Manchester United have informed staff at Carrington training ground of further redundancies on the horizon, following the club’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, according to UK media.

After missing out on Champions League football for the 2025/26 season, United are reportedly expected to make a further 200 members of staff redundant.

As reported by BBC Sport, medical, scouting, and sports science departments could be the most heavily impacted in the latest waves of redundancies at Old Trafford.

United’s recent financial struggles have been well documented, with the Premier League side losing more than £370 million over the last five years. In the club’s financial statements for the 2023/24 season, the club reported a loss of £113.2 million.

The latest wave of redundancies

Last year, United cut 250 roles as part of cost-cutting measures at the club, which reportedly saved between £8 million and £10 million.

Earlier this year, United CEO Omar Berrada confirmed that up to 200 additional employees would be made redundant, amid the club’s ongoing financial difficulties.

Dutch FA makes proposed decision to revoke Vitesse’s license for 2025/26

The Dutch Football Association’s (KNVB) licensing committee has taken a proposed decision to revoke the license of Vitesse Arnhem for the 2025/26 season.

In a statement, the KNVB said the second tier club ‘continued to circumvent and evade the licensing system’ after losing their license last year, before retaining it just six days before the start of the 2024/25 season.

According to the KNVBAccording to the KNVB, Vitesse made promises to the licensing committee last year, which included the control of potential new owners, were ‘not fulfilled’.

As this is a proposed decision, rather than a final ruling, Vitesse will be able to offer their own perspective on the proposal, with external parties also set to be contacted by the licensing committee.

Vitesse to present their opinion in due course

In a statement acknowledging the decision, the club said: ‘Vitesse has just been informed of the intended decision of the Licensing Committee to revoke the club license.

'The proposed decision is almost 40 pages long. Of course, intensive study and critical reflection are necessary before the club can respond substantively.

‘For now, we can only emphasise that this is a proposed decision. The club has been invited by the licensing committee to give its opinion in a hearing. We will of course take advantage of that opportunity.’

Reading secure fresh investment following takeover

US investment firm Aliya Capital Partners is set to join the ownership group of English club Reading, Bloomberg has reported.

According to the business publication, the company’s investment will be subject to approval by the English Football League (EFL). Once given the green light, the move will see Aliya CEO Ross Kestin join Reading’s board.

This marks the latest investment in the League One club, which was recently subject to a reported £25 million takeover led by US businessman Rob Couhig. This came after the EFL disqualified Reading’s previous owner Dai Yongge, who had failed its owners’ and directors’ test, forcing the club to find a new buyer in order to avoid potential sanctions.

A “sleeping giant”

In an interview with Bloomberg, Kestin said: “With its 150-year legacy and fiercely loyal fans, Reading is a sleeping giant.

“We want to do what it takes to fuel its untapped potential to rise through the EFL and, one day, rise to Premier League glory.”

Judge to investigate PSG president over allegations of undeclared work

A judge has been appointed to investigate a legal complaint against Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the Paris prosecutor’s office has confirmed.

This follows following a case filed by his former butler, Hicham Karmoussi, regarding undeclared work. As reported by L’Équipe, a preliminary investigation was already in process, after a complaint made by Karmoussi back in 2023.

According to the complaint, Karmoussi is claiming that he first started working for Al-Khelaifi full-time in 2011, when he first arrived at PSG. Karmoussi allegedly worked for the Qatari without a contract of employment, despite living on-site and working across a variant of personal duties. He also claims that his living and working conditions had declined since 2015.

"Wild and baseless” defamation campaign

In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for Al-Khelaifi told French publication Le Monde: “We’ve sadly become accustomed to wild and baseless defamation campaigns in recent years, which we will not dignify with media responses.

“We place our trust in the rule of law and the justice system and will continue to pursue all legal actions, often as a victim, with full confidence and composure.”

AC Milan set to name Tare as new sporting director

AC Milan are set to appoint Igli Tare as the Serie A club’s new sporting director for the 2025/26 season, according to multiple Italian media outlets.

The Albanian, who previously served in the same role at league rivals Lazio, has reportedly signed a three-year contract.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan will confirm Tare’s appointment this week.

Tare to help find new coach

It has also been reported that Tare will receive a base salary of €800,000 annually at the San Siro.

In his new role, the 51-year-old will reportedly be tasked with finding a new head coach, as well as bolstering the club’s squad, after the side already missed out on European football for the next season.

France’s National Management Control Department (DNCG) is set to interview John Textor, the majority owner of Olympique Lyon, regarding the club’s finances, according to L’Équipe.

During that interview, which will take place on 24th June, Lyon are set to present their proposed budget for the 2025/26 season.

Last November, Lyon were provisionally relegated to Ligue 2 by the DNCG at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, due to the club’s debts totalling €505 million. The French club are still facing relegation to the second tier, should they fail to meet the necessary requirements of the DNCG.

Textor on next month’s meeting

Looking ahead to Lyon’s interview with the DNCG, the American told L’Équipe: “We were able to communicate actively with the members of the [DNCG], presenting them with the elements of our business plan well before our hearing scheduled for the end of June."

“This year, there will be no surprises. They fully understand our business model and we know what they expect from us. We look forward to a successful 2025-2026 season.”

Paris Saint-Germain extend Luis Campos as sporting advisor until 2030

Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain have extended the contract of sporting advisor Luis Campos until 2030.

In an expanded role, the 60-year-old will serve as an advisor to Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), PSG’s ownership group, which also holds a 21.67 per cent stake in Portuguese club SC Braga.

Campos, who first arrived at the Parc des Princes in 2022, will be involved in QSI’s multi-club strategy going forward in his new position. According to French media, he had drawn interest from Premier League clubs prior to signing his extension.

PSG president on Campos’ expanded role

In a release, PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi said: “We are very pleased to renew Luis Campos’ contract through to 2030. He has done an exceptional job over the last three years.

“Today, we have stability, a clear vision and shared ambition across all our assets - for which I thank Luis. We look forward to future successes and achieving QSI’s long-term objectives.”
 

RC Lens to part ways with CEO and sporting director

French club RC Lens are set to part ways with CEO Pierre Dréossi and sporting director Diego Lopez, L’Équipe has reported.

The pair of executives have decided to leave by mutual agreement.

L’Équipe says that Lopez’s departure is due to a lack of alignment with the club’s strategy going forward.

Club to recruit new head coach, CEO, and sporting director

Entering the summer transfer window, Lens are also without a head coach, with Will Still leaving at the end of the 2024/25 season, which concluded on 17th May.

Earlier this week, the Ligue 1 side confirmed an agreement to purchase the club’s Stade Bollaert-Delelis home, in a deal worth €54.9 million according to French media.
 

Manchester United shares drop by seven per cent

Manchester United’s shares dropped by seven per cent following the club’s Europa League final loss to Tottenham Hotspur.

This equates to a valuation of around £160 million as a result of the defeat, which closed the door on Champions League football for the 2025/26 season.

This comes amid the Premier League club’s ongoing financial difficulties, after reporting a loss of £113.2 million for the 2023/24 season. Over the last five years, United have made cumulative net losses of more than £370 million.

Spurs to receive up to £14 million after Europa League win

Conversely, champions Spurs have pocketed £10 million in prize money from their Europa League win, alongside qualification for next year’s Champions League competition.

The North London club will additionally receive a further £4 million if they win the UEFA Super Cup.

Crystal Palace are confident that they are compliant with UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, despite co-owner John Textor’s shareholding in French club Lyon, according to UK media.

The South London club qualified for next year’s Europa League, following their FA Cup win against Manchester City last weekend.

US businessman Textor, who holds a 43 per cent share in Palace through Eagle Football Holdings, is also the majority owner of Lyon. Under UEFA’s regulations, individuals are prohibited from simultaneously controlling two clubs that are competing within the same competition.

UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) are set to look into the club, with a decision set to come in early June.

Palace’s case to UEFA

If investigated, the Premier League club will argue that they are compliant with the rules, as Textor holds equal voting rights to co-owners Josh Harris, David Blitzer, and Steve Parish.

The club additionally will make the case that Eagle Football Holdings does not oversee the operational running at Selhurst Park.
 

Valencia CF finalising €237 million loan to help fund Nou Mestalla

Valencia CF are finalising a €237 million loan to complete the construction of the Nou Mestalla, as reported by Spanish media.

The LaLiga club will have a repayment term of up to 28 years, with an interest rate of 5.82 per cent. The transaction will include a bond issue in the US.

The loan is being backed by Goldman Sachs, and will be formalised in July. This marks Valencia's latest transaction involving the US investment bank.

The club previously secured a €186 million refinancing deal with Goldman Sachs in November in order to help clear existing debts and finance the development of their new stadium.

Nou Mestalla to cost €194.6 million

Earlier this month, Spanish construction firm FCC Group revealed that the club’s new stadium will cost €194.6 million, with the venue set to be complete by 2027.

The project will cost 17 per cent more than Valencia had initially anticipated.
 

Mexican clubs file legal claim against Liga MX and FMF

Ten Mexican clubs have filed a legal case with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) and Liga MX, according to The Athletic.

The teams are alleging that the Mexican top flight and FMF have not formally committed to reinstating promotion and relegation, ending a six-year pause which they believe should end on 7th June.

In the lawsuit, which was filed on 19th May, the clubs claim that they twice reached out to the Liga MX and FMF, to request that promotion and relegation would be reinstated, on both 24th March and 7th April, and received no confirmation.

FMF believes promotion and relegation will not return until 2026/27

The teams are demanding that promotion and relegation be reimposed from the 2025/26 season. Contrary to this, the claim states that the FMF believes the six-year pause took effect from the 2020/21 campaign, and therefore will not be lifted until the 2026/27 season.

The topic of promotion and relegation is set to be discussed at next week’s owners meeting on 26th May.
 

RC Lens set to purchase home stadium

RC Lens are set to purchase the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, the club have announced in a statement.

Lens’ deal to buy the 38,223-seat venue was approved by the city’s council on Wednesday, in a move that enables the club to bolster its revenue.

The acquisition sees Lens become just the third French top flight team to buy their home stadium, following Lyon and Auxerre.

Venue to keep its current name in €54.9 million deal

As reported by France Bleu, the agreement is worth €54.9 million, of which €27 million of the proceeds will go towards the city of Lens, with €10 million going towards the Hauts-de-France region.

The Stade Bollaert-Delelis, which has been home to Lens since 1933, is set to keep its current name, due to a clause prohibiting any potential changes for the next 20 years.
 

FIFA set to implement dynamic pricing for 2026 World Cup

FIFA is set to implement a dynamic ticket pricing model for the 2026 World Cup, as reported by The Athletic.

Under this model, prices could vary, demanding on demand, with tickets expected to go on sale in the third quarter of this year. The only tickets currently on sale are hospitality packages, which are priced between $3,500 and $73,200.

Tickets allocated to countries participating in the competition will not have dynamic pricing. Next year’s World Cup is set to be staged across the US, Canada and Mexico.

Dynamic pricing in football

Although dynamic pricing is rare in European football, FIFA has recently used this model for tickets for this year’s Club World Cup, which will be staged in the US between 14th June and 13th July.

Dynamic pricing was additionally used for the 2024 edition of the Copa America, which was also hosted by the US.

The Premier League has charged Leicester City with alleged breaches of its profit and sustainability rules (PSR) during the 2023/24 season, the league has announced in a statement.

Leicester have subsequently been referred to an independent commission, and could reportedly face a point deduction, after a tribunal ruled that the Premier League has the authority to sanction the club.

In April, the Premier League altered its PSR regulations, granting the English top flight jurisdiction over clubs that have been relegated. The club, who spent the 2023/24 campaign in the Championship, will return to the second tier for a second time in three years at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Last year, Leicester were initially charged by the Premier League over PSR violations between 2020 and 2023. During this period, the club made collective losses of £215.3 million, more than double the permitted PSR threshold of £105 million over three years. In Leicester’s most recent financial statements, the club reported a loss of £19.4 million for the 2023/24 season.

Leicester’s response to PSR charges

A statement shared by Leicester City said: ‘Leicester City FC notes the tribunal decision which has been published today.

‘Consistent with its previous commitments, the club intends to engage cooperatively in this matter now that the Premier League’s jurisdiction has been established for the period ending FY24.’

Leeds United owners set to issue £120m in new shares ahead of Premier League return

Leeds United’s owners, 49ers Enterprises, are set to issue around £120 million in new shares in the English club, as reported by The Athletic.

The club, who recently secured promotion back to the Premier League for the 2025/26 season, are reportedly aiming to use the new funding to help finance the renovation of Elland Road, as well as investing further in their playing squad during this summer’s transfer window.

Senior figures within Leeds’ ownership group contacted shareholders shortly after the club secured their return tenth Premier League last month.

Leeds eyeing long-term stay in English top-flight

Since Leeds’ most recent stint in the Premier League, between 2020 and 2023, the club were subject to a full takeover by 49ers Enterprises in 2023 for a reported fee of £170 million.

Under their new ownership, the investment arm of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers, Leeds are aiming to bolster their roster and invest further into club infrastructure in order to avoid relegation back to the Championship, and facilitate greater financial sustainability.

Brescia facing relegation from Serie B amid financial investigation

Brescia Calcio are facing a potential four-point deduction, amid an investigation led by COVISOC, an agency that oversees the financial sustainability of Italian clubs, Calcio Finanza reports.

The 2024/25 Serie B season already concluded earlier this month, with Cosenza, Cittadella, and Sampdoria relegated to Serie C. However Brescia, who finished the campaign on 43 points, would drop below Sampdoria, who finished with 41 points, if they are handed a four-point sanction.

As a result of the ongoing investigation, the relegation playoff between Frosinone and Salernitana has been postponed.

Club set to appeal if sanctioned by COVISOC

The alleged financial breaches relate to irregularities in salary payments as well as tax contributions in February.

In a statement, Brescia said: ‘Following the press reports that emerged today and the notice of conclusion of the investigation received from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for alleged irregularities in payments, Brescia Calcio announces that it will appeal to any sporting and, if necessary, extra-sporting body, to protect its position believing that it has correctly fulfilled the federal deadlines and acted in accordance with state and sporting regulations.’

Blackburn Rovers relegated from Women’s Championship after club withdraws

Blackburn Rovers’ women’s team have been relegated from the Women’s Championship, after the club decided to withdraw from the second tier of English women’s football. The club's owners were recently given an 18th May deadline by Women’s Super League Football (WSL Football), the new governing body overseeing the top two English women’s football leagues, to state their intention for the women’s team and meet club licensing criteria.

As reported by The Athletic, Blackburn women’s players and staff were informed that no funding would be provided by the club on Tuesday 20th May. Last year, the club faced backlash amid reports that women’s team players were being paid salaries of just £9,000, with a total playing budget of £100,000.

In a statement, Blackburn said the decision was primarily driven by a rise in minimum criteria set by the Women’s Championship, including extended contact hours and an increase in staffing levels, which resulted in higher wage costs.

Rovers ‘not walking away’ from women’s football

‘This decision follows a comprehensive review of the evolving demands placed on second tier clubs, which have become unsustainable under our current model,’ Blackburn Rovers said.

‘We acknowledge the disappointment this may cause to our players, supporters and staff, and extend our heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering dedication last season, but this decision has not been made lightly. To be absolutely clear, Blackburn Rovers is not walking away from the women’s game.
‘The club are now in active discussions with The FA Women’s National League board regarding the level the team can enter the Women’s football pyramid next season, with a decision set to be confirmed over the coming weeks.’

Premier League clubs Bournemouth, Fulham, Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers have been issued a warning from the UK’s Gambling Commission, according to a report from BBC according to a report from BBC.

The four teams, as well as newly promoted side Burnley, currently have partnerships with betting websites operated by TGP Europe, which has surrendered its UK licence after receiving a £3.3 million fine from the commission.

TGP Europe’s bj88, SBOTOP, DEBET, and 96.com currently serve as the main shirt sponsors of Bournemouth, Fulham, Wolves, and Burnley respectively. FUN88 is the Asian betting partner of Newcastle, after previously being the club’s front-of-shirt partner between 2017 and 2023.

Commission seeks assurances that clubs have carried out ‘due diligence’

In a statement, the Gambling Commission said the aforementioned clubs have now been contacted regarding their association with ‘unlicensed gambling websites’.

‘The Commission is seeking assurance from the clubs that they have carried out due diligence on their white label partners and that consumers in Great Britain cannot transact with the unlicensed sites,’ said the Gambling Commission in a statement.

‘Clubs will be asked to demonstrate that they have assurance that any steps to geo-block the sites are effective, recognising that some blocking can be easily by-passed by use of tools such as a Virtual Private Network.

Marseille president brands French football media crisis a “disgrace"

Olympique Marseille president Pablo Longoria has blasted the ongoing media rights crisis in French football as a “disgrace” during a press conference, L'Équipe has reported.

Earlier this month, the France’s Professional Football League (LFP) terminated its multi-year broadcast rights deal with DAZN just one year after signing a five-year contract that was reportedly worth around €400 million annually.

This followed a longstanding legal dispute between the LFP and UK-based media company, which ultimately agreed to pay €100 million to exit the agreement, as well as making the final two payments worth an additional €140 million.

Longoria on French football’s media rights crisis

“It’s a huge failure to have four broadcasters since I’ve been in France (since 2021),” Longoria said.

“I think the problem with French football is a lack of confidence and that we’ve distanced ourselves from the fans. The fans think we’re incompetent and that we live in an ivory tower.

“We’re the second largest economy in the EU with the second highest rate of pay TV in households, and we have lower TV rights than Portugal. It’s a disgrace.”

CBF set to appoint Samir Xaud as next president, following Ednaldo Rodrigues removal

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) is set to appoint Samir Xaud as its next president, replacing Ednaldo Rodrigues.

The 41-year-old infectious disease doctor reportedly has the backing of 25 of Brazil’s 27 state federations and 10 clubs ahead of the election, which is slated for 25th May. Prospective candidates require the support of at least eight federations and ten clubs in order to stand in the election. Although Sao Paolo Football Federation (FPF) president Reinaldo Carneiro Bastos is backed by ten clubs, he reportedly lacks sufficient support from the federations.

Conforming his appointment, Xaud told CNN Brasil: “As of May 26, I will be the president of the CBF. People don’t know me, but I’ve been working in football for a long time. I came to contribute and try to change the CBF with transparent management.”

The removal of ex-CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues

Last week, Rodrigues was removed from his position, following a court ruling in Rio de Janeiro pertaining to the alleged falsification of documents, ahead of his recent re-election as president in March.

The 71-year-old stood at the helm of Brazilian football since 2022, and had no opposition in his recent re-election.

UEFA has publicly criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino for prioritising "private political interests" over the FIFA congress in Paraguay, after he arrived over two hours late due to a diplomatic tour with US President Donald Trump. Infantino defended his tardiness by stating the tour was essential for representing football in significant discussions with global leaders.

In response to Infantino's delayed arrival, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin led a walk-out of European delegates, including Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, during a break at the event. This left noticeable empty seats at the Conmebol Convention Center when the congress resumed.

UEFA released a statement condemning the "last-minute changes" to the schedule, asserting that while the FIFA congress is crucial for discussing global football issues, changing the timetable to seemingly accommodate personal political agendas does not serve the sport and appears to subordinate its interests. According to UEFA, "We are all in post to serve football... and UEFA members of the FIFA council felt the need on this occasion to make a point that the game comes first."

Concerning situation

Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian FA, expressed concern over the situation, emphasising the importance of professional leadership at such a significant event.

"The situation is concerning — 210 member associations have travelled from all over the world to participate, expecting professional leadership and dialogue at the highest level.”

Despite some Concacaf delegates also leaving early, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom attempted to ease tensions by highlighting FIFA's strong relationship with UEFA and explaining Infantino's reasons for being delayed.

Everton strike £10m-a-year naming rights deal for new stadium

Everton have confirmed that their new waterfront stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock will be officially named the Hill Dickinson Stadium, following a major naming rights agreement with the Liverpool-based law firm.

Hill Dickinson, which has its headquarters in the city and operates across the UK, Europe, and Asia, has partnered with the club in what Everton describe as one of the most valuable stadium naming rights deals in European football. It is believed to be worth around £10 million per year.

The new stadium will open its doors at the start of the 2025/26 season, marking a major milestone in the club’s history as they prepare to leave Goodison Park, their home for more than a century.

Commercial operations

Construction on the new arena began in August 2021, with the club envisioning it as a centrepiece of Everton’s long-term ambitions both on and off the pitch.

The partnership with Hill Dickinson reflects a broader strategy by Everton’s new owners, the Friedkin Group, to strengthen the club’s commercial operations as they usher in a new era on Liverpool’s historic docks.

Eagle Football Q3 revenue halved but transfer boost softens blow

Eagle Football Group, the owner of Olympique Lyon, has reported its financial results for the third quarter of the 2024/25 fiscal year, revealing a significant decrease in revenue excluding transfer income.

According to the report, revenue fell by 51 per cent year-over-year, a decline attributed to one-off positive impacts in the previous year's third quarter. These included €27 million from the OL Feminin license and €10 million from activities that have since been deconsolidated.

Despite this downturn, the group saw an increase in ticketing and media income due to their participation in the UEFA Europa League, where they faced defeat against Manchester United in the quarter-finals. Transfer income also rose sharply, contributing €22.5 million compared to just €2 million in the same period last year. This led to a total revenue decline of only €24 year-over-year when including transfer income.

Transfer income to boost Q4

The group highlighted that additional transfer income is expected in Q4, thanks to FIFA's early opening of the transfer window ahead of the Club World Cup.

Eagle Football Holdings, the parent shareholder, has been a primary source of liquidity for the group, injecting €293 million since acquisition, including €130 million during the first nine months of this fiscal year.

Court order removes Ednaldo Rodrigues as president of Brazilian Football Federation

Ednaldo Rodrigues, the president of the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF), has been ousted from his role following a court ruling in Rio de Janeiro.

Judge Gabriel de Oliveira Zefiro ordered the suspension of Rodrigues and the entire CBF board on Thursday night, appointing one of the vice-presidents Fernando Sarney as the interim president and charging him with organising new elections for the federation.

According to a report from The Athletic, Rodrigues has recently been targeted by two petitions to Brazil's Supreme Court concerning allegations of document falsification during his re-election process in March. Congresswoman Daniela Carneiro, one of the petitioners, urged the Supreme Court to suspend and investigate Rodrigues, alleging that the signature of CBF vice-president Antonio Carlos Nunes de Lima on a crucial document was forged, bolstering Rodrigues' position within the federation.

Carneiro's petition also references a medical report from 2023 that questions Nunes de Lima's "physical and cognitive" capacity, suggesting he may have signed the document without full understanding or that his signature was fraudulently replicated without his consent.

Rodrigues appeals

The CBF has defended the authenticity of the signature and declared all related actions lawful and legitimate in a statement on May 6. However, since Rodrigues' removal, the CBF has not released an official statement.

Rodrigues, who has led the CBF since 2022 and was re-elected unopposed this March, has appealed to the Supreme Court to overturn Judge Zefiro's order. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on his re-election on May 28.

Saudi investment group acquires UD Almería

Spanish club UD Almería have announced the complete transfer of their ownership to a Saudi investment group led by SMC Group, a company with interests in media, advertising, and technology.

The group also includes notable investors such as Abna Al Theeb Group. This change in ownership comes after fulfilling all contractual obligations with the previous owner, His Excellency Turki Al Alsheikh, and is now awaiting final regulatory approval from LaLiga and other relevant authorities.

"This acquisition represents a strategic transition aimed at building on the club's progress by developing a modern, sustainable operating investment model. The new ownership is committed to enhancing the club's presence in both the sporting and commercial spheres," the club statement says.

New chairman

Mohammed Al-Khereiji will take over as Chairman of the Board of Directors, bringing his experience in media, advertising, and sports investment to the role. His leadership is expected to focus on innovation, commercial expansion, and long-term value for the club.

In the statement, UD Almería reassures its supporters, members, sponsors, and public entities that the new phase signifies a robust commitment to the club's future success.

Lenore Sports Partners, an American investment group, has acquired a 5.24 per cent stake in Benfica SAD, the company managing S.L. Benfica. This transaction marks the first significant investment by a US investor group in a top-tier Portuguese football team.

A fan-led group, remains the majority shareholder of Benfica SAD with a 64 per cent stake. Lenore's acquisition includes shares previously owned by Benfica's former president Luis Filipe Vieira, over which Benfica SAD claims a right of preference.

Benfica are currently valued between €598 million and €659 million. The club is known for its successful football academy, which recently sold striker Goncalo Ramos to Paris Saint-Germain for a substantial fee.

'Competes in an increasingly challenging environment'

The move reflects a growing trend of American investors seeking opportunities in European football, with high valuations in larger markets driving them towards smaller leagues.

According to a statement from Chapus and Elliot Hayes, another partner at Lenore with past investment experience in French football club OGC Nice, Lenore Sports Partners aims to support Benfica as it competes in an increasingly challenging football environment by leveraging opportunities for growth in various markets and sectors.

Francesco Calvo set to become Aston Villa's new President of Business

Aston Villa is poised to appoint Francesco Calvo as their new President of Business, effectively taking on the role of chief executive, as reported by Sky Sports Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio.

Calvo, who currently holds the role of Managing Director of Revenue & Institutional Relations at Juventus, will be replacing Chris Heck at Aston Villa Park.

His extensive experience also includes roles as commercial director at Barcelona and revenue director at AS Roma.

Proven expertise was key

This move underscores the financial clout of the Premier League, with Aston Villa potentially securing a spot in the Champions League next season if they win their final two games.

Villa's decision to hire Calvo was influenced by his proven expertise in football and his successful track record within the industry.

Manchester City and PSG escape EU competition law investigation

Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain will not face any action from the European Commission over allegations that they breached EU competition law, according to a report from The guardian.

La Liga president Javier Tebas had filed complaints accusing the clubs of using state resources to gain an unfair advantage, but sources familiar with the commission's preliminary assessment have indicated that a formal investigation will not be initiated.

Tebas submitted a complaint in July 2023 alleging that Manchester City and PSG received non-market resources from the governments of Abu Dhabi and Qatar, respectively. This, he claimed, distorted the market by allowing them to outspend rivals on players and coaches and obtain inflated sponsorship deals.

Lack og sufficient evidence

The European Commission has limited resources for investigations and tends to prioritise complaints that could become significant test cases with broader implications.

Sources suggest that La Liga's submission lacked sufficient evidence to meet the threshold for an investigation. The commission has declined to comment on ongoing assessments but confirmed in February that it was examining submissions related to football clubs.

UK urged to bid for men's World Cup by FIFA vice-president

FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani has called for the United Kingdom to bid for hosting the men's World Cup, citing FIFA's new approach to awarding tournaments as a reason for encouragement. Montagliani, who is also the president of Concacaf, expressed his belief that "it was time" for the tournament to return to the UK, The Times reports.

England has not sought to host the men's World Cup since the contentious vote in 2010 for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, which were marred by allegations of bribery among FIFA members—a claim both Russia and Qatar have denied.

However, with the UK set to host the 2035 women's World Cup, this could serve as a stepping stone for a future men's bid for either 2038 or 2042.

Backs FIFA's direct awards

Montagliani praised FIFA's recent model of directly awarding World Cups without a voting process on rival bids, which he believes avoids wasteful spending and past "shenanigans" associated with such votes. He supports a strategic rotation of event hosting to ensure fairness and proper business practices.

According to Montagliani, the World Cup is crucial for FIFA's revenue, which in turn funds football development across its member countries.

Alexis Ohanian acquires £20m stake in Chelsea Women

Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian has acquired a £20m stake in Chelsea Women, the reigning champions of the Women's Super League. While Chelsea has not officially commented on the transaction, Ohanian confirmed his investment and new role as a board member via social media.

Ohanian expressed his commitment to elevating women's sports, stating on LinkedIn, "I'm proud to announce that I'm joining Chelsea Women FC as an investor and board member. I'm honoured for the chance to help this iconic club become every American’s favourite WSL team and much, much more."

He emphasised his belief in the team's potential, highlighting their undefeated season and aspirations for a domestic treble.

£200 million valuation

The entrepreneur also commended Chelsea women’s chief executive Aki Mandhar for her integrity and excellence, which influenced his decision to invest. Ohanian's involvement with Chelsea Women follows his previous investment in Angel City, a women's football club based in Los Angeles.

Ohanian's investment values the women's arm of Chelsea at £200m, aligning with a valuation established during an internal sale within the club's parent company last year. This move was reportedly made to ensure compliance with Premier League financial regulations.

Marseille Mayor open to €1 billion sale of Stade Vélodrome

Marseille mayor Benoît Payan has indicated a willingness to sell the Stade Vélodrome to the football club Olympique de Marseille (OM), which currently leases the stadium. In an interview with L’Équipe de Greg, Payan mentioned a hefty price tag of €1 billion for the iconic venue.

According to Payan, the stadium is not profitable and costs the city a significant amount of money to maintain. However, he is open to selling it if OM decides to buy and can afford the purchase.

The mayor emphasised that he would only consider selling to OM and not to any external investors or private equity funds. He specifically mentioned that if OM's owner Frank McCourt expresses interest in buying and integrating the stadium into the club.

No publicly interest shown by OM

Despite this openness, OM president Pablo Longoria has not publicly shown interest in purchasing the Vélodrome. The last notable discussion on this topic was by former president Jacques-Henri Eyraud in 2018.

Currently, no formal negotiations are underway, and Payan acknowledges that a potential sale would be complex due to the infrastructure and land involved.

Juventus have signed a three-year partnership that sees Jeep return as the club’s main shirt sponsor for the next three seasons.

The logo of the US automobile company, which was previously Juventus’ principal sponsor from 2012 to 2024, will once again feature on the shirts of the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams from the start of the 2025/26 season until 2028. This covers all domestic matches, as well as all UEFA and FIFA competitions.

The agreement is worth €69 million over its duration, comprising a payment of €19 million for next season, and €23 million for each of the following two campaigns, the club have revealed.

Visit Detroit also becomes front-of-shirt partner

Meanwhile, the Turin-based club also secured a main sponsorship deal with Visit Detroit for the same duration. The US city’s convention and visitors bureau will receive branding on Juventus kits for all matches excluding UEFA and FIFA tournaments.

Although the Serie A side did not disclose the valuation of the Visit Detroit partnership, that deal is reportedly worth between €5 million and €7 million annually.

FIFA aiming to deliver $1 billion in revenue from 2027 Women’s World Cup

FIFA is aiming to generate $1 billion in revenue from the next edition of the Women’s World Cup in 2027, president Gianni Infantino said during this year’s Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh.

This would mark a significant increase on the last Women’s World Cup in 2023, which delivered revenue of $570 million.

The 2027 competition will be held in Brazil, in what will be the first edition of the tournament to be staged in South America.

Women’s World Cup growing “exponentially”, says FIFA president

“Women's football and women in football are crucially important,” said Infantino.

“It's growing as well, and exponentially, and we are targeting that as well to have $1 billion revenue just with the Women's World Cup to reinvest in the women's game.”

Earlier this week, football’s global governing body announced an expansion of the Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams from 2031, as part of a plan to support the global growth of the women’s game.

Real Madrid announce plans for new technological innovation district

Real Madrid have unveiled plans for the Madrid Innovation District (MID), and technological innovation hub within Real Madrid City, the club’s training complex.

The new 850,000 square-meter urban space will be built on a plot of land in Valdebebas, which is located near the Spanish capital’s Adolfo Suárez Airport.

The Spanish club are aiming for the MID to become a leading technology district, serving as ‘a nerve centre where talent and technology come together to shape the future’.

New district to position Madrid as “technological capital” of southern Europe

Speaking at the MID’s launch event, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said: “We are facing a new great challenge to build together a great technological city that will allow Madrid to continue advancing as an example of innovation and cutting-edge technology in the world.

“This project is a unique opportunity for Madrid to become the great technological capital of southern Europe.”

LaLiga signs two-year free-to-air broadcast deal with DAZN

LaLiga has inked a two year domestic broadcast rights deal with DAZN, which includes rights to one free-to-air (FTA) fixture per week during the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons.

In April, LaLiga did not award rights to the FTA game after the first round of its media rights tender, with 2Playbook reporting that the organisation was seeking a minimum of €4 million in any potential deal.

Although the financial terms of the new deal were not revealed, it is reportedly likely to be worth less than the €14 million valuation in the previous agreement.

Deal enables DAZN to engage new fans in Spain

“This new rights award represents a key step in our growth strategy in Spain,” said Oscar Vilda, CEO of DAZN Iberia.

“Being able to offer the LaLiga match free-to-air over the next two seasons gives us a unique opportunity to connect with new fans so they can discover the innovative experience offered by DAZN and the distinctive seal that characterises our broadcasts.”

Rob Couhig completes Reading takeover

US businessman Rob Couhig has completed his takeover of Reading through Redwood Holdings Limited, the English Football League (EFL) have confirmed.

Couhig and Todd Trosclair, who own Redwood’s parent company Dogwood LLC, will join Reading’s board with immediate effect, with the former revealed as the club’s new chairman.

The EFL, which disqualified the club's previous owner Dai Yongge in February under its owners’ and directors’ test, have approved the club’s takeover. Reading had been given an initial deadline of 4th April to find a new buyer, which was later extended by the EFL.

The agreement also includes the club’s Madejski Stadium home, as well as the Bearwood training ground.

New ownership to provide ‘honesty, transparency, and financial sustainability’

In a statement on Wednesday, Reading said: ‘The club are pleased to announce that Redwood Holdings Limited - a subsidiary company of Dogwood LLC, owned by Rob Couhig and Todd Trosclair of New Orleans, Louisiana - has completed the acquisition of 100% of the shareholding in Reading Football Club.

‘Redwood is ambitious and dedicated towards the club returning to its rightful place within the English football pyramid, while adhering to clear principles of honesty, transparency, and financial sustainability.’

Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain are demanding €98 million from their former player Kylian Mbappé, according to RMC Sport.

Last month, Mbappé had a €55 million seizure order placed on PSG’s accounts due to alleged unpaid wages and bonuses.

The club have now requested the cancellation of this seizure, as well as filing a counterclaim against the 26-year-old, who departed the Parc des Princes last summer in favour of a move to Real Madrid.

Mbappé's legal dispute with PSG

During a court hearing on Monday, a lawyer representing PSG, Renaud Semerdjian, said Mbappé owes the club money due to “delaying tactics,” describing his claim as “unfounded.”

According to PSG, the club and Mbappé struck a verbal agreement in the summer of 2023, that the striker would give up some of the money owed at the end of his contract in order to help the club financially.

However this was labelled as a “fantasy” by Mbappé's lawyer, Thomas Clay. The next court hearing is set for 26th May.
 

FA set to name Dan Ashworth as director of football operations

Former Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth is set to be revealed as the new director of football operations at the English Football Association (FA), according to UK media.

Ashworth will start his new role with immediate effect, in a move that sees him return to the FA, where he previously worked between 2012 and 2018.

The 54-year-old previously spent a brief tenure of just five months at Old Trafford, before his sacking in December. Manchester United have allowed Ashworth to join the FA, releasing him under the terms of his severance package.

Ashworth’s new position

In his new role, Ashworth will oversee the renovation of St George’s Park, the training complex for England’s national teams, as well as the development of coaches across the country.

Prior to his time in Manchester, Ashworth served as the sporting director at Newcastle United, after previously serving as the technical director at Brighton.
 

Dutch side Fortuna Sittard miss out on UEFA license and European football

Dutch club Fortuna Sittard are set to miss out on European football next season, as the club does not have a UEFA license.

Currently placed ninth in the Eredivisie, Sittard would be eligible for a playoff to secure a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Conference League if they finished in that position, however the club failed to apply for the license ahead of the 8th April deadline.

In a statement, the club said they did not meet all of UEFA’s requirements at the time, which included the submission of an external auditor’s statement.

Sittard ‘looking ahead to next season’, despite setback

Martijn Merks, general manager at Fortuna Sittard, said: “It is disappointing that we cannot reward a great sporting season.

“However, we think it is important to be transparent. We are currently busy preparing for the new Eredivisie season and in the meantime we are continuing to build on the future sustainability of the club. We expect to be able to meet the licensing requirements in the new season without any problems.”
 

Blackburn Rovers given until 18th May to state intention to finance women’s team

Blackburn Rovers have received a seven day deadline to state their intention to finance the club’s women’s team, or face relegation from the Women’s Championship, as reported by The Athletic.

The English club have been handed a deadline of 18th May by Women’s Super league Football, the governing body for the top two tiers of English women’s football which was previously known as the Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL) until its rebrand this week.

Blackburn will be required to state their intention for the team, as well as meeting the necessary club licensing criteria. If the club fail to do so ahead of the deadline, the women’s team will be relegated. Players and staff were informed on the club’s situation on Tuesday.

This comes as the latest controversy regarding Blackburn’s women’s team, after UK media reported last July that players were set to receive an annual salary of just £9,000 for the 2024/25 season, with a player budget of just £100,000.

Wolves to apply for Women’s Championship status

Recently, Wolverhampton Wanderers chairman Jeff Shi faced backlash from players after not signing the application documents for Women’s Championship status as they battled for promotion from the third tier.

Following criticism from players, the club pledged to apply for the second tier division earlier this week.
 

Goodison Park to become home of Everton’s women’s team

Goodison Park is set to become the new permanent home of Everton’s women’s team from the start of the 2025/26 season, the English club have announced.

This follows a review of the Goodison Legacy project by the club’s owners, The Friedkin Group, who completed a reported £400 million takeover of Everton last December.

With a capacity of 39,572, the stadium will become the UK’s first major standalone venue to be dedicated completely to a women’s team, replacing Walton Hall Park.

“From next season, we are proud to say our women will have an unrivalled permanent home in the WSL," said Angus Kinnear, CEO at Everton.

Everton’s new stadium plans

From next season, the Premier League team are set to move to a new 52,888-seat venue at Bramley-Moore Dock, leaving their longtime home Goodison Park, where Everton have played since 1892.

This Sunday, Everton’s men’s team will play their final game at the venue, before their highly anticipated move to their new home, which has reportedly cost £800 million to build.

The French Football Federation (FFF) is set to scrap the Professional Football League (LFP), replacing it with a new entity that will govern the top two tiers of French men’s football, according to French media.

Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 clubs will reportedly become shareholders in a new company, of which both CVC Capital Partners and the FFF will also be investors.

Philippe Diallo, president of the FFF, said: “We’re moving from a non-profit association model to a commercial structure.

“The FFF will be directly linked to the commercial entity. The Ligue, as it exists today, would disappear.”

As part of its restructuring of French professional football, the FFF is also to implement new financial rules, which would include limiting the potential number of contracts within club squads, as well as capping payrolls with new ratios that are more stringent than the current regulations.

New body could be in place for 2026/27 season

The new infrastructures are inspired by the of the Premier League, with the new governance set to assimilate that of the English top flight. The body’s board of directors will appoint its CEO, in contrast to the LFP’s structure, in which presidents would be elected.

The new organisation could be introduced before the 2026/27 campaign.
 

Union of European Clubs proposes UEFA redistributes 5 per cent of revenue for developing players

The Union of European Clubs (UEC) has revealed a new proposal, asking UEFA to redistribute five per cent of its annual revenue from club competitions to teams that helped develop players who feature in its tournaments.

Through the Player Development Reward (PDR), UEFA would set aside five per cent of its revenue from the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League, which would be given to clubs, based on the players’ number of minutes and the amount of prize money they earned.

The PDR would support the role of clubs in developing star footballers, as well as helping their financial sustainability, and providing incentives to encourage teams to invest in their youth and infrastructure.

More than 400 clubs would have received €100,000

Only clubs from UEFA member associations that did not participate in the league phase of the Champions League would be eligible for these funds. Simulations by the UEC revealed that almost 1,500 European clubs would receive PDR payments, ranging from top flight leagues to sixth-tier divisions, while more than 400 teams would have received more than €100,000.

The UEC says: ‘This policy has the potential to deliver meaningful, long-term financial recognition and reward to clubs that fuel the professional game by developing its talent.’
 

French club AC Ajaccio close to new takeover

Alain Orsoni, the owner of AC Ajaccio, has confirmed that Spanish lawyer Arnau Baqué Roig is close to completing a takeover of the French second-tier club.

Baqué Roig outlined his plans for the takeover during a press conference at the Corsican club’s Michel-Moretti Stadium home on Sunday. Speaking to French media, Baqué Roig said: “We know about ACA's difficult financial situation, but we know about its great potential and its training project.

“Ajaccio deserves to remain in the professional world, and I will be as close as possible to you to try to meet the challenge and this ACA project.”

Ajaccio’s financial issues

In February, the Ligue 2 club were previously linked with a takeover by US businessman Glenn Straub, with French media reports at the time stating that the team could be sold for just €1, due to debts of around €8 million.

Last June, Ajaccio were provisionally relegated to the French third tier, the Championnat National, by France’s National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG), due to their financial issues, however this was later overturned following a successful appeal from the club.
 

John Textor reassures fans amid potential DNCG sanctions: "Everything's fine"

Olympique Lyon’s majority owner John Textor has reassured fans, amid potential sanctions from France’s National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG).

Ahead of last Saturday’s match against Monaco, the US businessman was asked about the situation by a Lyon fan, to whom he responded: “Don’t worry, we have [the money], and we’ll spend it. Stop reading the press.”

When questioned over whether supporters can trust him, Textor replied: “Yes, you can. I've spent €293 million since I bought the club, do you think I'm going to give up because they (the DNCG) are asking us for €50 million? Everything's fine.”

Threat of sanctions from DNCG

Domestically, the Ligue 1 club were provisionally relegated to Ligue 2 last November, after their debt increased from €458 million to €509 million. Currently, Lyon are also unable to sign players.

The club’s potential demotion to France’s second tier could take effect at the end of the 2024/25 season, if they are unable to satisfy the DNCG’s requirements.
 

SC Freiburg reveal €10 million renovation of Dreisam Stadium

SC Freiburg have announced a €10 million renovation of the Dreisam Stadium, which will become the new home of the German club’s women’s and girls teams.

The redevelopment of the 24,000-seat venue, where Freiburg’s men’s team played between 1954 and 2021, is intended to provide the teams with enhanced training facilities and infrastructure in the long term.

The Dreisam Stadium will continue as the home of Freiburg’s men’s U23 side, with the club also planning to build a new ‘Children’s Sports Competence Centre’, as well as a ‘Stadium Learning Centre’ that will offer training courses and exercises for children and young people.

New project to provide “more professional conditions” for women’s and girls teams

Oliver Leki, CFO of SC Freiburg, said: “Our goal is to provide women's and girls' soccer with more professional conditions and a long-term perspective.

Freiburg say the renovation project is expected to be completed by fall 2026.