Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has taken a significant step off the pitch by becoming a minority owner of French club Le Mans FC, following an investment in the Ligue 2 side.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Belgian international completed the move through Nxt Play, an investment company he co-founded. The investor group behind the club already includes prominent global sports figures such as tennis legend Novak Djokovic, former Formula One driver Felipe Massa, and Danish racer Kevin Magnussen.

Le Mans are currently enjoying a competitive season, sitting fifth in the Ligue 2 standings and just three points behind leaders ES Troyes AC, a position that keeps their promotion ambitions very much alive.

Courtois’ move follows a growing trend among elite footballers investing in clubs during their playing careers. Notably, his Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé made headlines in 2024 after purchasing French club SM Caen, highlighting a shift in how modern athletes are approaching financial planning and long-term involvement in the sport.

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Courtois’ investment reflects a broader evolution in football, where players are no longer just athletes but also entrepreneurs and future administrators of the game. By entering club ownership while still active, he gains firsthand experience that could shape his post-retirement career, whether in management, administration, or sports business.

It also signals confidence in the growth potential of smaller European clubs. Le Mans may not currently command the global attention of top-tier teams, but strategic investments, strong management, and promotion opportunities could significantly raise their profile. Having globally recognized athletes involved can also boost sponsorship appeal and international visibility.

More importantly, moves like this challenge the traditional narrative that footballers wait until retirement to transition into leadership roles. Instead, today’s stars are building legacies both on and off the field simultaneously. If Le Mans succeeds in its promotion push, Courtois’ early involvement could prove not only financially rewarding but historically significant in his journey within football.