The 1998 World Cup winner and two-time Champions League winner

The 1998 World Cup winner and two-time Champions League winner has opened a new chapter in his football journey. By acquiring 37.5% of the historic Italian club based in Sanremo, Karembeu is not limiting himself to an honorary role. On the contrary, he is becoming deeply involved in a long-term project that aims to bring the club back to professional football.

As reported by Footmercato, the Frenchman has always been a cosmopolitan figure by nature and through his career, with spells at Nantes, Sampdoria, Real Madrid, and Olympiacos. Karembeu has always viewed football as more than just a sport: as a means of expression, a social bond, and a tool for creation. It is no coincidence that he chose Sanremo—a city with a distinct identity, history, and a strong connection to its local team—to invest in a project that seeks to remain authentic and human.

The official announcement of his involvement with Sanremese came as part of a broader restructuring of the club’s administrative framework. President Alessandro Masu remains at the helm, ensuring continuity, while Karembeu takes on the role of vice president, bringing with him international experience, expertise, and a strong network of contacts. The new management structure also includes Pierre Issa as sporting advisor from 2026 and Theodoros Ornithopoulos in organizational matters, with Andrea Bortolazzi remaining as general manager and Vincenzo Stragapente heading the academy.

According to the report, Karembeu is already actively involved in strategic decision-making. Infrastructure is high on the agenda, with plans to upgrade the Stadio Comunale di Sanremo and improve the facilities in cooperation with the municipality. At the same time, the objective is clear: steady growth, strengthening of the first team, and a return to the professional divisions—without losing the bond with the city and its people.

Founded in 1904, Sanremese has experienced great moments as well as difficult periods, with fluctuations between divisions and a constant struggle for survival. It is precisely this journey that aligns with Karembeu’s philosophy: to build with patience, draw strength from history, and restore pride to a shirt.