Arne Slot’s strong start as Liverpool manager has likely pleased Fenway Sports Group (FSG), but the Reds’ owners are facing challenges across the Atlantic.
FSG has had a mixed relationship with Liverpool’s fanbase. Some supporters view them as responsible stewards who have invested in the club's infrastructure, helping restore its place among Europe’s elite—especially when compared to the disastrous ownership of Tom Hicks and George Gillett. Others, however, feel FSG hasn’t spent enough in the transfer market at crucial moments, missing opportunities to capitalize on the team's success. Under Slot, Liverpool sits at the top of the Premier League after seven games, a point clear of champions Manchester City. While the season is still young, things are looking positive for FSG at Anfield.
However, in Boston, the situation is far less rosy. FSG’s other major sports team, the Boston Red Sox, has missed out on the Major League Baseball (MLB) playoffs for the third consecutive year and the fifth time in six seasons. Once one of the MLB’s most successful teams under FSG, having won four World Series titles in the last 22 years, the Red Sox are now facing growing discontent from fans. After breaking an 86-year World Series drought, FSG’s credit among Red Sox supporters has diminished, with some questioning whether owner John W. Henry still cares about the team’s success.
Addressing these concerns, FSG CEO and Red Sox president Sam Kennedy pushed back on claims that Henry is disengaged. Speaking to MassLive's "Fenway Rundown," Kennedy emphasized that Henry is still deeply involved in the Red Sox’s operations. "I spoke with John just a few hours ago about the 2024-25 Red Sox. We speak almost every day, and he’s very involved in decisions, including with [Chief Baseball Officer] Craig Breslow," Kennedy said. He acknowledged that there’s a perception, often from those not in regular contact with Henry, that the owner is less active, but Kennedy assured fans this wasn’t the case. "John is as passionate as ever about the Red Sox and is very engaged in the team's future."
Kennedy also highlighted the organisation’s optimism about the team’s direction under Breslow, while admitting the disappointment of recent seasons. "John, like all of us, is frustrated by the lack of success over the past few years, but he remains committed to the Red Sox and excited about the future."
There has been frequent speculation that FSG might sell either the Red Sox or Liverpool, particularly after periods of underperformance. Despite these rumours, FSG appears focused on growth rather than divestment. The ownership group has been expanding its sports portfolio, with a football-specific division created and plans to acquire another team. Although talks to purchase French side Bordeaux fell through last summer, FSG continues to look for new opportunities, with a potential NBA franchise in Las Vegas being a likely next step. A bid for the Boston Celtics has been ruled out, as the team is priced at over $5bn, a valuation FSG is not prepared to meet.
For now, FSG remains committed to both the Red Sox and Liverpool, despite the differing fortunes of the two iconic clubs.