June.

Both could now make an appearance at Ashton Gate in the near future amid their involvement with City.

Mercury 13 co-founder Victoire Cogevina Reynal said: "They’re incredible footballers, but they’re also incredible human beings who truly believe in what we’re building.

"They’ve been very helpful behind the scenes for Como and I’m sure they will do the same for Bristol City."

The name Mercury 13 is a nod to the 13 women prevented from entering NASA's space training programme in the 1960s.

Announcing the takeover, co-founder Mario Malave said: "Bristol City Women represents everything we look for in a club: a rich history; a track record of performance; world-class infrastructure; and incredibly loyal supporters.

"Our entry into the English football pyramid is a major milestone for Mercury13, and one we approach with deep respect and responsibility.

"We’re honoured by the Lansdown family’s trust and are committed to building something special alongside the Bristol community."

Bristol City currently play in the WSL2.

They were last in the WSL in the 2023-24 season but were relegated back down to the second tier after finishing 12th in the table.