Man United cult hero buys 30-bedroom castle on mountain – not everyone's happy
A company linked to the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and West Ham striker has bought the stunning castle, but its plans to redevelop it have not gone down well with everyone
A former Manchester United star has sparked fury by purchasing an entire castle, with intentions to convert it into a luxury hotel.
Reports have surfaced that a company owned by the ex-Red Devils forward Javier Hernandez has snapped up Castel Madruzzo, aiming to transform it into a five-star lodging.
The historic fortress, situated a mere 12.5 miles (20km) from Trento, was erected in the 12th century and served as a stronghold for the Madruzzo family, who were prince-bishops of the area. .
Nevertheless, Hernandez's firm is reportedly looking to monetise the edifice, which boasts 30 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, sparking discontent among locals concerned about the hotel's contribution to their community and potential alterations to the castle's interior.
Emphasising the significance of Castel Madruzzo, local councillor Roberto Stanchina remarked that it represents more than just a castle. Proposed modifications include the installation of an elevator and a hotel lobby as part of the refurbishment scheme.
The renovation project would be spearheaded by Trentini Latini, a company founded in 2023 by the 30 year old Niccolo de Zambiasi but is 95 percent under the control of Delaware-based Vultur International, steered by the 36 year old Hernandez.
Addressing the furore surrounding the planned changes to the property, de Zambiasi told The Times: "He [Hernandez] loves Italy and the mountains and had been looking for an opportunity like this for a long time."
The debate over the castle's redevelopment is not straightforward, with opinions divided. Madruzzo's Mayor Michele Bortoli has welcomed any investment that boosts the local economy, saying "added value to our economy is welcome".
On the other hand, Franco Marzatico, who leads the local heritage body, stated that a modified proposal from Trentini Latini could be approved provided it offers solid guarantees to meet community needs and not just focus on profit-making.
This foray into property and hotel development by Hernandez comes after an illustrious football career, during which he played for top clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, West Ham United, and LA Galaxy, netting 59 goals for Manchester United and contributing to two Premier League title wins.
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Hernandez is currently back at Guadalajara, the Mexican team where he began his professional journey at the tender age of 18.