Nassef Sawiris

Nassef Sawiris

Nassef Onsi Sawiris – Executive Chairman, OCI Global Chairman, Aston Villa F.C.,  is an Egyptian businessman, and the youngest of Onsi Sawiris’ three sons (his brothers are Naguib and Samih). As of October 2021, his net worth was estimated at US$8.7 billion, making him the richest Egyptian. In 2018 Nassef struck a deal for the takeover of Aston Villa , alongside business partner Wes Edens. In July 2018, a consortium consisting of Sawiris and fellow billionaire Wes Edens, referring to themselves as NSWE, purchased a 55% controlling stake worth £30m in English Championship club Aston Villa.

Aston Villa Football Club

Aston Villa Football Club, commonly known as Aston Villa, is a professional football club based in Aston, Birmingham, England. Founded in 1874 by members of the Villa Cross Wesleyan Chapel cricket team seeking a winter pastime, Villa is one of England’s oldest and most successful football clubs. The club’s early years were marked by success; they were one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888 and of the Premier League in 1992. Villa Park has been their home since 1897, and the team has a rich history of domestic and European successes, including seven First Division titles, seven FA Cups, and one European Cup⁷.

Throughout its history, Aston Villa has been known for its contributions to the development of football. George Ramsay, the world’s first professional football manager, was appointed in 1886 and introduced a short, quick passing game that became a hallmark of the club. William McGregor, a Villa director, was instrumental in founding the Football League. The club’s dominance in the Victorian era was significant, with a trophy haul that established them as England’s most successful club until the 1970s⁷.

However, the club has also experienced periods of decline. The mid-1930s saw a downturn in fortunes, and the 1960s culminated in a relegation to the third tier of English football. Despite this, Villa has shown resilience, returning to the top flight and achieving success under managers like Ron Saunders in the 1980s. More recently, the club has faced challenges but remains a staple in the Premier League, continuing to contribute to the rich tapestry of English football.