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18 February 2024 - 4:30 PM

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Imago | German fans are world famous for their passionate support.

Analysis: Bundesliga clubs mull breakaway league amid CVC withdrawal speculation

  • German football faces another potential collapse in private equity deal negotiations, marking the third such instance in recent years.
  • DFL leadership brokered a deal balancing fan and investor interests, injecting significant funds into the league while safeguarding core German football values. However, ultras protest without presenting an alternative plan.
  • Why it matters: LaLiga and Ligue 1 secured deals with private equity firm CVC Capital Partners, contrasting with DFL's likely third failed investment attempt.
  • The perspective: Many German clubs, after showing patience and respect towards smaller counterparts, may proceed independently if the deal falls through and the Bundesliga-clubs might disunite from the 2. Bundesliga clubs.

On Friday morning, Hans-Joachim Watzke, chairman of the DFL supervisory board and longstanding CEO of Borussia Dortmund, sought to foster unity in German football.

He emphasized the importance of respecting differing opinions on the investment process, stating, "We must remain respectful and avoid further escalation," ahead of the weekend's matches, anticipating continued protests.

Despite Watzke's rem

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