Milan Mandaric, the Serbian-American businessman who oversaw Portsmouth’s rise to the Premier League and later held ownership roles at Sheffield Wednesday, has died at the age of 87. His death was announced on October 4, 2025, prompting tributes from both clubs and the wider football community.

Portsmouth Era: A Golden Age

Mandaric’s tenure at Portsmouth, beginning in 1997, is widely regarded as a period of significant growth and achievement. He took over a club in the second tier of English football and, under his leadership, Portsmouth achieved promotion to the Premier League in 2003. The Guardian reported on Portsmouth’s promotion, marking a turning point for the club.

During his time at Fratton Park, Mandaric invested in the squad, bringing in key players and building a competitive team. Portsmouth’s success culminated in winning the FA Cup in 2008, defeating Cardiff City 1-0 at Wembley Stadium. The BBC’s coverage of the 2008 FA Cup Final details the historic victory.

He sold Portsmouth to Sacha Gaydamak in 2006, but remained deeply connected to the club, frequently attending matches and expressing his affection for the fans. In a September 2024 interview with The News, Mandaric stated, “I will never forget that time at Portsmouth – the greatest time in my life… I don’t have to think about it at all, there is only one – that’s Pompey.” He attributed his fondness to “their affection for their team” and his desire to “help their club out for them to be happier.”

Sheffield Wednesday and Beyond

Following his departure from Portsmouth, Mandaric acquired Sheffield Wednesday in 2010. He is credited with “beaming new light into Hillsborough” and helping the club navigate a period of distress. Under his ownership, wednesday secured promotion to the Championship in the 2011-12 season.

Mandaric continued his involvement in football after leaving Sheffield Wednesday, holding positions at Slovenian club Olimpija Ljubljana and Serbian superliga side Vojvodina in his hometown of Novi Sad. Transfermarkt provides a profile of Milan Mandaric’s career, detailing his various roles in football management and ownership.

Tributes and Legacy

News of Mandaric’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from both Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday. Portsmouth released a statement expressing their sadness and acknowledging his significant contribution to the club’s history. Sheffield Wednesday also issued a statement, recognizing his impact on the club during his five-year tenure.