Man Utd hero buys beautiful castle on mountaintop – but his plans spark fury

A former Manchester United ace has caused a stir among the residents of a small Italian community after his company snapped up a historic castle with plans to transform it into a luxury hotel.

It has been reported that Javier Hernandez's firm acquired the impressive Castel Madruzzo, with ambitions to convert it into a lush five-star retreat.

The iconic stronghold sits about 12.5 miles from the city of Trento and dates back to the 12th century, serving as a residence for the influential Madruzzo family who ruled the area as prince-bishops.

However, the move by Hernandez's outfit to potentially profit from the site – featuring 30 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms – has sparked controversy locally.

Community members are apprehensive about the hotel's benefits and the proposed revisions to the building's historic interior. Putting emphasis on the castle's significance, local adviser Roberto Stanchina claimed it represents much more than an architectural gem.

Amid these planned alterations, which include installing a lift and a hotel lobby, the redevelopment project will be driven by Trentini Latini. The company was formed in 2023 by the 30-year-old entrepreneur Niccolo de Zambiasi but is predominantly owned by Delaware-based Vultur International, helmed by 36-year-old Hernandez, reports the Express.

Speaking with The Times addressing the uproar regarding the makeover of the castle, de Zambiasi commented: "He [Hernandez] loves Italy and the mountains and had been looking for an opportunity like this for a long time."

Opinions remain split over plans for the stunning castle. Madruzzo's Mayor Michele Bortoli is all for it, saying any investment that "added value to our economy is welcome".

But Franco Marzatico, who leads the local heritage body, insists that they would only accept Trentini Latini's revised proposal if it offers solid guarantees to satisfy the community beyond just making money.

This property venture by Javier Hernandez marks a new chapter following his illustrious football career, which saw him shine at Manchester United, Real Madrid, West Ham United, and LA Galaxy, netting 59 goals and bagging two Premier League titles with the Red Devils.

Now, Hernandez has come full circle, playing for Mexican outfit Guadalajara – the very club where he kicked off his professional journey at the age of just 18.