London (AFP)
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, the son of the former owner of Olympique de Marseille, became Thursday, at 23, the youngest president of an English football club by completing the takeover of Sunderland, which plays in the third division.
The transaction was finalized after the agreement of the English Football League (EFL), which manages the professional leagues in lower divisions than the Premier League.
Robert Louis-Dreyfus' son began to take control in December.
He made his first public appearance since the buyout was announced on Christmas Eve last week in the 2-1 loss to Shrewsbury.
"I am proud to become a goalkeeper of this highly esteemed institution but I am aware of the important responsibilities that this represents," he said, saying he was confident that he could "put in place solid foundations to bring the club long-term success ".
Former Sunderland owner Stewart Donald retains a minority stake.
He failed to turn the club around after the descent to D3 (League One) in 2018, just one year after relegation from the Premier League in 2017.
Winner of the FA Cup in 1973, Sunderland had just spent ten seasons in the Premier League.
"Kyril's commitment, his insight and his honesty convinced us to accept his proposal," reacted Stewart Donald.
Sunderland is currently 7th in the English D3, just one point behind the last play-off place for the climb, and hopes to move up next season in the Championship (D2).
Louis-Dreyfus Junior already has a guaranteed trip to Wembley with his new club for the final of the Football League Trophy.
Sunderland qualified on penalties on Wednesday against Lincoln.
© 2021 AFP