Milan Mandaric
Milan Mandaric
Full Name and Common Aliases
Milan Mandaric is a Serbian entrepreneur and businessman, best known for his involvement in various football clubs.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on June 30, 1931, in Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia), Mandaric passed away on March 11, 2020.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Mandaric held Serbian nationality and worked as a businessman and entrepreneur throughout his life. He was involved in various industries, including football, media, and construction.
Early Life and Background
Milan Mandaric was born into a humble family in Belgrade. His early life was marked by the aftermath of World War II, which left Yugoslavia in ruins. Despite these challenges, Mandaric's family managed to provide him with an education, which he used to pursue his passion for business.
Mandaric began his entrepreneurial journey in the 1950s, starting small businesses that focused on import and export. He quickly gained a reputation as a shrewd businessman, known for his ability to identify opportunities and capitalize on them.
Major Accomplishments
Mandaric's most notable accomplishments came in the world of football. In the 1970s and 1980s, he became involved with several clubs, including Millwall FC, Queens Park Rangers FC, Sheffield Wednesday FC, and Portsmouth FC. Under his leadership, these clubs experienced significant improvements in their performances and financial stability.
One of Mandaric's most notable achievements was his role in establishing the Football League's Premier Division (now known as the Premier League). He played a key part in shaping the league's structure and governance.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout his career, Mandaric was known for his innovative approach to business. He introduced new marketing strategies, improved stadium infrastructure, and invested heavily in youth development programs.
Mandaric's commitment to football went beyond the pitch. He was a vocal advocate for fair play and sportsmanship, often speaking out against corruption and poor governance within the sport.
Impact and Legacy
Milan Mandaric's impact on football cannot be overstated. His contributions to the Premier League and his influence on the sport's development have left a lasting legacy.
Beyond football, Mandaric's entrepreneurial spirit has inspired countless others to pursue their passions in business. He remains an iconic figure in Serbian culture, celebrated for his resilience, determination, and innovative approach to industry.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mandaric is widely quoted and remembered due to his unique blend of business acumen and passion for football. His quotes often offer insight into the complexities of the sport, as well as practical advice on how to succeed in business.
His legacy extends beyond the football pitch, serving as a reminder that hard work, determination, and innovative thinking can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Quotes by Milan Mandaric
I am a great believer in loyalty, trust and integrity. Gary made a commitment to this club, the supporters and myself and I fully expect him to homour that commitment.
He also has a goal-scoring prowess which has seen him score regularly at every level he has played.
I'd rather buy English players but there is pressure on us to be successful in the short term.
I can't believe Gordon Taylor is singling out Pompey in his views. He should look around the Premier League teams and tell me if we are alone or even the most excessive users of foreign players. We are not.
I rate Alex McLeish very highly and I would love to have the opportunity to speak to him.
I promised fans when I first came here that I would deliver a Premier League team and a stadium to match,
It's not right that they play for 90 minutes and train four or five times a week and then pick up a big salary at the end of it.
It's a tough question. It's a question I ask myself more than often. I don't believe it will come to that.
They're four crucial games for us. We are looking to win six points minimum out of these games. We have got to have 20 points on Boxing Day, including from Boxing Day - that's our goal. Then in January we have a chance to see if we can enhance our quality.