Giants’ Manning, Guelli join Gotham FC ownership (slideshow)

Women’s Professional Soccer League club NJ/NY Gotham FC added former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning and that team’s current chief commercial officer Pete Guelli as minority club owners, it announced Aug. 10.

Manning and Guelli join club ownership months after professional soccer player Carli Lloyd signed on as minority owner in April.

“I have lived and worked in this community for almost two decades,” said Manning. “It’s home to me, and Gotham FC is my family’s favorite soccer club. Combine that with the organization’s strong leadership, talented roster, and sustained growth, and it became clear that joining this great group was a fantastic opportunity.”

Guelli said, “I’ve spent my career developing and elevating sports brands, and I’m confident Gotham FC is on the verge of becoming a pillar of the New Jersey and New York sports market. This club has assembled talented and dedicated ownership group, and I look forward to offering my perspective as we work together to build something special.”

Manning retired from the National Football League in January 2020 after a 16-season career with the New York Giants. He won the Super Bowl twice and holds the Giants’ franchise records for passing yards, touchdown passes and completions. In 2016, Manning won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for spearheading Hackensack University Medical Center’s “Tackle Kids’ Cancer” campaign along with other children’s health initiatives.

“Eli is known for the positive and influential impact he has on our communities,” said Club Chair and New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy. “His legendary work-ethic, drive for success, and passion for giving back to the community will be tremendous assets for our club. Pete brings a depth of sports acumen that will bolster all we are working to achieve. It’s my honor to welcome them both to the Gotham FC family.”

Guelli has been a sports executive for more than two decades. Prior to joining the Giants, he spent 11 years with the Buffalo Bills and was the executive vice president and chief operating officer of the National Basketball League’s Charlotte Hornets.

“Having two people with track records like Eli and Pete recognize the value of our club and the strength of our brand speaks volumes about Gotham FC’s upward trajectory,” said Managing Owner Ed Nalbandian. “Their investment, influence, and additional resources will allow us to be even more successful on and off the field.”

Gotham will kick off against the Orlando Pride at 7 p.m. on Aug. 20 at Subaru Park in Chester, Pa.