Eniola Aluko, a Nigerian-born British former sports director for Aston Villa and Angel City in England, has made history by becoming the first African female to join the board of FC Como Women, Italy’s top-flight women’s football club. This remarkable achievement places her at the forefront of a growing movement to elevate women’s football globally.
Eniola, a former player for Chelsea’s women’s team and the UK national team, has long been a trailblazer in the sports world. After retiring from playing, she transitioned into sports management and has become a prominent advocate for women in football.
Aluko is a member of Mercury/13, an investment group focused on the development of women’s football clubs. Recently, Mercury/13 made headlines by finalizing its $100 million acquisition of FC Como Women, securing a controlling stake in the team, which competes in Italy’s Serie A.
Her role on the board of FC Como Women is a historic milestone not just for African women in football but for the entire sports industry. It signals a new era where more women, particularly women of African descent, are taking on influential leadership roles in major global football institutions.
Eniola’s groundbreaking achievement underscores the importance of diverse representation in sports leadership and the continuous fight for equal opportunities for women athletes.
Nigeria and the global sports community are incredibly proud of Eniola’s achievements, and her success continues to inspire future generations of women in football.
Nigeria is proud of you, Eniola!