Fresh concerns have been raised about the financial health of Standard Liege, the Belgian club owned by the American investment firm 777 Partners, after it posted a loss of €20.3 million for the 2022/23 financial year.

The deficit follows a similar result in 2021/22, when the loss amounted to €20.2 million. The latest accounts, published by Belgium’s national bank, cover the first full financial year under the ownership of 777 Partners, who acquired 100 per cent of the club in March 2022.

A range of factors have been attributed to the losses in 2022/23, including a lack of income from the transfer market, a failure to qualify for the Jupiler Pro League Play-offs I, and the absence of European competition.

As for costs, Standard’s wage bill reached almost €31 million, up from €29 million in 2021/22.

The accounts also showed that debts rose from €23 million to €24 million across the year. 777 believes that part of this debt will not be attributed to it as it considers the club’s former president Bruno Venanzi responsible, although this remains to be determined.

€15 million loss targeted for 2023/24

For the 2023/24 financial year, 777 has targeted a reduction of Standard’s losses to €15 million. However, the accounts state that "the budget for the 2023-24 season has been set considering a return to playoffs 1 as a minimum.”

That aim appears ambitious at present, with the club currently sitting in ninth place in the Belgian top-flight with 20 points from 23 matches. In the 2021/22 season, they finished sixth.

The club also cannot sign new players in January after the Belgian FA imposed a transfer ban for the second time this season. The latest embargo is for delays in transfer payments and social security contributions.

Standard’s punishment has come after another club owned by 777, the Brazilian side Vaso de Gamo, was given a transfer ban, also for the late payment of transfer fees, last September.

 

Paris Saint-Germain withdraw from race to buy Stade de France

Paris Saint-Germain have decided not to pursue a move to the Stade de France after withdrawing from the race to buy the French national stadium, according to a report from Le Parisien.

The current lease to the venue, held by Vinci-Bouygues, runs out in July 2025 and the French government had requested declarations of interest in either renting the stadium or buying it altogether.

However, yesterday’s deadline for candidates interested in taking over the stadium to officially put themselves forward passed without PSG putting their name in the hat.

The club and its president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi had previously indicated their intention to apply for the purchase of the venue, which is used for the French national football team’s home matches.

It is understood PSG have now decided not to pursue the potential move due to a series of complexities, and are instead focussing on two other options: buying their current home, the Parc des Princes, or building a new stadium.

Key role played by Arctos

It is believed that the American investment group Arctos Partners, which last month acquired a minority stake in PSG – reported to be 12.5 per cent – has played a significant role in the decision to focus on other projects.

PSG have previously put forward plans to renovate and expand Parc des Princes on the condition that it becomes the stadium’s owner. However, the project has failed to progress so far amid poor relations with the city of Paris.

 

FIFA’s future in Paris in doubt as France rules against tax breaks

Doubts have emerged over whether FIFA will continue to hold an office in Paris after the French Constitutional Council ruled against giving a tax-free status to football’s global governing body in the country.

As reported by the French TV channel RMC Sport, the Constitutional Council has censured the provisions of the 2024 budget intended to attract international sports federations such as FIFA to France, judging that they disregarded "the principle of equality" before taxation.

The amendment rejected by the Council provided for the exemption of international sports federations from corporate tax and several other contributions for "their missions of governance of sport or promotion of the practice of sport", and also an exemption from income tax for employees of international sports federations domiciled in France for five years.

“Non-commercial” activities

FIFA was originally founded in Paris in 1904 before the headquarters moved to Zurich in 1932.

In 2018, French president Emmanuel Macron and FIFA president Gianni Infantino negotiated a return of parts of the world federation’s operation back to the French capital.

In February 2022 it emerged that the operations in Paris would not be subject to corporate taxes and social security contributions, as the activities were deemed “non-commercial and non-profit-making”.

However, the new ruling means that FIFA staff must pay social security contributions in France, significantly raising the costs of its operations in Paris.

FIFA has suspended the worldwide introduction of its new football agent regulations following a series of legal challenges against the rules.

The implementation will be delayed until the European Court of Justice (CJEU) delivers a final decision in relation to an injunction issued in Germany last May against the introduction of a selection of the regulations.

Injunctions have also been granted in Spain and the UK over the application of the rules, while French law in effect protects agents’ fees. It means that four of Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues have restrictions in place. There are also ongoing actions in Italy.

As reported by The Financial Times, in a letter sent to member federations on Saturday, FIFA said it had suspended the new rules globally to comply with the German ruling and “protect competitive balance at a worldwide level”, but that it had already launched an appeal.

Mandatory licensing system

FIFA's Football Agent Regulations (FFAR) include a mandatory licensing system, prohibition of multiple representation to avoid conflicts of interest and – most controversially the introduction of a cap on agent fees.

FFAR was introduced last January on a transitional basis, with an obligation by stakeholders to only use licensed agents coming into force on 1st October, 2023.

However, agents had warned that pushing ahead with the new rules would result in a chaotic January transfer window during which some – but not all – countries would have imposed the cap on fees.

FIFA said it hoped its appeal in Germany would be heard early in 2024. Lawyers and agents expect the case to end up in front of the CJEU some time in 2025.

 

Nottingham Forest appoint top sports lawyer to fight Premier League rules breach risk

Nottingham Forest have appointed leading sports lawyer Nick De Marco as they attempt to avoid Premier League charges for breaching financial regulations, according to a report from The Daily Telegraph.

The club is said to be sailing close to the wind in complying with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules, although sources insist they are confident of avoiding sanctions.

Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has invested more than £250 million on transfer fees following their return to the Premier League last season, with the club signing 43 players since winning the Championship play-off final in May 2022.

Forest will discover later this month if they are to become the third top-flight club charged with breaking the Premier League’s rules, following Everton’s 10-point deduction last year and Manchester City’s alleged breach.

It is understood that De Marco, a KC with Blackstone Chambers, has been appointed to argue Forest’s case. He has established an impressive record dealing with football, especially around financial fair play.

Premier League clubs are permitted to make losses of £105 million over a three-year period. Forest reported a loss of £45.6 million for 2021/22, following a deficit of £34.4 million in 2020/21, which was reduced to a loss before tax of £15.5 million.

Brennan Johnson sale

Forest submitted their accounts for 2022/23 last week and the crux of their argument is understood to centre around the sale of Welsh forward Brennan Johnson to Tottenham Hotspur last summer.

Johnson was sold for £47.5 million on the 1st September deadline day in a record sale for the club, and Forest will insist that they would have received a far lower fee if they had accepted an offer earlier in the summer. Brentford failed with two bids of £30 million and £35 million in June and July respectively.

 

Udinese losses ease to €3.6 million for 2022/23

Udinese have reported a loss of €3.6 million for the year ending 30th June, 2023 after suffering a far higher deficit of €69 million the previous year.

The Serie A club's turnover in 2022/23 reached €126.8 million, up from €78 million in 2021/22, with the significant increase driven largely by far higher income from player trading.

In 2022/23, Udinese earned €56.4 million from player sales, of which €50 million came from capital gains, while in 2021/22 the club generated €17.4 million from the transfer market, of which €16.9 million was from capital gains.

The key player sales in 2022/23 were those of Argentine right-back Nahuel Molina to Atletico Madrid, French right-back Brandon Soppy to Atalanta, Italian left-back Destiny Udogie to Tottenham Hotspur, and French midfielder Jean-Victor Makengo to Lorient.

Among the club’s other main revenue streams, broadcast income reached €43.3 million (€36.1 million in 2021/22), matchday revenues rose to €8 million (€5.1 million) and commercial income climbed to €10.1 million (€8.8 million).

Udinese finished in 12th place in Serie A in 2022/23 – the same position achieved in 2021/22.

Costs fall to €120.1 million

Total expenses for 2022/23 fell to €120.1 million, down from €144.4 million the previous year. Part of the decrease was linked to the higher amortisation costs in the 2021/22 accounts following the revaluation of the club in 2020.

Expenses related to depreciation, amortisation and write-downs were €48.3 million in 2022/23, compared with €62.8 million in 2021/22. Personnel costs saw a smaller decrease, falling from €41.6 million to €40.2 million, with the total wage bill declining from €36.7 million to €34 million.

 

LaLiga media rights distribution rises 3.7 per cent to €1.53 billion

LaLiga has announced that it distributed €1.53 billion in media rights revenues among its clubs in 2022/23, up 3.7 per cent compared with the €1.59 billion handed out in 2021/22.

The figure for last season marks a 15.7 per cent increase since the 2016/17 campaign. Overall, 90 per cent of the distribution was handed out to clubs in the top-tier LaLiga Santander.

Both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid earned more than €160 million each, while Atlético Madrid received €119 million. Those three were followed by Sevilla, who earned €82.3 million and Real Betis with €70 million.

The lowest amount among the 20 top-flight clubs was earned by RCD Mallorca, Elche CF and UD Almería, who all received less than €45 million.

Granada CF top LaLiga SmartBank earnings

In the second-tier LaLiga SmartBank, the club that received the most money from media rights after deducting relegation aid was Granada CF, with €9.6 million. They were followed by Levante UD with €9.1 million and Deportivo Alavés with €9 million.

LaLiga said the total amounted distributed for 2022/23 “is a good figure considering that the UK has twice as many paid football subscribers as Spain, 14 million compared to 6.4 million in our country".

 

Hellas Verona post €11.7 million loss for 2022/23

Hellas Verona have reported a loss of €11.7 million for the year ending 30th June, 2023 after finishing the previous year with a deficit of €5.1 million.

As stated in the club’s accounts for 2022/23, which have been seen by Calcio e Finanza, turnover amounted to €98.4 million, up from €84.5 million in 2021/22, with player trading the key factor behind the increased revenues.

In 2022/23, income from player sales reached €44 million, of which €30.9 million came from capital gains, while in 2021/22, revenues derived from the transfer market totalled €24.9 million, with €23.3 million from capital gains.

The outgoing transfers driving the increase in 2022/23 included those of the Serbian defensive midfielder Ivan Ilić to Torino for €15.7 million (capital gain of €8 million), Italian centre-back Nicolò Casale to Lazio for €7 million (€6.6 million), and Italian forward Gianluca Caprari to Monza for €8 million (€5.4 million).

Among Hellas Verona’s other key revenue streams, broadcast income fell to €34.1 million (€37.2 million in 2021/22), matchday revenues rose to €5.9 million (€5.3 million), and commercial income reached €10.9 million (€10.1 million).

Verona narrowly avoided relegation from Serie A in 2022/23 after finishing in 17th place before going on to defeat Spezia in the relegation playoff. In 2021/22, Verona finished in 9th place.

Costs rise to €106.9 million

Total costs for 2022/23 saw a significant increase, rising to €106.9 million, up from €88.6 million in 2021/22. The club’s wage bill reached €54.3 million, compared with €38.8 million the previous year, while depreciation and amortisation costs amounted to €25.3 million, up from €21.1 million.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has asked Manchester United fans for “time and patience” as he bids to get the club back to the “very top” of world football following the confirmation of his agreement to acquire a 25 per cent stake in the club.

Under the deal, announced by United in a statement on Christmas Eve, the British billionaire will acquire 25 per cent of the Class B shares owned by the Glazers and tender an offer for up to 25 per cent of the Class A shares at US$33 each in a deal which will not add to the club’s existing debt.

In addition, the INEOS owner has agreed to inject US$200 million (£158 million) to upgrade Old Trafford, with a further US$100 million (£79 million) due by the end of 2024, taking his total investment to around £1.25 billion.

Ratcliffe will also assume delegated responsibility for football operations under the agreement, which United said is “subject to customary regulatory approvals”. It is expected to take between four and six weeks for the deal to be ratified by the Premier League.

Fewer than 48 hours after the agreement was confirmed by United, Ratcliffe wrote an open letter to the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) outlining his hopes and wishes at Old Trafford and the “critical” role fans have to play.

“I believe we can bring sporting success on the pitch to complement the undoubted commercial success that the club has enjoyed,” he wrote. “It will require time and patience alongside rigour and the highest level of professional management.”

In comments included in United’s announcement of the deal, Ratcliffe said: "We will bring the global knowledge, expertise and talent from the wider INEOS Sport group to help drive further improvement at the Club, while also providing funds intended to enable future investment into Old Trafford."

United urged to build new stadium

Meanwhile, Ratcliffe and the Glazers have been urged to demolish Old Trafford and build a “really innovative and exciting” new stadium by the architects in charge of United’s redevelopment project. A team led by Populous, the global architectural design firm behind the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and management consultants Legends International were appointed in April 2022 to create a masterplan.

Chris Lee, managing director – EMEA / London at Populous, told The Daily Telegraph that he believes United should give serious consideration to knocking down Old Trafford and building a world-leading stadium on surrounding land.

“I feel the new build may well turn out to be the most cost effective solution,” he said, adding that such a move would allow United to keep playing at their 113-year-old home while work commenced and not suffer any hit to matchday income.

Glazers pocket than £1.3 billion

The Daily Telegraph also reported that The Glazer family will have pocketed more than £1.3 billion from share sales and dividend payments at United once Ratcliffe’s deal for a 25 per cent stake in the club is formally completed.

United’s American owners are set for a cash windfall of around £715 million from the sale of B shares to Ratcliffe provided the deal gets the regulatory go-ahead from the Premier League and the club’s Class A shareholders in the coming weeks.

The Glazers have already earned around £465 million through past sales of A shares and around £150 million in dividend payments.

 

Italy eliminates tax advantages for signing foreign footballers

Serie A clubs have suffered a major financial blow after the Italian government confirmed the removal of sports men and women from the tax reliefs provided by the Growth Decree, a law that applies to workers who move residence to Italy.

The regulation allows for the taxation on the wages of workers who relocate to Italy to be lower than on the wages of domestic workers, and has allowed Italian clubs to reduce the tax on salaries for certain players by around 50 per cent.

As reported by Italian media, the restrictions to the law in relation to football and other sports came into effect from 1st January after the government opted against extending the tax reliefs until 29th February.

However, the abolition will not be retroactive, and players who have signed a contract that allows them to take advantage of the tax benefits will be able to continue to do so for a maximum of five years.

Any players who have renewed their contract with a club will also continue to enjoy the benefits if their new deal was signed by 31st December. For all those signed after that date and for new contracts, the reliefs will no longer be applicable.

Serie A attacks government

Serie A has heavily criticised the government over the changes, and in a statement said the decision to remove the tax reliefs “will produce less competitiveness of the teams, with a consequent reduction in revenues, fewer resources to be allocated to academies, and therefore also less revenue for the [Italian] treasury.”

Lazio president Claudio Lotito also commented on the move, speaking of a "great foolishness that has been done. They will see what a hell of a mistake has been made.”

He added: “If you have a foreigner who pays taxes in Italy it will be better than one who does not come and does not pay them, right? I want to see who's coming now, great idea.”

 

FC Barcelona to sue investment fund Libero over non-payment of €40 million for Barça Vision stake

FC Barcelona are set to take legal action against the German investment fund Libero after it failed to pay the club €40 million for the purchase of a stake in their Barça Vision digital unit, Spanish media have reported.

Libero announced last August that it would be purchasing a 9.8 per cent share of Bridgeburg Invest, the holding company which controls Barça Vision.

However, according to the EFE website, Barcelona have not been paid by Libero and have decided to sue the investment firm for the failed payment after extending the deadline to pay them until 31st December, 2023.

The Catalan club are also said to be looking for another investor to purchase the 9.8 per cent stake in Barça Vision.

Deal to repurchase 29 per cent share

Barcelona initially sold 49 per cent of Barça Vision to Orpheus Media and Socios.com for €200 million last year.

Libero and an investment firm, NIPA, had agreed a deal to repurchase a 29 per cent share from Orpheus Media and Socios.com, leaving them with 9.75 per cent each, while Barcelona would retain their 51 per cent majority stake.

 

Premier League financial distribution deal with EFL on hold amid divisions between top-flight clubs

The Premier League has reportedly paused discussions with the English Football League (EFL) over the proposed new financial distribution deal due to ongoing divisions between top-tier clubs.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the long-awaited £130 million-a-year package has been put on hold after recent meetings between the 20 Premier League clubs repeatedly failed to reach consensus over a final agreement which would have seen the first cheques handed over within weeks.

Clubs had voted remotely on various proposals in the week or so before Christmas, but with no sign of imminent breakthrough, it is understood the Premier League CEO Richard Masters told clubs privately he will “pause further discussions with the EFL for the time being”.

It is believed one major point of contention has been the so-called ‘Big Six’ disagreeing with rivals over whether the top clubs will be contributing enough to the bill.

Not put to a formal vote

Top-flight clubs were asked to indicate at a Premier League shareholder meeting last month whether they would support an immediate payment within a wider package that could be worth less than originally envisaged. Sources told the newspaper that the idea was not put to a formal vote of clubs.

 

Watford in talks with US group over sale of initial minority stake

Watford are in discussions with an American investment group over the sale of an initial minority stake in the club, according to a report from The Athletic.

Talks are said to be at an early stage but sources close to the deal said they are based on a £150 million to £200 million valuation of the EFL Championship side.

According to a financial roadmap, the US group’s interest includes the potential to mount a full takeover at a later stage.

The identity of the three people leading the bid, or how the investment would be funded or structured, are not fully known at this stage, but individuals involved with the group are said to have attended Watford matches this season. They are understood to be part of an existing multi-club model looking to develop its portfolio and invest in infrastructure.

Yet to enter exclusivity period

While there appears to be goodwill on both sides to finalise a deal, it is believed the potential investors are yet to enter an exclusivity period with Hornets Investment Limited, Watford’s holding company controlled by owner Gino Pozzo. The Italian businessman has run the club, following an initial family takeover, since 2012.

 

West Ham post £18.3 million loss for 2022/23

West Ham United have reported a loss of £18.3 million for the year ending 31st May, 2023 after earning a profit of £12.3 million the previous year.

Turnover was £236.7 million, down from £252.7 million in 2021/22. The club said this was mainly due to their 14th placed finish in the Premier league, after finishing seventh the previous season, as well as lower European income despite winning the Europa Conference League, after reaching the Europa League semi-finals the previous campaign.

Broadcast revenue fell to £147.6 million, compared with £163.6 million in 2021/22, while matchday income was £41 million, a drop of £0.3 million, and commercial income was £35.1 million, an increase of £0.4 million due to slightly improved partnership income. Retail income, at £13 million, was the same as the previous year.

Record transfer spend

West Ham said that as well as the decline in turnover, the loss was caused by a record transfer spend of £183.9 million in the summer of 2022, when the club signed Lucas Paquetá, Emerson Palmieri, Nayef Aguerd and Alphonse Areola.

The Hammers also paid off the MSD Holdings Limited loan during the 2022/23 financial year, replacing it with what it said is “a more favourable Barclays overdraft facility.”

 

Everton takeover approved by Financial Conduct Authority

The proposed takeover of Everton has edged a step closer after the bid from American investment firm 777 Partners was cleared by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), as reported by The Daily Mail.

The Miami-based group agreed a deal with Everton owner Farhad Moshiri to take majority control of the club back in September, but has struggled to make progress in the three months since.

Approval from the FCA, a regulatory body in charge of maintaining the integrity of financial markets, represents a step forward for the planned takeover, although it will still need to be approved by the Premier League and English FA before it is given the green light.

Due diligence

Last month, it was reported that the Premier League has indicated to 777 Partners that it is still some way from completing its due diligence in relation to its purchase of Everton.

The complexity of 777’s finances and corporate structure, with over 60 companies involved, is understood to be proving challenging for the league to assess.

 

FIFA threatens to exclude Brazil from international competitions over presidential changes

Brazilian football is facing a chaotic start to 2024 after FIFA threatened to exclude the national team and the country's clubs from all its competitions.

The warning came after a court in Rio de Janeiro suspended the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) president Ednaldo Rodrigues from office on 7th December.

The court’s decision annulled an assembly of the federation held last year in which Rodrigues was elected to lead the CBF until 2026, and named the president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice Jose Perdiz as interim head.

The situation sparked the intervention of FIFA and CONMEBOL, which in a joint statement reminded the CBF of the principle of non-interference by states, and threatened the suspension of the federation, with the consequent "exclusion of all representatives and all clubs from any international competition".

Joint mission

FIFA and CONMEBOL have announced a joint mission to Brazil starting on 8th January to find a solution to the crisis and have "energetically" warned the CBF against taking steps to elect new leaders before that date.

Perdiz welcomed the statement from FIFA and CONMEBOL but reiterated his intention to call elections within the 30-day deadline, in compliance with the Brazilian court's ruling.

 

UEFA requests CJEU to change “inaccurate” press release on European Super League

UEFA has reportedly asked the European Court of Justice (CJEU) to amend its press statement on its decision in relation to the European Super League delivered just before Christmas.

Senior figures at European football’s governing body have told The Times they believe the statement was enhanced to make it gain more attention among global media.

The release carried the headline that “FIFA and UEFA rules on prior approval of interclub competitions, such as the Super League, are contrary to EU law”, and added that “FIFA and UEFA are abusing a dominant position”.

UEFA believes the court ruling does not validate the Super League and its lawyers have written a letter, which has been seen by The Times, to the CJEU asking for the media release to be changed, claiming it is “inaccurate” and “contradicts the judgment”.

The letter says the press statement did not include the court’s judgment also clarifying that sports organisations can seek exemptions from European competition rules if they can demonstrate it is in the public interest.

“Unofficial document”

The CJEU’s head of communications, Juan Carlos González Álvarez, told The Times it would not respond publicly to UEFA’s letter. He pointed out that the press release contained a footnote which states it is an “unofficial document for media use, not binding on the Court of Justice”.

A22, the company behind the European Super League project, has unveiled a proposal for a new competition following the European Court of Justice (ECJ)’s ruling that banning clubs from joining a breakaway league was unlawful.

During a presentation shown on YouTube, A22 said the competition would involve 64 men's and 32 women's teams playing midweek matches in a league system across Europe.

In a statement, the company said participation would be “based on sporting merit with promotion/relegation and no permanent members.” It added that “the new proposed competition will not interfere with domestic league calendars.”

The format for the men's competition includes 64 teams in three leagues – Star, Gold and Blue. The Star and Gold Leagues would have 16 clubs each while the Blue League would have 32 clubs.

Teams would play home and away in groups of eight, which would mean a minimum of 14 matches a year. There would be annual promotion and relegation between leagues while teams could qualify for the Blue League based on domestic league performance. The women's competition would have two leagues of 16 clubs each.

"This vision is based on extensive consultation with a wide range of football stakeholders across Europe,” A22 said.

“Now that the CJEU has paved the way, A22 will discuss its proposal with all relevant stakeholders in the coming weeks with the aim of advancing the initiative as quickly as possible.”

Streaming platform

A22 also said that matches would be available to watch for free through the creation of “the leading direct-to-fan sports streaming platform in the world called Unify.”

A22 CEO Bernd Reichart saidclubs would be invited to shape the new competition, although he declined to name any teams that could become part of the new league.

"Our proposal has to be convincing and we invite clubs to shape and to help shape this proposal," he said.

 

ECJ ruling: UEFA and FIFA underline commitment to European pyramid as Barça and Real Madrid welcome decision

Governing bodies, leagues and clubs reacted swiftly yesterday to the ruling from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) that UEFA and FIFA contravened EU law by stopping the formation of a European Super League.

A22, the company behind the Super League project, said it “welcomes this decision and believes this is a historic day for football its fans, its players, its clubs and its leagues.”

However, UEFA was quick to defend its position and its own rules. In a statement, the European governing body said: “This ruling does not signify an endorsement or validation of the so-called ‘super league’.

“It rather underscores a pre-existing shortfall within UEFA's pre-authorisation framework, a technical aspect that has already been acknowledged and addressed in June 2022.

“UEFA is confident in the robustness of its new rules, and specifically that they comply with all relevant European laws and regulations.”

In a press conference, UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin declared that “football is not for sale" and said he also felt the ECJ decision was based on "old facts".

FIFA also issued a statement, saying it “will now analyse the decision in coordination with UEFA, the other confederations and the member associations before commenting further.”

The global governing body added: “In line with its Statutes, FIFA firmly believes in the specific nature of sport, including the pyramid structure – which is underpinned by sporting merit – and the principles of competitive balance and financial solidarity.”

FC Barcelona and Real Madrid back judgement

In Spain, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid – the only two clubs to have maintained their support of the European Super League project – both welcomed the decision.

Barcelona said in a statement that it “feels the sentence paves the way for a new elite level football competition in Europe by opposing the monopoly over the football world, and wishes to initiate new discussions as to the path that European competitions should take in the future.”

In a video posted on social media, Barça president Joan Laporta added: “The time has come for clubs to have greater control over their destiny. With an improved European competition and more resources from the clubs, the national leagues will become more balanced and competitive.”

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez commented on the ECJ’s judgement in a video published on the club’s website, declaring it a "great day for the history of football".

LaLiga: Ruling “does not endorse European Super League”

However, LaLiga stressed in a statement that the ruling “does not endorse the European Super League.” It added: “The CJEU has been clear in stating that ‘a competition such as that of the Super League project should not necessarily be authorised.’ LaLiga … celebrates these words that coincide with the formal position expressed by 23 national governments of the EU and the EEA.”

The English Premier League also issued a response to the ECJ’s judgement, emphasising that as regards the proposed European Super League it “continues to reject any such concept,” while Manchester United said in a statement they remain "fully committed" to UEFA competitions.

The Union of European Clubs also commented, saying it “welcomes the ECJ’s decision confirming UEFA's crucial regulatory role in safeguarding fair and balanced competition in European football.”

 

Standard Liege and KV Oostende punished by Belgian FA over missed payments

Belgian clubs Standard Liege and KV Oostende have both been punished by the country’s FA for delays in transfer payments and social security contributions.

The two teams are both part of multi-club groups whose operations are attracting growing scrutiny. Standard Liege are owned by 777 Partners, while KV Oostende are under the control of Pacific Media Group (PMG).

Standard Liege have been placed under a transfer ban for the second time this season. The first came after a non-payment of group insurance, which was quickly rectified.

The latest ban, which will be in place for the January transfer window, relates to non-payments for the signings of Norwegian winger Aron Dønnum and Morocco midfielder Ilyes Ziani, as well as missed social security payments.

Standard’s punishment comes after another club owned by 777, the Brazilian side Vaso de Gamo, were given a transfer ban, also for the late payment of transfer fees, back in September.

KV Oostende deducted nine points

KV Oostende have been hit with two separate punishments this week. The first came on Wednesday, with a transfer ban and three-point deduction, followed by a further six-point penalty yesterday.

The club is being punished over a failure to keep up with transfer payments, in this case relating to Colombian forward Juan David Fuentes Garrido, who arrived from FC Barcelona, and Croatian defender Mateo Barac, who has joined the club on loan from Russian side Samara.

In addition, it was ruled that Oostende had not fulfilled its obligations over social security and federal debts, as well as withholding tax for the month of October and the club’s VAT return for September.

The penalties leave the club bottom of the Challenger Pro League table on just seven points. They were relegated from the Jupiler Pro League last season.

In a statement following the announcement of the transfer ban and initial three-point deduction, Oostende said it will appeal against the punishments. Interim CEO Benjamin Ehresmann said: “We will do everything we can to avoid that points deduction. That’s the full focus.”

Earlier this month, it was reported that Oostende will be forced to file for bankruptcy if fresh investment is not found by the end of the year. Concerns have mounted about the financial management of the club by PMG, which acquired the side back in 2020.

 

Slavia Prague confirm takeover by Czech billionaire Pavel Tykač

Slavia Prague have confirmed that the Czech billionaire Pavel Tykač has agreed to take over the club from Chinese investment group CITIC.

In a statement, Slavia Prague said the deal to acquire the club and its stadium in Edenis expected to be completed by the end of February and is subject to approval from regulatory authorities in the Czech Republic and China.

Tykač, owner of the Sev.en nergy and investment groups that have been expanding in recent years, added in a separate announcement that he had signed an agreement with CITIC to buy one of the country's biggest clubs along with its stadium.

Slavia Prague chairman Jaroslav Tvrdík said: "We have undoubtedly experienced the most successful period in modern Slavia history. We became the leader of positive changes in Czech football, and thanks to our activities, we have a strong presence throughout Europe. Additionally, today we are a profitable club at the peak of both sporting and financial performance.

“Pavel Tykač is an experienced Czech entrepreneur, investor, and lifelong Slavia fan with a significant family tradition in the red and white jersey. We all believe that his entry into the club will be a great contribution to Slavia´s further development.”

“Furthering Slavia’s development”

Tykač added: "I am among the loyal Slavia fans, just as my father and grandfather were. Being able to contribute to furthering Slavia’s development is a great honour for me. I hope that one day, my children will continue my work.”

Everton’s prospective new owner, 777 Partners, has come under fresh scrutiny after a top British-based sports agency cut ties with the American investment firm, The Daily Mail has reported.

777 is currently awaiting Premier League approval to take over the Merseyside club having agreed terms with owner Farhad Moshiri in September.

However, the Miami-based group has suffered a fresh blow after one of its leading UK partners, the sports marketing powerhouse Redstrike, pulled the plug on a joint venture they founded only last year.

777 first linked up with Redstrike in 2021 over a proposal to fund a Formula One race in east London. A year later, they entered into a joint venture and formed a new company, Redstrike Partners Limited, with 777 co-founder Josh Wander listed on Companies House as the sole shareholder.

It is understood that Redstrike has now written to a number of football stakeholders to make it be known it is no longer linked with 777.

While the letter does not divulge the details of the fall-out, it states it is cutting ties with “immediate effect” and adds: “Redstrike cites a breakdown of the business relationship between it and 777.”

Takeover process

The development casts a further cloud over 777’s business dealings at a critical time of the Everton takeover process, with the Premier League still scrutinising the source and sufficiency of its funds.

The league has indicated to the firm that it is still some way from completing its due diligence. The complexity of 777’s finances and corporate structure, with over 60 companies involved, is understood to be proving challenging for the Premier League to assess.

 

Manchester United set for quiet January transfer window amid concerns over Premier League’s financial rules

Manchester United football director John Murtough has warned that the club will be limiting their spending in the January transfer window as they seek to ensure they do not breach the Premier League’s financial rules.

Murtough told a United fans’ forum that they will not be busy in the January window, with the focus on trimming their squad rather than adding to it.

Everton were docked 10 points last month for breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules. While United are within the limits, two summers of spending totalling £412 million have left them with little room for manoeuvre and heightened the importance of sales next year.

“We’ve seen this season that financial fair play rules have real teeth, so we have to be very careful to ensure that we remain compliant, and we will,” Murtough said.

“But that means being really disciplined on spending going forward, with a balance between incomings and outgoings. Looking ahead to the January transfer window, we are not expecting it to be particularly busy. Our recruitment strategy remains focused on summer windows.”

“Careful consideration for the club”

United’s legal counsel Patrick Stewart, who has taken over as interim CEO following Richard Arnold’s departure, added: “All Premier League clubs are taking FFP seriously, and it remains a careful consideration for the club that we remain compliant.”

Ensuring United’s spending is in line with the Premier League’s rules is an added headache for incoming minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is still hoping his intended £1.3 billion purchase of a 25 per cent stake in the club could be announced this week.

 

FIGC president Gravina: Italian clubs who join European Super League will be excluded from domestic game

Gabriele Gravina, the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has given a fresh warning to clubs ahead of the European Court of Justice (ECJ)’s ruling over the European Super League, due this morning.

The ECJ will deliver its final binding verdict over whether UEFA and FIFA abused a dominant position under European competition law by blocking the creation of the Super League and seeking to sanction the clubs involved following its original botched launch back in April 2021.

Speaking yesterday at the FIGC’s latest meeting of its Federal Council, Gravina said any Italian club that signs up to a breakaway European Super League will effectively be excluded from domestic football in the country.

“Let's wait for tomorrow,” he said. “We as a federation are totally against [the European Super League]. There is a rule that those who join that would leave the federal football system. We cannot prevent anyone from joining, but the choice, if it does happen, must be very clear.”

“Brand of Italian football”

Gravina added: “It is unthinkable to play two or three championships within a series of organisations. We are already fighting internally about the dates available for the [Italian league].

“You can imagine what would happen if we added another competition. I have to safeguard the brand of Italian football and you have to know what you're up against."

 

Salernitana post €29.6 million loss for 2022/23 as costs spiral

Salernitana have reported a loss of €29.6 million for the year ending June 30th, 2023 after suffering a deficit of €16.8 million the previous year.

The result came despite total revenues, including transfer income, rising to €70.9 million, up from €46.2 million the previous year. Costs also saw a marked increase, reaching €106.4 million, compared with €66.1 million in 2021/22.

The Salerno-based team, who are currently bottom of Serie A, finished in 15th place in the Italian top-flight last season after ending the previous campaign in 17th place and narrowly avoided relegation.

The club was taken over by Italian businessman Danilo Iervolino in January 2022 after earning promotion back to Serie A for the first time in 23 years in May 2021.

In 2022/23, broadcast income reached €33.8 million, compared with €28.3 million the previous year, while matchday revenues rose to €8.5 million, up from €6.8 million in 2021/22, and commercial income amounted to €7.6 million, compared with €5.7 million the previous year.

Player trading generated €14.6 million, of which €14.4 million came from capital gains, largely due to the sale of Brazilian defensive midfielder to Atalanta. In 2021/22, the club earned just €0.7 million from player sales, of which €0.2 million was from capital gains.

Wage bill rises to €63.7 million

Salernitana’s wage bill reached €63.7 million in 2022/23, compared with €44.6 million the previous year, with the outlay on player salaries rising to €44.5 million, up from €25 million.

Salary expenditure on first-team coaching staff was €5.8 million (€3.5 million in 2021/22), while costs related to player depreciation and amortisation reached €13.8 million (€5.3 million).

 

Player Valuation Update: Bellingham closes in on Vinicius - Man City reaches new heights

The last 2023 revision of the Off The Pitch Player Valuation Tool has landed.

Jude Bellingham, secured by Real Madrid for €103 million, has spectacularly outshone expectations with 22 goal contributions across competitions. His towering €186 million valuation now ranks him as the world's third highest-valued player, trailing just behind Vinicius Jr. (€187 million) and Erling Haaland (€226 million).

This season's other notable ascenders include the youthful prodigies Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona, at €64 million and PSG's Warren Zaire-Emery at €41 million.

Despite fluctuating on-field performances, Manchester City's squad valuation has hit a staggering new peak in this update, reaching a colossal €1.79 billion. This places them over €350 million ahead of Arsenal, currently ranked second.

Leverkusen second most valuable team

The most remarkable growth in squad value is observed at Bayer Leverkusen, now surpassing Dortmund as the Bundesliga's second most valuable team.

Their €612 million squad valuation owes greatly to Florian Wirtz's impressive €109 million worth, along with the substantial value increases of Jeremie Frimpong and Victor Bonfiface, both crossing the €50 million threshold.

Hopes have risen that the long-awaited deal for car manufacturer Porsche to acquire a 10.8 per cent stake in VfB Stuttgart could be finalised in the coming weeks.

According to Kicker, the deal was due to be discussed at the DFL’s latest Executive Committee meeting yesterday.

The agreement was first unveiled at the end of June, when the Bundesliga club announced a sponsorship package worth up to €100 million with Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and MHP.

However, a key part of the agreement – Porsche’s acquisition of a stake in the club for €41.1 million – was yet to be finalised. The sports car giant was due to complete the investment in two tranches, with the first in the autumn, and the second in early summer 2024.

DFL approval

The deal has been held up by a series of delays, but VfB Stuttgart CEO Alexander Wehrle has said he is now hopeful that it can be completed within the next few weeks.

"We got the go-ahead from the DFL for the first tranche,” he said. “For the second one, we will have to get it from the DFL next year."

 

Real Madrid appeal over CSD approval of LaLiga TV access requirements upheld by Spanish court

A Spanish court has upheld an appeal from Real Madrid over the new TV access requirements and media rights distribution introduced by LaLiga at the start of this season.

As reported by Marca, the Contentious-Administrative Chamber of the National High Court has upheld the appeal filed by the club against the agreement of the CSD (National Sports Council) in approving the amendments to the regulations related to the broadcasting of LaLiga matches.

In the latest twist in the ongoing legal battle between the two parties, the verdict is being viewed as proof that Los Blancos have the power not to give up their audio-visual rights at their stadium up to two minutes before and after the match.

LaLiga announced that it will appeal the ruling and in a statement said that the “judgement is not final and, as the decision itself acknowledges, carries out an analysis limited to the field of public law.”

The league added: “It does not, therefore, prejudge matters of private law, private associative agreements adopted by the competent bodies of LaLiga or, more generally, the marketing of television broadcasting rights whose regime falls within the competence of the civil courts.”

Request to suspend changes

Back in August, Real Madrid filed a separate complaint with Spain’s national criminal court, Audiencia Nacional, requesting the suspension of the changes introduced by LaLiga.

The club accused the Spanish league and its president Javier Tebas of corporate crimes, including disloyal administration, misappropriation, imposition of abusive agreements and corruption in business.

However, the court rejected the club’s appeal over the issue and upheld a decision made by the Central Court of Instruction in September to dismiss its complaint.

 

Aston Villa stadium expansion plans on hold due to transport concerns ahead of Euro 2028

Aston Villa’s plans to expand the capacity of their stadium to 50,000 have been put on hold due to concerns over public transport accessibility as well as costs.

Villa’s president of business operations, Chris Heck, told the club’s website that he believes it would be a “bad idea” to pursue plans to expand Villa Park.

The club’s long-term plan had been to increase capacity by 8,000 in time for the venue to be a host ground for Euro 2028. The proposal was to knock down the North Stand over two seasons and complete the renovations the season before Euro 2028, in line with UEFA guidelines.

However, as reported by The Athletic, concerns over transport links required local councils to generate around £30 million to develop nearby railway station, Witton.

UEFA stated it would expect 80 per cent of supporters to travel to Euro 2028 games at Villa Park on public transport. Without redeveloping Witton, this was not anticipated to be feasible.

Heck said: “I became more concerned we were adding too many seats too fast. So I do believe it’s important we took a step back and re-evaluate what’s best. I mention this with transportation and the parking.”

£100 million project

Last April, Villa’s then CEO Christian Purlsow announced plans to rebuild the North Stand and provide a “world-class entertainment venue” known as Villa Live. Costs were roughly projected to be around £100 million.

However, revised plans were since drawn up with inflation taking hold and meaning those initial costs were expected to have increased significantly.

Heck added: “I think it would be a bad idea to tear down one of our stands for two years playing like we are.” He also revealed that new plans will focus on revamping existing space, including the creation of a hospitality and entertainment zone for 3,000 fans.

 

Villarreal CF return to profit with €3.6 million surplus for 2022/23

Villarreal CF have announced that the club returned to profitability in the year ending 30th June 2023, with a surplus of €3.6 million.

The positive result was the first for the club since before the Covid-19 pandemic. It revealed the profit in a short statement but did not report the total revenues for the year or any other figures.

It is likely that revenues were boosted by player sales – mostly to Premier League clubs – which according to media reports have reached around €140 million since the summer of 2022.

Forecast to break even in 2023/24

Villarreal forecast that the club will break even in 2023/24, with total revenues of €143.7 million and expenses of the same amount.

The club have reached the last 16 of the Europa League this season after reaching the knockout stages of the Europa Conference League in 2022/23.

 

Reading owner Dai Yongge fined £20,000 for failing to deposit wages

Dai Yongge, the owner of EFL League One club Reading, has been fined £20,000 for failing to deposit funds to cover wages.

The Chinese businessman was charged with misconduct by the EFL in September after not depositing enough money to cover 125 per cent of the club’s projected monthly wage bill.

In a statement, the EFL said it had recommended Dai be banned from all football activity, including ownership and control, for 12 months, but an independent disciplinary commission opted against enforcing it.

The EFL said the commission “felt a disqualification would not achieve the immediate objective of sourcing the required funds for the deposit account.”

However, the commission described Dai's actions as "deliberate misconduct". A further £50,000 fine issued by the commission has been suspended until 12 January, 2024, and that will be triggered if he fails to deposit the required amount in full.

Dai, who is looking to sell the troubled club, is also required to maintain the deposit levels set out by the EFL until at least the end of August 2024.

Ten points deducted this season

The EFL said it did not feel another sporting sanction against Reading was appropriate in this case as they were taking direct action against the owner. The club has already had 10 points deducted this season for financial breaches.

“The League will have no hesitation in bringing further charges against Mr Dai if he fails to comply with the Commission’s directive,” the EFL added.

The Premier League has lodged a formal complaint to FIFA over its failure to consult with leagues and clubs about the new 32-team Club World Cup, according to The Daily Mail.

It was reported over the weekend that FIFA has set aside 15th June to 13th July in 2025 for the inaugural edition of the expanded tournament in the USA, with the final set to take place around a month before the new English top-flight season.

There will be 12 representatives from Europe, with the participation of Chelsea and Manchester City already determined as recent Champions League winners. Teams will play up to seven matches in four weeks.

It is understood the Premier League has signed a letter of complaint sent to FIFA by the World Leagues Forum, which represents 44 of the world’s top domestic leagues, also including LaLiga, Serie A and the Bundesliga.

‘Failing to exercise its responsibilities’

The strongly-worded letter is believed to accuse FIFA of failing to exercise its responsibilities as the world's governing body and to claim that it prioritises its own interests instead by scheduling more matches to generate ever-greater revenue.

In its letter the World Leagues Forum also claims that FIFA is ignoring the best interests of the clubs by overloading the calendar and putting the players' health at risk.

FIFA insists that player welfare has been one of its main considerations in planning the tournament, with all teams guaranteed a minimum of three days' rest between matches.

 

Manchester United face drop of up to £40 million in matchday income after early exit from Europe

Manchester United’s matchday revenue could fall by as much as £40 million for the 2023/24 financial year following their early exits from Europe and the Carabao Cup.

In 2022/23, United played a club record 33 home games in all competitions, which generated their biggest ever matchday income of £136.4 million – an average of more than £4 million per match.

However, as reported by The Independent, United could play as few as 23 times at Old Trafford this season, depending on whether they get any home FA Cup ties – they are away at Wigan in the third round – and will have a maximum of 26 matches at their own ground.

As a result, matchday income may drop to under £100 million this season. In 2021/22, when they had 26 home games, the club’s matchday revenue was £110.5 million.

This season, United played just once on their own turf in the Carabao Cup, losing to Newcastle United 3-0, and three times in the Champions League, where finishing bottom of Group A means they do not even drop into the Europa League.

By contrast, they had six home Europa League matches last season and four each in the Carabao and FA Cups, when they were drawn at Old Trafford in each round.

Lower UEFA broadcast income

Aided by their 33 home matches, United posted record revenues of £648.4 million for 2022/23. They originally forecasted that figure to rise again, to between £650 million and £680 million, for the current year. However, their early exit from the Champions League will also cost them broadcast income from UEFA.

United missed out on an initial £8.2 million, which they would have received if they had reached the last 16, and up to £45 million if they had won the competition. However, because they only took four points in their pool, they only earned around £3 million.

 

Morecambe and owner Jason Whittingham charged by EFL over player payment deposit failure

EFL League Two club Morecambe and owner Jason Whittingham have been charged by the league for failing to adhere to an agreed decision imposed in August after the club failed to pay players on time.

The troubled Lancashire club, who have been up for sale for 15 months, had been given a suspended three-point deduction over the issue.

Whittingham had been told to deposit an amount equal to 125 per cent of Morecambe’s monthly wage bill to cover any future delays. However, in a statement, the EFL said that on 4th September the deposited funds had been used without being re-deposited.

"Mr Whittingham's failure to re-deposit the funds has led to personal charges, while the club has also been charged for failing to meet deposit account requirements," the EFL said.

"The charges will now be considered by an independent disciplinary commission with the outcome to be communicated by the EFL once a decision is reached."

Club looks to speed up search for new owners

Morecambe released a statement in response, saying that the club’s owner Bond Group had instructed "specialist sport lawyers to defend the club's and owner's position" at the commission hearing.

The statement added: "The board remains focused on the priority of ensuring that Morecambe Football Club meets all its obligations, which means working with Bond Group to prevent cashflow issues and doing everything within its powers to expedite the process of finding new ownership as quickly as possible.”

 

Michele Kang expands multi-club group with acquisition of London City Lionesses

American businesswoman Michele Kang has further expanded her multi-club operation with the purchase of London City Lionesses, the only fully independent women’s side in England’s top two professional football divisions.

Kang, who owns the NWSL’s Washington Spirit, also took over the Lyon women’s team, Lyon Féminin, after acquiring a majority stake in the side earlier this year.

London City Lionesses compete in the second-tier Women’s Championship and are the only side in that league or the Women’s Super League (WSL) not attached to a club with a men’s team. Kang takes over from Diane Culligan, who founded the side in 2019.

New governance structure

The acquisition of London City Lionesses follows the announcement late last month that the WSL and Women’s Championship have agreed to proceed with a new governance structure called ‘NewCo’ for the women’s professional game in the country from the 2024/25 season.

Among the goals of the club-owned model and breakaway from the English FA is allowing greater private investment in the women’s game.

Kang said: “The NewCo model is a great example of how women’s sports will be uplifted in England and globally. We need more investment focused solely on the female game so that the resources are uncompromised.”

Aston Villa’s holding company V Sports has entered into an agreement with the American investment company Atairos for it to become a minority partner and help improve its multi-club structure.

In a statement, Villa said the investment from Atairos into V Sports “will primarily be used to fund growth and infrastructure investments, with the aim of creating material and sustainable value for AVFC and the broader V Sports network over time.”

V Sports has had full control of Villa since 2019. In February this year, it agreed a deal to acquire a 46 per cent stake in Portuguese club Vitoria SC. It also has partnerships with teams in Spain, Egypt and Japan.

Villa emphasised that V Sports, which is jointly controlled by Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, will continue to own 100 per cent of the Premier League club and remain in control of all club-related decisions.

“Compelling vision”

Sawiris and Edens said: “V Sports is delighted to be partnering with a long-term strategic investor in Atairos who shares our compelling vision for the future of the Club and our passion for football.

“This exciting partnership enhances the Club’s financial footing and strengthens its ability to compete in England and in Europe. V Sports is fully committed to further investment in Aston Villa FC and its men’s and women’s teams and looks forward to its continued growth and success.”

 

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis converts another £11 million of loans into shares

Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of Nottingham Forest, has converted a further £11 million of loans into shares for the club’s 2022/23 financial year.

The move, which reduces Forest’s debt and is said to underline Marinakis’ desire to stay in the Premier League, marks the fourth consecutive year in which the Greek shipping magnate has converted club debt into equity.

In the 2021/22 financial year, the Forest owner converted £41 million worth of loans into shares. That followed a similar conversion of £12 million in 2020/21 and over £20 million in 2019/20.

In a statement, the club said: “The additional financial commitment from the owner further relieves the financial burden on the club and underscores Evangelos Marinakis’ continued dedication to the club's success.

“The move forms part of the club’s financial process for its 2022/23 accounts. Details of the arrangement have been submitted to Companies House.”

Strengthen squad

Forest hope to strengthen their squad again in the January transfer window, but their budget may be influenced by their ability to move players out of the club.

Marinakis oversaw another 13 signings in the summer, taking Forest’s investment in the transfer market to £250 million since their return to the Premier League last season.

 

FIFA Club World Cup set to take place over 29 days in summer of 2025

The first edition of FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup will be spread across 29 days in the summer of 2025 and will finish around a month before the new Premier League season, Sky News has reported.

Sources have told the TV news channel that FIFA has set aside 15th June to 13th July in 2025 for the inaugural edition of the 32-club men's tournament in the USA.

The Club World Cup dates were due to be presented to a FIFA Council meeting yesterday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

It is believed the tournament would follow the end of the European season and the 2nd-10th June slot already set aside for two international matches – potentially 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Europe.

There will be 12 representatives from Europe, with the participation of Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester City already determined as recent Champions League winners.

Fresh concerns over player workload

The expansion of the Club World Cup has sparked fresh concerns about an additional workload on players. According to Sky, the global players' union FIFPRO has told FIFA that some players in the 2024/25 season might be required for more than 80 matches for club and country.

That would represent a 10 per cent rise on the current upper limits. It is understood the union also told FIFA that players need a mandatory 28-day off-season break.

WSL targets £20 million for next domestic TV deal – increase of 150 per cent

The English Women’s Super League is to seek an increase of more than 150 per cent in the value of its domestic TV deal when it issues the tender document next month, according to The Daily Mail.

The current joint deal with Sky Sports and the BBC is worth £7.5 million a year and the WSL is said to be targeting around £20 million from the next contract as it looks to capitalise on the explosion of interest driven by the success of England’s Lionesses.

However, the league is understood to be facing a challenge in persuading broadcasters that its product merits such a huge rise.

The WSL is set to follow the Premier League’s example by making more games available for broadcast, but it is believed this is not guaranteed to work because the market for live matches is close to saturation point.

Sky and TNT Sports to bid

Sky remains a big supporter of women’s football and plans to bid, but the broadcaster is not desperate for extra matches as it will show more than 1,000 EFL games per season from next year and at least 215 from the Premier League 12 months later.

TNT Sports also intends to bid, and is supportive of proposals for the WSL to get the Saturday 3pm broadcast slot, a move which would require the partial lifting of UEFA’s Article 48.

The BBC also wants WSL games, but as it is only contributing around £750,000 a year to the existing deal it is unlikely to fund a large increase.

The total fees paid to agents for international transfers this year has risen to a record high of $888 million – up 42.5 per cent on last year’s figure of $623.2 million, according to FIFA’s latest Football Agents in International Transfers Report.

The 2023 total surpasses the previous record, pre-Covid, from 2019 of $654.7 million by more than one third.

The largest amount of agent fees were paid by clubs from England, with a combined total of more than $280 million. Despite not investing in releasing-club agents, Saudi Arabian clubs had the second-biggest spending on engaging-club agents with $86 million.

The number of international transfers with an agent acting on behalf of the player reached a record high in 2023 with a total of 3,353 transfers.

The report added that for the first time clubs in women’s professional football spent more than $1 million on agent fees, with a total outlay of just under $1.4 million. Club agents were present in a record number of 125 transfers, an increase of more than 20 per cent compared to 2022.

Only 32.6 per cent pass new agent exam

The report also covered the new exam introduced this year as part of the FIFA Football Agent Regulations (FFAR). Passing the exam is required in order to receive a FIFA licence.

FIFA said it received 19,973 licensing applications and that 9,207 took the exam across 157 countries – but only 32.6 per cent passed.

 

Bournemouth owner Foley: Target is Europe in five years and work on new stadium set to begin in 2025

Bill Foley, who this week celebrated a year since taking control of Bournemouth, has said he is confident the club can qualify for Europe within five years and that work on the club’s new stadium is likely to begin in 2025.

In a wide-ranging interview with The Guardian, the American billionaire said Bournemouth should take inspiration from the history-making rise of Brighton, who have played in Europe for the first time this season.

“I want Bournemouth to play in Europe – that’s our goal,” he said. “It’s not going to be easy but I’m confident we can get there. Brighton are a great inspiration, they do a terrific job. I certainly think we can be in Europe within five years.”

Bournemouth – who have risen to 14th in the Premier League with four wins in their last five games – hope to move in to their new training facility next October and to begin work on a new stadium, on the site of their existing training base which is next door to their current ground, the following year.

“I don’t believe we can get the stadium under way until probably 2025,” Foley said. “If we accomplish that then we could be finished by possibly the summer of 2027. That would be perfect and ready for the 2027-28 season. That is probably our goal, our target.”

He added: “The current plan is for it to be 18,500 in capacity, which doesn’t sound that big an increase [the Vitality Stadium’s capacity is just over 11,000], but it is going to have the right hospitality, the right restaurants and it is going to be a major upgrade.”

Hibernian stake

Foley, who owns the NHL side Vegas Golden Knights, also confirmed plans to add to his footballing portfolio by acquiring a stake in the Scottish Premiership side Hibernian, after gaining a licence to create an Auckland-based A-League club.

Foley, who bought the Ligue 1 side Lorient last year, also wants a Belgian club. “That is my goal, to develop these other teams in support of Bournemouth and for Bournemouth to support those other teams,” he said.

 

Swindon Town and chairman Clem Morfuni charged with breaching EFL rules

Swindon Town and the club's chairman Clem Morfuni have been charged with breaching EFL rules over a transfer of shares.

In a statement, the EFL said the charges relate to a transfer of a 17.1 per cent shareholding to Hollie Kiely of Swinton Reds 20 Ltd in September 2022.

Morfuni has been charged for failing to disclose to the club’s management the transfer of the shareholding. The EFL said this led to Swindon breaching the requirement to disclose to the league details of any shareholder with more than 10 per cent of voting rights and failing to update the official club website with the details for public record.

The statement added: “Confirmation of the share transfer came to light following its publication at Companies House in August 2023, meaning the Club had been in breach of its obligations for the majority of the 2022/23 season.

“No charges have been issued in respect of a transfer of a 5% shareholding because that does not exceed the 10% reporting threshold in EFL Regulations.”

Committed to the club

Morfuni, an Australian businessman, became Swindon’s majority shareholder in July 2021. Last month, he insisted he remained committed to the financially-troubled club and denied he is looking to sell. The team are ninth in League Two, one point away from the play-off places.

Lyon have announced that the club has signed agreements with former president Jean-Michel Aulas for the buyback of shares and the abandonment of legal complaints against his successor as owner, John Textor.

The Ligue 1 club said in a statement that the share purchase agreement, approved by the board of directors, provides for the buyback of "one third of the shares" still held in the club by Aulas' family holding company, Holnest, i.e. 4,826,540 shares at a price of €3 per unit, or about €14.5 million.

The share purchase agreement is in line with the settlement agreement between the parties finalised back in May.

Lyon said they have also signed a new agreement with Holnest and Aulas “to mutually terminate and waive the various proceedings and actions currently pending between the parties.” The club said it believes this will “normalize its relations” with the former president and his company.

The statement added: “The Parties shall make their best efforts for completion of the transfer under the Share Purchase Agreement to occur by 31 December 2023, and in any case at the latest on 16 January 2024 (or at such other date as agreed in writing between the Parties).

“Upon completion of the buyback, Holnest will withdraw from the related legal proceedings.”

Aulas welcomes agreements

In comments reported by L'Équipe, Aulas said: "Thank you to John for reaching out to me to unite our efforts for an OL that needs it but will come back. All legal proceedings have been halted and the initial agreement of 8 May will be respected. My commitment to the FFF and women's football will be total. Thank you.”

Lyon’s announcement came after their 3-0 Ligue 1 win over Toulouse on Sunday, a match that gave Textor and Aulas the opportunity to appear together for the first time in several months.

 

West Brom edge closer to £60 million takeover – owner Lai to choose preferred bidder

West Bromwich Albion are reported to be edging closer towards a sale of the club, with current owner Guochuan Lai set to choose a preferred bidder amid talks over a potential £60 million deal, according to The Daily Telegraph.

Three consortiums – including one from the US and one from Nigeria – are believed to be in advanced discussions over a takeover of the club, who are currently fifth in the EFL Championship.

Lai, the Chinese businessman who has proved to be a controversial and unpopular owner, is under heavy pressure to sell up and is expected to grant exclusivity to the best option within the next 10 days.

West Brom are available for around £30 million, plus the various debts and loans owed which take the overall price closer towards £60 million. It is understood the American group is currently in pole position.

Race against time

West Brom are under pressure to slash costs in the January transfer window. A takeover would offer some protection against a fire sale of players, so the club are facing a race against time to complete a takeover before the end of next month.

Any sale would finally bring Lai’s stormy tenure to an end, after more than seven years. He has come under heavy scrutiny after declining to pay back a £5 million loan which was paid to one of his companies in June 2021.