Ole Gunnar Solskjaer invests in esports management agency

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has acquired a 12.5% stake in Norwegian esport company Ulti Agency.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer acquires stake in esports management agency

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the manager of Manchester United, has taken a significant step into the esports world by acquiring a 12.5% stake in Ulti Agency, a Norwegian esports management firm. This investment marks his entry into a rapidly growing industry, reflecting his long-standing passion for gaming. In a press release, Solskjaer noted the increasing popularity of esports and the potential it holds, saying, "Esports have become bigger than anyone would have dared to predict just a few years ago." The agency currently focuses on managing professional CS:GO players, similar to traditional football management. Alongside Solskjaer, his agent, Jim Solbakken, has also obtained a 12.5% ownership in the agency, indicating a strong commitment to the future of esports. Ulti Agency’s Chief Executive Asgeir Kvalvik expressed excitement about the new partnership, stating that the experience of the new owners will help propel the agency forward.

Solskjaer's investment highlights a significant trend where traditional sports figures are increasingly entering the esports arena. This merger of sports and esports showcases a recognition of the immense growth in the gaming sector. As more soccer clubs explore esports opportunities, the involvement of well-known figures can attract attention and potentially elevate the industry’s credibility. However, this also raises questions about how traditional sports management practices will adapt to the distinct culture and needs of esports. Solskjaer's move may encourage other prominent players in sports to consider similar investments, reinforcing the crossover between these two worlds.

Highlights

The expansion into esports may reshape how traditional sports figures engage with digital entertainment.