Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has transformed his post-football career into a remarkable success, amassing a net worth of over £4.3 billion. This figure is more than seven times the net worth of his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, which currently stands at approximately £600 million. Saha, now 47, played for Manchester United from 2004 to 2008, earning a reputation as a skilled forward, despite battling injuries throughout his tenure.
During his time at Old Trafford, Saha secured two Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and a League Cup under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson. He scored a total of 42 goals in 124 appearances for the club. After retiring from professional football in 2013, Saha ventured into the business world, where he has achieved significant success with his company, AxisStars.
Business Success Following Football Career
AxisStars, co-founded by Saha and Kate Hamer, focuses on connecting professional athletes and entertainers with trusted partners and peers. The firm has quickly established itself as a leader in this niche, boasting connections with over 550 former athletes. Their mission is to support public figures in navigating their careers after sports, utilizing Saha’s extensive experience in the field.
The company’s website highlights Saha’s transition into business, stating, “Since hanging up his boots, Louis has moved into the world of business where he has used his experience to develop propositions to support athletes and other people in the public eye.” His entrepreneurial journey has proven to be more lucrative than his time on the pitch, with Saha acknowledging in an interview with The Guardian that the satisfaction derived from helping others surpasses any achievement in football.
Saha frequently receives inquiries from individuals seeking his guidance, illustrating his ongoing influence in the sports community. He shared an example of how he assisted a young French footballer looking to join a club in England, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing talent. “If I can help 100,000 people, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” he remarked.
Character and Integrity on and off the Pitch
Saha’s journey to wealth has not been without its challenges. He has shown remarkable character and integrity throughout his career. In one notable instance, he offered to forfeit £180,000 in wages to prove his fitness to Everton before signing with the club. The striker proposed to waive his £45,000-per-week salary while recovering from a knee injury. Despite his willingness, then-manager David Moyes declined the offer, highlighting Saha’s determination and commitment to his career.
Reflecting on his time at Everton, where he scored 35 goals in four seasons, Saha remarked, “That was something I did say to Everton, but it didn’t happen.” His resilience in the face of setbacks has shaped his approach to both sport and business.
Saha’s remarkable story serves as an inspiration, illustrating how a successful transition from sports to entrepreneurship is possible. His ability to leverage his experiences and connections has not only built a thriving business but also positioned him as a respected figure in the industry.
