Jill Scott, the Lionesses legend, has been appointed Chief Women’s Football Advisor at Salford City Lionesses. This significant move comes as insurance giant AIG, a former Manchester United kit sponsor, makes a substantial investment in the club’s women’s team, marking the first time a Fortune 500 company has taken a stake in an English women’s football club, as reported by Business Live.

AIG’s Landmark Investment and Scott’s New Role

AIG’s investment further deepens its existing partnership with Salford City, the club famously co-owned by former Manchester United legends Gary Neville and David Beckham. The firm became Salford City’s largest shareholder last year and holds front-of-shirt, training kit, and stadium sponsorship rights for the wider club. The specific financial terms of the agreement and the extent of AIG’s shareholding in the Lionesses have not been made public, according to Business Live.

In her new role, Jill Scott will play a pivotal part in shaping the technical programme for the Salford City Lionesses and Academy teams. She will also support the development of players and coaching staff as the club aims to climb the women’s football pyramid, GB News confirmed.

Gary Neville expressed gratitude for the commitment, stating, "We’re fortunate to have the backing of a world-class brand, which will be right behind our Women’s and Men’s teams in their next chapter." Eric Andersen, AIG President, added that the investment "reflects AIG’s long-term commitment to advancing opportunities for women in business, sport and society." The partnership will also see Salford City introduce an "AIG blue" change strip.

Ambitions for the Lionesses

Salford City Lionesses were established in 2018 and currently compete in the fifth tier of English women’s football, yet to replicate the men’s side’s significant ascent into the professional game. Scott, who already appears alongside Neville on the ‘Stick To Football’ YouTube show, voiced her excitement about the challenge. She stated: "I’m incredibly excited to be stepping into this new role, helping to drive the Lionesses forward and achieve our powerful ambitions." She added that with AIG’s backing, she has "no doubt that the years ahead will be some of our most memorable yet!"

Scott brings a wealth of experience from her distinguished playing career, which included spells with Everton and Manchester City. She earned 161 caps for the England Lionesses and was a key part of the squad that won the European Championship in 2022 before her retirement. Since then, she has built a successful media career and won I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2022.

Wider Club Context

The men’s side of Salford City, under the ownership of the Class of ’92 figures including Neville, Beckham, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, and Phil Neville, has enjoyed a remarkable journey, rising from the eighth tier into the Football League after their takeover in 2014. They have spent eight consecutive seasons in League Two, where they currently sit 15th after five matches. Paul Scholes continues to oversee recruitment for the men’s club, as detailed by GB News. The increased focus on the women’s operation signifies a new chapter for the wider club.