In 2016 Eintracht Frankfurt were minutes away from dropping out of the Bundesliga. A narrow 2-1 aggregate victory over FC Nürnberg in the relegation play-off kept them up, but the episode was a turning point. 

Leadership concluded that to remain competitive, particularly against rivals with deeper pockets, the club would need to change course radically. One of the answer was EintrachtTech, the subsidiary set up to drive innovation and digital growth.

Timm Jäger, The CEO of EintrachtTech from the beginning after previous roles at BMW Group and Boston Consulting Group, explains the challenge. 

“It was quite clear that we were competing with clubs that have a lot more financial resources than we had.”

Competing against richer rivals

The competitive landscape made Eintracht Frankfurt’s position difficult. On one side were the investor-backed projects of clubs such as RB Leipzig, Hoffenheim, Wolfsburg and Leverkusen. On the other, the established heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, with the financial muscle that comes from playing Champions League football year after year. Eintracht, by comparison, had to find alternative ways to keep pace.

As a majority member-owned club, change in their ownership structure was never an option for Eintracht Frankfurt. Jäger stresses that this identity was central to the decision-making. The club are proud of being owned by their members and determined to stay that way. That meant finding new ways to generate revenues and build resilience.

“To improve our financial competitiveness, we decided that we wanted to be more innovative, we wanted to be more digital and focus on new business models, and therefore the idea of EintrachtTech was created.”

A separate entity

EintrachtTech was founded in 2017 as a wholly owned subsidiary. 

“We created a separate entity, so EintrachtTech became a company. It is 100 per cent owned by Eintracht Frankfurt, the football club, but we have our own financial resources and our own personnel,” Jäger says.

Today, EintrachtTech has grown into a business with 20 employees and 13 software developers with a revenue of more than €10 million annually.

The scope was broad. 

The new subsidiary was set up to ensure technical independence, enable data-driven operations and to experiment with business models rooted in digital technology.

For Jäger, achieving that required one foundation: a deep understanding of the fans and their behaviour. At the time, however, Eintracht’s digital environment was fragmented across multiple providers, which made it impossible to get a complete picture.

“You need a good digital infrastructure, and we obviously did not have that at the time,” Jäger recalls. 

Without a unified system, the club lacked oversight of the entire customer journey and had little knowledge of who their fans were or how they engaged across different touchpoints.

“This leads to the fact that most of the time you don't understand the whole customer journey. You don't understand who your fan is and what your fan is doing.”

Initially the club sought third-party solutions but concluded they were not fit for football. 

By 2019/20, the decision was made to build in-house expertise, turning EintrachtTech into a software development company in its own right.

That move allowed Frankfurt to build their own app, ticketing and e-commerce systems within a single framework. 

“In that way it doesn't matter if a fan is interacting via our website or via our app, everything is via one digital platform that basically services all our fans. That is how we got full control of every service that we are offering to our fans and understand fan behaviour.”

New revenue streams

A key element of the project is bringing all supporter data together in one place. By linking information across ticketing, retail and media channels, Eintracht can see each fan’s overall interaction with the club and use that knowledge to personalise both content and advertising.

“We can personalise content and we can personalise advertisement,” says Jäger.

The app became a commercial platform. 

Today, the club uses it not only to serve fans but also as a sales channel, enabling sponsors and partners to sell their products directly within the Eintracht app.

His ambition was clear from the outset.

 “The idea was quite clear from the beginning; to be one of the 4 to 5 apps that every Eintracht Frankfurt fan is using every day.”

Eintracht developed their own digital wallet, Mainpay as they call it, which fans can use in the stadium for purchases like jerseys, drinks or food. Crucially, the solution also works outside the stadium. If a fan uses Mainpay while travelling abroad, the system captures that transaction and enriches the club’s understanding of fan behaviour in everyday life. 

This in turn creates new commercial opportunities, for instance, enabling airline partners to target supporters with tailored offers around holidays and travel. Jäger points out, that this kind of insight is unique in the market.

“This is information that other teams don't have because they don't have the transaction data and behaviour of fans in their daily lives.”

Transparency for fans

Implementing a new system at a traditional football club required more than just the right technology. For Eintracht, it was crucial to be consistently transparent about the process and to make sure fans understood both what was being introduced and why.

“You have to be very transparent and explain to the fans what and why you are doing it.” 

Jäger stresses that open and clear communication was essential to winning acceptance, and without this effort the project would never have secured the same level of support from members and supporters.

Selling to others

EintrachtTech is not only built to serve Eintracht Frankfurt but also to operate as a business.

The subsidiary has now started offering its digital solutions, including the core platform, ticketing, e-commerce and the club app, to other teams and organisations in football and sport. 

The expansion is still at an early stage, and while it is easy to imagine that some rivals might be hesitant to adopt a system associated with Eintracht Frankfurt, three clubs have already signed contracts to implement the digital platform, a development Jäger sees as proof that this is where the future lies.

FIFA has announced that it will allocate a record $355 million to clubs worldwide through its Club Benefits Programme (CBP), in connection with the 2026 World Cup.

This figure represents a substantial increase of nearly 70 per cent from the $209 million after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

For the first time, clubs that release players for World Cup qualifiers will also receive compensation, not just for the finals. This change is part of a broader effort to create a fairer system for global club football, as outlined in a renewed memorandum of understanding signed between FIFA and the European Club Association (ECA).

Infantino and Al-Khelaifi praise the initiative

FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, "The enhanced edition of the FIFA Club Benefits Programme for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is going a step further by recognising financially the huge contribution that so many clubs and their players around the world make to the staging of both the qualifiers and the final tournament."

ECA Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi praised the program as "innovative" and acknowledged that "clubs play a pivotal role in the success of national team football" and that "this initiative recognises every element of it, from early development through to release for the most important games."

Burnley’s £50 million compensation battle with Everton begins this week

Burnley FC have initiated a legal case against Everton FC, seeking £50 million in compensation over claims that Everton breached the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

The case is set to begin this week, with Burnley alleging that Everton's financial misconduct, which led to a points deduction, should have resulted in a penalty at the time of the breach.

Everton was initially docked 10 points, later reduced to six on appeal, for exceeding PSR limits over a three-year period ending in the 2021/22 season. Burnley contends that if Everton had been penalised when the breach occurred, they would not have been relegated.

Behind close doors

The proceedings are taking place behind closed doors at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in St Paul’s, London, meaning the outcome may remain confidential. There is currently no set timeline for a verdict.

Burnley finished the 2021-22 season in 18th place with 35 points, while Everton ended in 16th place with 39 points. Burnley argue that their relegation to the Championship has resulted in a loss of £50 million in revenue, for which they are now seeking compensation from Everton.

Manel del Río appointed as new general manager of FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona have appointed Manel del Río as the club's new general manager, a move that sees an internal promotion for an executive who joined the club in 2022.

Initially brought on board as chief financial officer, del Río later took on the role of corporate director and has now ascended to a position where he will report directly to President Joan Laporta.

According to Mundo Deportivo, del Río's rise within FC Barcelona's ranks places him second in the club's organizational hierarchy. His previous experience includes a stint at Royal Talens, an international company in the paint sector, and work with Pensions & Investment Research Consultants (PIRC).

Vacant since 2022

The general manager role at Barça had been vacant since the departure of Ferran Reverter in February 2022, who left the position just eight months after his appointment.

Alongside del Río's promotion, FC Barcelona is also implementing immediate organisational changes within its management structure.

San Siro sale to AC Milan and Inter Milan agreed upon, says Milan Mayor

According to Giuseppe Sala, the Mayor of Milan, an agreement has been reached for the sale of the San Siro area to the city's two major football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan. The final decision on the sale, however, is contingent upon approval from the City Council.

"Everything is fine. On Wednesday, we should go to the council with the resolution for the sale of San Siro because, in fact, we have reached an agreement with the clubs," Sala said in an interview with RTL 102.5.

The urgency for a new stadium comes as UEFA has indicated that Milan will not be considered for hosting duties at the 2032 European Championship if the current San Siro stadium remains unchanged.

Will vote in favour

Sala outlined that there will be a formal resolution and a proposal on the project presented to the City Council. Given the significance of this asset transfer, it will undergo thorough discussion within committees before a final decision is made.

"I will bring the resolution to the council and support its approval. I will vote in favour, and then it will be up to the City Council to decide," Sala affirmed. He expects all proceedings regarding this matter to conclude by the end of the month.

FC Barcelona stuck at 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff Stadium as Camp Nou renovations drag on

FC Barcelona will play their second La Liga home game of the season at the 6,000-seat Estadi Johan Cruyff due to ongoing delays with the Camp Nou renovations, as confirmed by the club.

Barcelona's match against Getafe on Sunday follows their previous home victory over Valencia at the same venue, typically used by their reserve and women's teams.

The club have not provided a timeline for when they will return to the Camp Nou but are working to secure the necessary administrative permits. Season ticket holders from the past two seasons who missed the Valencia game are being prioritized for tickets to the upcoming Getafe match.

Uncertainty over Champions League

Barcelona have been playing away from their iconic stadium since June 2023 due to the €1.5 billion refurbishment project. They had hoped to open Camp Nou with a reduced capacity for their first home match of this season, but this plan did not come to fruition.

Barcelona's first home Champions League game is scheduled for October 1 against Paris Saint-Germain, and it remains uncertain if Camp Nou will be ready by then.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and FIFPRO President David Terrier have issued a joint call for measures to protect player welfare, highlighting concerns over the packed football schedule.

Their statement follows criticism from Barcelona coach Hansi Flick regarding Spain's medical treatment of Lamine Yamal's injury, as well as Paris St Germain's accusations against France's medical staff for mishandling player injuries.

According to the statement, UEFA and the players' union are urging collaboration among football's governing bodies, leagues, clubs, and unions to ensure the health of players while maintaining the integrity of the European football structure.

"Balanced solutions"

Ceferin emphasised the importance of national team football to Europe's identity and unity, stating, "As demands on players grow, it's more important than ever to work together – with national associations, leagues, clubs and players – to find balanced solutions for the future of the sport."

Terrier also stressed the urgency of addressing the issue, saying, "We all recognize that the calendar has reached a tipping point." He pointed out that Europe has the necessary tools and partners to develop protocols that safeguard players' well-being and support both national team and club football.

Real Madrid to submit report on refereeing concerns to FIFA

Real Madrid are set to submit a report to FIFA detailing concerns over refereeing in Spanish football. The club's official media channel, Real Madrid TV, announced that the report will cover incidents from both the current La Liga season and the previous one, acoording to a report from The Athletic.

According to the announcement made after their recent 2-1 win against Real Sociedad, "Real Madrid are preparing a report with everything that has happened in these first four rounds of La Liga and what happened last season." The dossier aims to inform FIFA about perceived refereeing issues in Spain. .

The move comes after a match where Real Madrid's Dean Huijsen received a direct red card.

Previous problems

Madrid's president Florentino Perez has previously expressed dissatisfaction with what is seen by many at the club as bias against them by referees. Last season saw a series of public disputes between Madrid and both the Spanish Federation (RFEF), and La Liga.

Despite winning all four La Liga matches this season, Real Madrid have faced several controversial moments, including a game decided by a penalty and another with three goals disallowed by VAR. Last February, they filed a formal complaint to RFEF regarding VAR decisions in a match they lost to Espanyol.

€220 million economic impact of Women's EURO 2025 in Switzerland

UEFA's Women's EURO 2025 in Switzerland has delivered €220 million in economic impact for the host nation, UEFA has announced.

The tournament saw unprecedented success with 29 out of 31 games sold out and an average attendance surpassing 20,000 for the first time in Women's EURO history. A total of 657,291 tickets were sold, with international spectators accounting for 35 per cent of the total.

Switzerland experienced a 9 per cent increase in hotel bookings by European visitors in July compared to the previous year. The event also boasted the largest sponsor lineup in UEFA tournament history, with 21 brands contributing to a 150 per cent increase in sponsorship revenue over the previous edition.

Positive effects

The Swiss Women’s Super League has already felt the positive effects, reporting a 42 per cent rise in match attendance.

However, it remains unclear whether the tournament turned a profit. This financial uncertainty will be a crucial factor in deciding the host for EURO 2029, with bids from Germany, Denmark-Sweden, Poland, and Portugal under consideration.

Private equity firm CVC Capital Partners has launched a new division to harbour its $13.6 billion portfolio of sports properties, and to seed new opportunities in sport, Sportico has reported.

CVC reportedly revealed the new division, Global Sports Group (GSG), during a presentation to investors in London on 10th September. The Luxembourg-based company, which manages around $234 billion in assets, is reportedly seeking new commercial opportunities through the new platform, which will scale value creation across the sports it has investments in.

In football, CVC’s empire includes a $2.17 billion LaLiga deal, which was signed in 2021, as well as a $1.6 billion Ligue 1 media rights agreement, which was signed in 2022.

Investment through new platform

GSG represents the largest sports fund within private equity, and marks CVC’s ambition of expanding its investments in sport.

According to Sportico, the group will focus on global leagues and teams as media rights models, as well mobile-first consumption, and the growth of women’s sport.

 

Sporting CP deliver record ‘€265 million’ revenue for 2024/25

Sporting CP have generated record revenue of €265 million including player sales for 2024/25.

An 18 per cent increase in total income over the last year was largely driven by the Portuguese club’s transfer revenue, which eclipsed €100 million.

Meanwhile, Sporting made a profit for a fourth successive year, this time generating €20 million. This brings their overall profits to €82.3 million since the 2021/22 season, according to the report.

Champions League success

Over the last year, the club’s media rights revenue saw an 87 per cent increase, surging from €42.9 million to €80.1 million, largely due to Sporting’s participation in the Champions League’s revamped format, where each club plays eight league phase matches.

After reaching the knockout stages of the tournament, Sporting received €49.4 million from their participation in the elite European club competition.

 

Brighton set to hire former Arsenal executive as new technical director

Brighton are set to appoint Jason Ayto as the club’s new technical director after parting ways with David Weir, according to The Athletic.

The 40-year-old will reportedly start his tenure at the Premier League club next week, following Weir’s departure, which Brighton confirmed last Friday.

Weir had served in the role since May 2022, replacing Dan Ashworth after his move to Newcastle United, and first joined Brighton in 2018.

Ayto’s resumé

Earlier this year, Ayto left Arsenal after 11 years in North London, where he most recently served as interim sporting director after Edu left the club in November last year.

Ayto, who was previously an assistant to Edu, left the Emirates this summer following the arrival of the club’s new sporting director Andrea Berta.

 

LFP aiming to generate up to €350 million annually through Ligue 1+

France’s LFP is aiming to generate up to €350 million per year through the newly launched Ligue 1+ platform, RC Lens president Joseph Oughourlian told RMC Sport’s After Foot podcast.

The new in-house OTT service launched ahead of the 2025/26 season, following the termination of LFP’s previous broadcast agreement with DAZN earlier this year.

Eight of nine weekly Ligue 1 matches air on Ligue 1+, with the remaining fixture airing on beIN Sports.

Oughourlian on LFP’s financial plan

Speaking to RMC, Oughourlian said the LFP has a “financial plan” that includes reaching between 2-2.5 million season ticket holders, with the subscription price set for a gradual increase from €14.99 to €19 per month.

He continued: “Under these conditions, the clubs could achieve total revenues of around €300 - €350 million , already a considerable figure. When? In the third season. But it's difficult to predict with certainty how far this could go.”

The Football Association (FA) has charged Chelsea with 74 breaches of its football agents regulations during former owner Roman Abramovich’s tenure at the club.

These alleged breaches took place between 2009 and 2022, and relate to secret payments made to agents. This includes the transfers of Eden Hazard, Willian, and Samuel Eto’o, according to The Times.

Following the club’s takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in 2022, Chelsea’s new ownership self reported the payments that they had discovered to the FA, which subsequently launched an investigation.

Potential penalties could include transfer embargoes or point deductions, however the Premier League side are believed to be confident that they will avoid any sporting sanctions, as the club flagged the payments to the FA themselves.

'Unprecedented transparency'

In a statement, the club said: ‘During a thorough due diligence process prior to completion of the purchase [of the club], the ownership group became aware of potentially incomplete financial reporting concerning historical transactions and other potential breaches of FA rules.

‘Immediately upon the completion of the purchase, the Club self-reported these matters to all relevant regulators, including The FA.

‘The club has demonstrated unprecedented transparency during this process, including by giving comprehensive access to the Club’s files and historical data. We will continue working collaboratively with The FA to conclude this matter as swiftly as possible.’
 

UEFA to conduct consultation on proposals for international league matches

UEFA says it will conduct a “round of consultation” to discuss proposals for LaLiga and Serie A to stage domestic league matches internationally.

This follows the request of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to hold fixtures in the US and Australia respectively.

In a statement following UEFA’s Executive Committee meeting in Tirana, Albania on Thursday, the organisation said: “There are many issues to resolve and as the European governing body, UEFA has a responsibility to take all such factors into account.

“As a result, no decision was taken today but UEFA will undertake a round of consultation with all stakeholders in European football - including fans.”

Supporter groups “welcome” consultation

In response to UEFA’s delayed decision, fan network Football Supporters Europe (FSE) said they “welcome” UEFA’s commitment to a consultation.

“Today’s announcement reflects their dedication to preserving the integrity of European football,” said FSE.

“The specific mention for fans to be involved in this engagement demonstrates that UEFA has recognised the strong opposition expressed by millions of supporters across the continent, as well as those of the many other stakeholders who have spoken out against these plans."
 

EFL consider adding eliminator round to Championship playoffs

The English Football League (EFL) is considering introducing an eliminator round to the Championship playoffs, according to The Athletic.

The proposal, which was put forward by Preston North End CEO Peter Ridsdale, would see the league adopt a similar format to that of England’s fifth tier, the National League.

The National League’s format pits teams that finish fifth and eighth against each other, as well as the clubs that finish sixth and seventh in a single matchup.

Unlike the National League however, the winners from both fixtures would subsequently progress to two-legged ties against teams that had finished third and fourth, with the eventual winners meeting each other at Wembley.

Prospects for League One & League Two

Ridsdale’s plans received approval from numerous Championship clubs, however discussions remain at an early stage.

The EFL is also weighing up the prospect of eliminator rounds in League One and League Two, however this would not happen until the organisation agrees to a distribution deal with the Premier League.
 

15 MPs support new bill to prohibit multi-club ownership involving French clubs

A new bill is set to be presented to the French National Assembly next week, which would prohibit multi-club ownership involving any French teams, according to L’Équipe.

The new bill, which is being put forward by MP Eric Coquerel, already has 15 signatories across multiple parties, and is intended to fight the excesses of multi-club ownership in the professional football sector.

The proposal would aim to safeguard “equal opportunity” and “sporting uncertainty." This would build on the existing ban on shareholders holding stakes within two separate French teams.

Further powers to DNCG

If shareholders failed to comply with the proposed bill, they would be fined the equivalent of two per cent of their turnover, and would face a ban from all FFF competitions.

If approved, the bill would also grant further powers to the DNCG, which would have the right to veto potential takeovers or investments.

SL Benfica have reported a profit of €34.4 million in the club’s annual accounts for the 2024/25 financial year.

This marks a €65.8 million increase on last year’s results, when the Portuguese club made a loss of €31.4 million.

Benfica cited the team’s successful Champions League campaign, in which they reached the round of 16, as well as their participation in this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, as key factors for the uptick in revenue. These accounted for a positive net impact of €23.8 million and €17.1 million respectively.

Record operating revenue

The Lisbon club additionally revealed record operating revenue excluding player rights of €230.6 million, which is up 30.6 per cent on last year’s figure of €176.6 million.

Broadcast revenue saw an increase of €46.8 million, making up 64 per cent of Benfica’s overall operating income.
Meanwhile, the club delivered €40.9 million in commercial revenue, while matchday income rose from €35.5 million to €41.7 million.
 

Only four English clubs are ready for new independent regulator

Only four English clubs are currently ready for the new Independent Football Regulator (IFR) governing its top four tiers, according to a study by Fair Game.

The 2025 edition of the Fair Game Index has assessed 164 clubs across the top six divisions of English men’s football, investigating areas such as financial sustainability, governance, ethics, and community engagement.

Fair Game, a non-profit organisation comprising 33 English and Welsh teams, advocates financial sustainability, fairness and transparency within clubs.

The report says that Brighton, Cambridge United, Carlisle United, and Wimbledon are the only teams that would fit all IFR criteria.

New IFR

The Fair Game Index also found that 43 out of 92 clubs across the top four tiers had less than one month’s cash reserve to cover operating costs.

As reported by The Athletic last month, the UK Government is aiming to fast-track the implementation of the IFR, which it hopes will be introduced by November. This came one month after the Football Governance Bill was approved by the House of Commons, and later received Royal Assent to pass into UK legislation.
 

LFP elects three new members to its board of directors

France’s Professional Football League (LFP) has elected three new members to its board of directors during a virtual general meeting on Wednesday.

The election of Fabrice Bocquet (Nice), Waldemar Kita (Nantes), and Loic Fery (Lorient) comes amid growing tensions within the LFP.

In a recent interview with Le Figaro, Olympique Marseille owner Frank McCourt and RC Lens owner Joseph Oughourlian criticised the LFP as a “failure”, as well as questioning LFP president Vincent Labrune.

LFP set for directors meeting next week

The two owners expressed their concerns over how much revenue Ligue 1 clubs would receive from the LFP’s newly launched Ligue 1+ platform, and frustration over the now-terminated broadcast rights deal with DAZN.

As reported by RMC Sport, the matter of media rights distribution could be discussed at the LFP’s upcoming directors meeting on 15th September.
 

UK Government “extremely concerned” about Sheffield Wednesday ownership

The UK’s Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, has said the UK Government is “extremely concerned” about Sheffield Wednesday’s ownership.

Speaking at the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on Wednesday, Nandy said: “The Government’s view is very strongly that football club owners are custodians of those clubs.

“In Sheffield Wednesday’s case, I am really extremely concerned about the current ownership, and the lack of willingness to sell the club, and invest in the club.”

She added that the UK Government is “keeping a very close eye” on the situation. Nandy’s comments come amid ongoing financial turmoil at the Championship club, who recently failed to pay their players on time for three successive months between May and July, resulting in several departures this summer.

£7.3 million loan repayment due later this month

As reported by The Star, Wednesday have a loan repayment of more than £7.3 million, which is due on 30th September, for the leasehold and freehold of Hillsborough Stadium.

The charge has been rolled up with interest and re-issued each year, having risen from an initial sum of £6.4 million in 2020.

Premier League clubs are seeking further clarification on the English top flight settlement with Manchester City over its Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, according to BBC Sport.

Earlier this week, the two parties revealed that they had settled their legal dispute in a joint statement. As part of this, City acknowledged that the current APT regulations are ‘valid and banding’.

However, several teams have not been informed of any of the details regarding the settlement, not its broader implications.

Some clubs have also suggested that the Premier League clarify whether City have been given any assurances of concessions during its next shareholders meeting, which is set to take place this month.

Man City’s APT dispute

City had initially filed a second legal dispute against the league in February, which claimed that some clubs had received an unfair competitive advantage due to shareholder loans from their owners.

This came shortly after the club won their initial case against the league, in which the APT rules were deemed ‘void and unenforceable’.

FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou return faces further delay

FC Barcelona’s return to the Camp Nou has once again been delayed, after the LaLiga champions did not receive the necessary permits from the city council.

The club, which had intended to make their return to their iconic stadium for their match against Valencia on 12th September, will alternatively play their fixture at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

In June 2023, Barcelona started their €1.5 billion renovation of the Camp Nou, with a phased return to the venue initially set for last November. The club have been playing home fixtures at the Olympic Stadium for the last two seasons, in the meantime.

The Estadi Johan Cruyff only has a capacity of 6,000, in comparison to the Camp Nou, which is set to initially accommodate 27,000 spectators once it reopens.

'Working intensely’

In a statement, Barcelona said: ‘The club is working intensively to obtain the necessary administrative permits for the opening of the Spotify Camp Nou in the coming weeks. For this reason, the match will instead be played at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

‘Barcelona would like to thank its members and fans for their understanding and support during such a complex yet exciting process as the return to the new Spotify Camp Nou.’

FFF president writes to PSG president to help deescalate tensions

French Football Federation (FFF) president Philippe Diallo has written a letter to PSG president Nasser Al-Khalaifi, following the club’s criticism of the management of France’s men’s national team, L’Équipe has reported.

Earlier this week, PSG penned letters to both the FFF and FIFA, after both Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue picked up injuries during France’s World Cup qualifier against Ukraine on 5th September, citing “regrettable events.”

The club, who say they had previously raised concerns over management of their players, said in a statement on 7th September: “The club deplores the fact that these medical recommendations were not taken into account by the French national team’s medical staff, as well as the total lack of consultation and consultation with its medical teams.

“The recent serious and avoidable incidents must result in swift and immediate corrective action.”

FFF’s response

In his letter to PSG, Diallo aimed to deescalate the situation, while encouraging expressing his support for the FFF’s coaching and medical staff.

The FFF president additionally incited collaboration between the club and federation going forward.
 

Manchester City and the Premier League have reached a settlement over their latest lawsuit regarding the English top flight’s Associated Party Transactions (APT) rules.

In February, the club won their first case against the league at an arbitration tribunal which ruled that its APT regulations were ‘void and unenforceable’.

City subsequently filed a second case weeks later, claiming that other clubs have benefited from an unfair competitive advantage due to shareholder loans from their ownership. Under the Premier League’s APT rules, any partnerships with companies linked to clubs’ owners must be at fair market value.

Prior to the settlement, a two-week hearing was set to take place in October.

Current rules are valid

In a joint statement City and the Premier League said: ‘This settlement brings an end to the dispute between the parties regarding the APT Rules. As part of the settlement, Manchester City accepts that the current APT Rules are valid and binding.

‘It has been agreed that neither the Premier League nor the club will be making any further comment about the matter.’

Spurs declare club is ‘not for sale’ amid takeover interest

In a statement, Tottenham Hotspur have insisted that the club is ‘not for sale’, after confirming that it had 'received, and unequivocally rejected’ approaches from parties interested in a takeover.

As reported by The Times, former Newcastle United director Amanda Staveley is leading one of the consortiums that had expressed initial interest in Spurs, through her company PCP International Finance Limited.

The 52-year-old joined Newcastle United in 2021, after the club’s Saudi-led takeover, and held a 10 per cent stake in the team alongside her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, before they both departed in July 2024.
PCP is reportedly representing a group comprising ten investors from Asia, Europe, and North America.

Another consortium led by Roger Kennedy and Wing-Fai Ng, which includes Chinese and American investment, also expressed interest in buying the Premier League club, following last week’s announcement that chairman Daniel Levy would be stepping down after a 24-year tenure.

No intention to sell

PCP will continue to monitor Spurs’ situation, before making any decision on potential further approaches next year.

The club’s board said: ‘The board of the club and ENIC confirm that Tottenham Hotspur is not for sale and ENIC has no intention to accept any such offer to acquire its interest in the club.’

Marseille and RC Lens owners blast LFP as a failure

Olympique Marseille owner Frank McCourt and RC Lens owner Joseph Oughourlian have criticised France’s LFP in an interview with Le Figaro.

Ahead of the Ligue 1 general meeting, US businessman McCourt told the French newspaper: “The LFP no longer represents the clubs, and the results generally attest to this: it's a failure.”

Ourghourlian shared McCourt’s sentiment that the LFP has “failed”, adding: "We were promised nearly a billion euros in September 2023 for all TV rights, and we got around 700 million, including international rights.”

The Lens owner also described the now-terminated DAZN broadcast rights partnership as a “fiasco”, and expressed uncertainty over how much revenue clubs will receive from the LFP’s newly launched in-house OTT platform Ligue 1+.

Questions LFP president

Both owners also criticised LFP president Vincent Labrune.

“What company would accept such results while maintaining the same management? How can we hope to attract the best talent and retain our best players if we don't have the resources available to other leagues,” said McCourt.

Tottenham Hotspur are poised for a financial boost, Telegraph Sport has reported. Over £100 million is expected to be invested into the club. This fresh injection of funds, part of a 'new era' at Tottenham, comes as Daniel Levy's departure as chairman approaches.

According to a source close to the Lewis family trust and Enic, the entities behind the investment, this move is not indicative of plans to sell the club. Instead, it's aimed at ensuring Tottenham can compete with top Premier League clubs like Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal.

Levy had previously hinted at the need for new investment last year.

Possible naming rights agreement

While Levy's departure has been officially recorded on Companies House, it may also pave the way for a lucrative naming rights agreement for Tottenham's £1 billion stadium - a deal Levy had sought but failed to secure at his desired valuation.

The possibility of the Lewis family trust acquiring some or all of Levy's 29.88 per cent stake in Tottenham remains open, though such discussions are considered premature at this stage.

Sharon Lacey appointed as new CEO of Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace Football Club have announced the appointment of Sharon Lacey as their new Chief Executive Officer. Lacey is no stranger to the club, having previously held various positions over a 15-year period, including Director of Operations and Chief Operating Officer.

Lacey's return follows a six-month tenure as CEO at USL Super League side Fort Lauderdale United.

"Her return to Crystal Palace is timed with the next phase of the Main Stand redevelopment project, which she had worked closely on before. Following the completion of essential enabling works during the summer, Lacey's role will be crucial in driving this significant project forward," the club's statement says.

"Ideal candidate"

Chairman Steve Parish expressed his confidence in Lacey's appointment, highlighting her extensive experience and past contributions to the club. "Sharon has already been an integral part of our operations for many a year...we believe she is the ideal candidate to help us build on our recent historic on-the-pitch achievements," said Parish.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Sharon Lacey stated, "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to return to Crystal Palace and lead the club's business operations at such an exciting moment in its story. I look forward to seeing everyone at Selhurst Park again soon".

Swansea City seeks £50 million investment for growth

Swansea City AFC is actively seeking an investment of £50 million, aiming to bolster the club's growth and enhance their competitive edge.

According to Bloomberg, this fundraising could potentially elevate the club's valuation to £160 million. The influx of capital is intended for player acquisitions, wage increases, and the development of real estate and hospitality amenities, including the fan zone.

American entrepreneurs Brett Cravatt and Jason Cohen, who are also founding partners of Magellan Equities, hold the majority ownership of Swansea City. The club has seen consistent success in player trading and aims to boost matchday revenue and domestic sponsorship.

The Luka effect

Investor documents also highlight the "Luka Effect" – referring to Luka Modrić's influence in recruiting top players by explaining the benefits of joining Swansea City and how it can aid their development as players, as he became investor and co-owner of the club back in April.

According to the financial figures for the fiscal year ending in June 2024, Swansea City reported total revenues of £32 million, with a notable £10.5 million profit from player trading. However, when excluding player trading activities, the club faced a loss of £20.2 million in EBITDA.

JP Morgan appointed to boost Serie A's global strategy

Serie A has appointed JP Morgan as an advisor to help define a global industrial plan for the Italian football league, according to Milano Finanza.

This move marks a strategic effort by Serie A to enhance its international development and comes at a time when foreign TV rights are contracting worldwide.

JP Morgan will now support Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo in crafting an industrial plan. The aim is to get ahead in negotiations for international audiovisual rights, most of which are set to expire in 2027.

Far from Premier League and LaLiga

Serie A's goal is to maintain its current revenue from these rights, estimated at €240-250 million per year, and to strengthen its international presence.

When compared to other top leagues, Serie A's earnings from foreign rights pale; the Premier League garners over €2 billion annually, La Liga around €900 million. The engagement of JP Morgan is thus aimed at bolstering Serie A's global strategy and laying the groundwork for the next cycle of TV rights.

Tottenham Hotspur have announced the departure of executive chairman Daniel Levy with mediate effect.

The 63-year-old leaves Spurs after almost 25 years, having first joined the Premier League club in 2001.

In Levy’s stead, Peter Charrington will become Spurs’ non-executive chairman, in a newly created role. This follows the appointment of Vinai Venkatesham as the team’s CEO earlier this year.

In a statement, Spurs said that this move comes as part of the club’s ambition to deliver ‘long-term sporting success’.

“incredibly proud”

“I am incredibly proud of the work I have done together with the executive team and all our employees,” Levy said.

“We have built this club into a global heavyweight competing at the highest level. More than that, we have built a community.

“I wish to thank all the fans that have supported me over the years. It hasn’t always been an easy journey but significant progress has been made. I will continue to support this club passionately.”

Newcastle appoint David Hopkinson as new CEO

Newcastle United have hired David Hopkinson as the club’s new CEO, replacing Darren Eales, the club have announced.

Hopkinson, who joins the club today, will undertake a handover process with Newcastle’s outgoing CEO Darren Eales, who is stepping down from his position due to health reasons.

Last September, Eales revealed that he had been diagnosed with a form of blood cancer, which would require treatment, followed by a period of rest.

The newly appointed CEO has 25 years of industry experience, most recently serving as president and chief operating officer at Madison Square Garden Sports, the owner of the NBA’s New York Knicks, and the NHL’s New York Rangers.

Among “world’s elite clubs”

“I am incredibly honoured to join Newcastle United at such an exciting time in the club's history,” Hopkinson said.

“I greatly admire what has been achieved by the club so far, and I am excited and motivated by what is ahead as we strive to position Newcastle United among the world's elite clubs.”
 

New owners' test announced by Independent Football Regulator

The Independent Football Regulator (IFR), has announced a new owners' test aimed at preventing "rogue" individuals from acquiring and managing football clubs in England. This follows the Members of Parliament's decision to support a Football Governance Bill earlier this year, which called for an independent regulator for the top five divisions of men's football in England.

The new test will assess prospective buyers' "honesty, integrity and financial soundness" and require proof of the "necessary skills and experience" to run a club. Notably, the IFR's test will also apply to current club owners, not just new buyers, allowing the regulator to hold clubs and individuals to account with measures such as financial penalties, public censure, or mandating an owner to sell their stake.

The existing owners' and directors' test, operates separately from the IFR's proposed test. The IFR stated that effective club owners would face minimal impact from the new regulations but emphasised its capacity to act against unsuitable incumbents.

Sheffield Wednesday and Morecambe

Public consultations on these proposals are open until October 6th, with the IFR set to publish responses later in the year and aims to become operational shortly thereafter.

The announcement comes amidst financial crises at clubs like Sheffield Wednesday and Morecambe, where ownership issues have led to severe financial distress and operational challenges. Despite offers for Sheffield Wednesday, owner Dejphon Chansiri has refused to sell, while Morecambe faced near closure in July before a takeover by Panjab Warriors after being suspended by the National League.

beIN Sports demands €29 million from LFP Media over Ligue 1 deal

beIN Sports is demanding €29 million from LFP Media, in the latest development of the Qatari broadcaster’s ongoing dispute over its Ligue 1 media rights partnership.

As reported by L’Équipe earlier this week, the two parties remain at odds over the reported €78.5 million a year agreement for rights to the French top flight's Saturday evening fixture.

In July, the network submitted a formal complaint to LFP Media, citing carious restrictions within the contract, with beIN prohibited from showing the same team in successive weeks, or more than eight times per season.

Last month, beIN Sports withheld €4 million from its €18 million payment due to LFP Media, and initiated legal proceedings against the organisation.

LFP files countersuit

Meanwhile, LFP Media has filed a countersuit against beIN Sports due to the underpayment.

A hearing on the matter is set to be held at the Paris Economic Court on 25th November.

Mexican club's promotion and relegation appeal dismissed by CAS

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), has dismissed an appeal by six second division Mexican clubs seeking the immediate reinstatement of promotion and relegation (pro/rel), which had been paused by the Mexican Football Federation (FMF).

According to the CAS statement, the FMF had made it clear when the decision was taken that the suspension would last until the end of the 2025-2026 season. The initial lawsuit, filed in May by 10 Liga Expansión clubs, was in response to concerns that FMF and Liga MX officials had not formally committed to reinstating pro/rel after a six-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Specifically, the Panel found that the sporting seasons impacted by the agreement at the FMF General Assembly on 24 April 2020 to suspend promotion and relegation correspond to those in the FMF decision on 29 April 2025, the last one being the 2025-2026 season. Consequently, the appeal is dismissed," read part of Thursday's CAS statement.

Not considered until 2026/27

This ruling means that pro/rel will not be considered again until at least the 2026/27 season. Meanwhile, FMF and Liga MX are working on establishing new guidelines for Liga Expansión clubs to qualify for first division football, emphasizing financial stability and infrastructure improvements.

The case underscores ongoing efforts by lower division clubs to remain integrated within Mexico's football structure amidst financial challenges that pro/rel poses for leagues and clubs globally.