
Death-Obituary-Cause of death news: Milan Mandarić Tribute, Football Chairman Legacy, EFL Club Leadership
Milan Mandarić: A Tribute to a Football Legend
Former chairman of Leicester City, Portsmouth, and Sheffield Wednesday, Milan Mandarić, has passed away at the age of 87 following a short illness. His contributions to English football are immeasurable, and his dedication to the clubs he helmed has left a lasting impact on the sport. This summary aims to commemorate Mandarić’s life, his achievements, and the legacy he leaves behind in the world of football.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1936 in the former Yugoslavia, Milan Mandarić moved to the United States in the 1950s. He initially pursued a career in business before turning his attention to football. His passion for the sport led him to invest in various clubs, where he quickly made a name for himself as a committed and visionary chairman.
Leicester City
Milan Mandarić’s tenure at Leicester City from 2007 to 2008 was marked by significant challenges and triumphs. He played a crucial role during a turbulent period for the club. Under his leadership, Leicester City experienced an influx of investment, which helped stabilize the club financially. Although his time at the helm was relatively short, Mandarić laid the groundwork for the club’s future successes, including their miraculous Premier League title win in 2016.
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Portsmouth
Mandarić’s most notable achievements came during his time at Portsmouth, where he served as chairman from 1999 to 2006. Under his stewardship, Portsmouth achieved promotion to the Premier League in 2003. This success culminated in an unforgettable FA Cup victory in 2008, marking the first major trophy for the club in 69 years. Mandarić’s vision and commitment to fostering talent within the club helped shape Portsmouth into a competitive side in the Premier League.
Sheffield Wednesday
Milan Mandarić’s influence extended to Sheffield Wednesday, where he served as chairman from 2010 until 2015. During his time with the Owls, Mandarić focused on restoring the club’s former glory. He invested in players and facilities, aiming to bring Sheffield Wednesday back to the top tier of English football. His passion for the club was evident, and he worked tirelessly to reconnect the team with its passionate fanbase.
Legacy and Contributions
Milan Mandarić’s contributions to football extend beyond his roles at the clubs he chaired. His commitment to fostering community and supporting local initiatives exemplified his belief in the power of football to unite people. Mandarić was known for his approachable demeanor, often engaging with fans and showing appreciation for their unwavering support.
His legacy is not just in the trophies won or the promotions achieved but in the lives he touched through his philanthropic efforts. Mandarić was instrumental in various charitable initiatives, leveraging his position to give back to the communities surrounding the clubs he loved.
A Reminder of His Impact
The news of Milan Mandarić’s passing has sent shockwaves through the football community. Tributes have poured in from fans, players, and fellow officials, all recognizing his immense contributions to the sport. His unwavering passion for football and dedication to the clubs he served will be remembered fondly by fans across the country.
As football continues to evolve, the values that Mandarić embodied—integrity, commitment, and community—remain at the heart of the sport. His influence will continue to resonate within the clubs he touched, serving as a reminder of the positive impact that football can have on individuals and communities alike.
Conclusion
Milan Mandarić’s life was a testament to the power of football to inspire, unite, and uplift communities. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will endure through the clubs he cherished and the lives he changed. As fans reflect on his contributions, it is essential to celebrate the passion and dedication that Mandarić brought to the beautiful game.
In this time of mourning, let us remember Milan Mandarić not just for the clubs he led but for the profound impact he had on the sport and the communities he served. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder of how one individual can leave a lasting legacy in the world of football.
Milan Mandarić, rest in peace. Your contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.

Shock in Football: Milan Mandarić Passes at 87!
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Former Leicester City, Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday chairman Milan Mandarić has died at age of 87 following a short illness.
RIP, Milan.#LCFC #Pompey #SWFC pic.twitter.com/CUZdxW7qsn
— The Championship Chat Podcast (@Champchatpod24) October 4, 2025
Former Leicester City, Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday Chairman Milan Mandarić Has Died at Age of 87 Following a Short Illness
It is with a heavy heart that we reflect on the life and contributions of Milan Mandarić, the former chairman of Leicester City, Portsmouth, and Sheffield Wednesday, who passed away at the age of 87 after a brief illness. His passing marks the end of an era for many fans, players, and staff who had the privilege of working alongside him in various capacities throughout his illustrious career. Mandarić was not just a businessman; he was a passionate football figure who loved the game and dedicated his life to its growth.
Milan Mandarić was born in 1936 in the former Yugoslavia, a country that has produced many remarkable talents in the world of sports. He moved to the United States in the 1950s, where he eventually became involved in football club ownership. His journey in the football world began in the 1990s when he took ownership of the then-struggling Portsmouth Football Club. As chairman, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the club, lifting it from the lower divisions to the Premier League. This transformation won him the admiration of many fans who still hold a special place in their hearts for his contributions to the club.
RIP, Milan
Mandarić’s tenure at Portsmouth was marked by highs and lows, but his unwavering commitment to the club never wavered. He famously led Portsmouth to their FA Cup victory in 2008, a monumental achievement that remains one of the club’s proudest moments. It wasn’t just about the trophies; it was about how he brought the community together, fostering a love for the club that transcended generations. His passion for football was infectious, and he was known for his hands-on approach, often seen interacting with fans and players alike.
After his time at Portsmouth, Mandarić moved on to take the helm at Leicester City. Here, again, he faced challenges but ultimately helped guide the club through a period of significant change. His leadership was essential in securing the club’s financial stability, and he played a crucial role in laying the foundation for Leicester’s future successes, including their remarkable Premier League win in 2016. Although he stepped away before that iconic season, his influence and impact on the club remain undeniable.
#LCFC
Mandarić’s story is also deeply intertwined with Sheffield Wednesday. He took over the club in 2010, bringing with him the same tenacity and vision that had characterized his previous roles. His time at Sheffield Wednesday was filled with ambition, as he aimed to restore the club to its former glory. While not all endeavors were met with immediate success, his dedication to the club and its supporters never faltered. Many fans appreciated his efforts to improve the club’s standing in English football and his desire to see it thrive.
One of the most admirable qualities of Milan Mandarić was his genuine love for the sport and the communities surrounding the clubs he managed. He often emphasized the importance of connecting with fans, understanding their passions, and sharing in their joys and sorrows. This unwavering connection with the community is something that many fans will remember fondly. Whether it was through community initiatives or simply being present at games, Mandarić showed that football is more than just a game; it’s a way of life.
#Pompey
In addition to his contributions on the field, Mandarić was known for his philanthropic efforts, often supporting various charitable causes. He understood the importance of giving back and used his platform to make a difference in the lives of many. His legacy extends beyond football, embodying the spirit of compassion and community service that many aspire to emulate.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the football world, reflecting the profound impact he had on so many lives. Fans, players, and fellow executives shared their memories of Mandarić, highlighting his kindness, humor, and unwavering commitment to the beautiful game. It is a testament to the man he was and the legacy he leaves behind.
#SWFC
In remembering Milan Mandarić, we celebrate not just his achievements as a football club chairman but also the man who dedicated his life to the sport he loved. His influence on Leicester City, Portsmouth, and Sheffield Wednesday will be felt for years to come, as his contributions have left an indelible mark on these clubs and their communities.
Football is often described as a family, and Milan Mandarić was a cherished member of that family. His passion, commitment, and love for the game will be remembered fondly by fans and players alike. As we reflect on his life, we can take solace in knowing that his spirit will live on in the clubs he helped shape and the hearts he touched.
In closing, we extend our deepest sympathies to Mandarić’s family, friends, and the countless individuals who had the pleasure of knowing him. The football community has lost a true visionary, and he will be missed dearly. Rest in peace, Milan. Your legacy will forever be a part of the beautiful game.
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