Former England football manager Sven-Goran Eriksson recently passed away leaving behind a staggering amount of debt. Despite amassing significant wealth during his career through managing top football teams, Eriksson faced financial hardships after being scammed out of £100 million. The disclosure of Eriksson’s financial affairs, revealed posthumously, illustrated that at the time of his death, he had debts amounting to 118 million kronor (£8.6m), exceeding his assets worth 66 million kronor. The majority of his debts, approximately SEK 99 million, were attributed to unpaid taxes in the UK.
Eriksson’s financial woes were compounded by a scandal involving his financial advisor, Samir Khan, in 2011. Khan misused his access to Eriksson’s wealth, squandering £10 million on dubious investments, leading to further financial distress. Despite these challenges, Eriksson reflected in a 2013 account that he was not vigilant about money matters, placing trust in his advisor without delving into the specifics of investments. His solicitor acknowledged that it was not unexpected for Eriksson’s family that he left behind a substantial debt, primarily owed to the English tax authorities.
In his will, Eriksson directed that his assets be inherited by his children, Lina and Johan, with a provision to maintain the standard of living for his 95-year-old father, Sven Eriksson senior. Additionally, Eriksson intended to leave a sum to his partner, Yaniseth, and his brother Lars-Erik Eriksson as expressions of gratitude. The costs of Eriksson’s funeral and a headstone amounted to 650,000 kronor (£47,500), with his estate listing indicating the sale of his Björkefors manor by Lake Fryken in Värmland.
Reflecting on Eriksson’s illustrious career, a friend and author, Bengt Berg, recounted his achievements as the former England manager led the team to quarter-final stages in various tournaments and secured Lazio’s Serie A title. Eriksson’s managerial stints included roles at Manchester City and Mexico’s national team. In a poignant message captured in his Prime Video film before his demise due to pancreatic cancer, Eriksson expressed acceptance of life and death, hoping to be remembered as a positive individual who gave his best.
Despite the financial challenges that marked the later part of his life, Sven-Goran Eriksson’s legacy remains rooted in his impactful contributions to football and his enduring optimism. As the football world mourns his passing, Eriksson’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that can accompany a life in the public eye.