Former Brazil star Alexandre Rodrigues da Silva, known as Pato, has joined the board of Northampton Town, a struggling League Two club. The 37-year-old forward, who played 17 years and scored 145 league goals, made his name at Internacional and AC Milan before moving through clubs including Chelsea, Villarreal and São Paulo. He announced his investment inspired by his childhood love of the club's badge on PlayStation, saying, 'I played as Northampton on video games when I was younger, and right now I am here!' Pato is the global face of Sports Alpha Capital, the new owners who have transformed Sixfields Stadium and are working to restore the club's legacy.
Northampton, founded in 1884, famously made the fastest descent and ascent between English league divisions in the 1960s. After watching from the stands as the Cobblers beat Colchester 2-0 to move out of the relegation zone, Pato pledged to develop the players, town and community. The investment comes as the club emerges from relegation struggles, with new ownership aiming to build on its rich history and create a bright future for the 'Shoe Army' fanbase.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing