Leeds United teed up for 49ers Enterprises show of force they have been waiting for

Paraag Marathe and Morrie Eisenberg are two of the key figures at Leeds United -Credit:MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Paraag Marathe and Morrie Eisenberg are two of the key figures at Leeds United -Credit:MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images


Muscles at 49ers Enterprises were tentatively flexed during Leeds United’s latest transfer windows, but Sunday’s Championship play-off final could be their first real show of force. The Whites head to Wembley with the eyes of the world watching the most lucrative football match on the planet and that makes it an opportunity not to be missed.

Up to now, we have seen limited exposure for the club’s numerous high-profile investors. We know the 49ers investment vehicle has lured some of the richest and most successful people in their fields to join forces.

However, beyond the board members, Paraag Marathe, Peter Lowy and Rudy Cline-Thomas, the only high-profile investor spotted at Elland Road has been Russell Westbrook. The basketball star is among the best-known names in the NBA and might well be tempted to show his support again on Sunday.

READ MORE: Leeds United make rare training ground move ahead of historic Wembley final

Whenever names like Westbrook are quizzed on their Leeds allegiances by the media, they all show their desire to watch games in person when their schedules allow. Sunday in London, at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, where a trophy could be lifted to secure Premier League football, seems like a very attractive opportunity.

Will Ferrell is already confirmed to attend according to one national newspaper, but could he be joined by fellow Hollywood star Russell Crowe? Jordan Spieth is scheduled to be playing a golf tournament in the USA, but compatriot Justin Thomas is not on the same entry list and could be available.

T.J. McConnell is scheduled to be playing over the weekend with Indiana Pacers, but fellow basketball star Larry Nance Jr. has already indicated on social media his flight is booked. Michael Phelps has long since retired from swimming and, given how supportive he has been on Instagram, could be tempted by a simple flight into the capital to see his investment on the field.

If the Leeds fans can see at least some combined might of the investors backing this 49ers vision it’s going to feel special. After years of names in the shadows, Sunday can be that showcase, in the stands, for what this ownership group really looks like in the flesh for the Whites.