Botafogo have initiated legal proceedings against Olympique Lyonnais, seeking repayment of more than €125.5 million linked to a series of loans provided to the French club, according to a statement issued by the Brazilian side.

The Rio de Janeiro club said the funds, totalling over 745 million Brazilian reais, were transferred as part of a shared management structure within Eagle Football Group following Lyon’s acquisition in 2022.

Botafogo said Lyon’s current leadership had terminated the agreement and declined to repay the outstanding balance.

“Despite having benefited from the resources received, the French club failed to fulfill its obligations, refusing to pay the debt,” the club said.

Eagle Football structure under pressure

The dispute has affected Botafogo’s financial position, with the club indicating it has faced restrictions linked to its ability to meet obligations, including a transfer ban imposed by FIFA.

Lyon are also reported to have an outstanding €12m obligation to Belgian club RWDM Brussels, while Eagle Football Holdings Bidco, controlled by John Textor, has entered receivership under restructuring firm Cork Gully as it seeks potential buyers for its assets.

 

Chelsea lead agent fee table as Premier League bill hits £460m

Chelsea FC were the highest spenders on agents’ fees for a third consecutive year as total payments across the Premier League reached a record £460.3 million in 2025/26, according to figures published by the The Football Association.

Clubs collectively increased their spending by 12 per cent year-on-year, with Chelsea accounting for £65.1 million. The club had also led agent payments in the previous two seasons, recording £60.4 million in 2024/25 and £75.1 million in 2023/24.

The figures were released on the same day Chelsea confirmed a £262.4 million loss for the last financial year, the largest reported by a Premier League club.

A breakdown of spending shows Aston Villa as the second-highest payer at £38.4 million, followed by Manchester City (£37.4 million), Liverpool (£33.8 million), Arsenal (£32.1 million) and Manchester United (£31.7 million).

Total of £500 million

Across England’s top four men’s divisions, total payments to intermediaries exceeded £500 million for the first time.

In the women’s game, agent fees across the top two tiers remained substantially lower, although the FA reported that spending in those leagues nearly doubled compared with the previous year.

 

FIGC president Gabriele Gravina resigns after Italy World Cup failure

Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina has resigned following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 men’s World Cup, the federation confirmed.

Gravina stepped down two days after Italy were beaten on penalties by Bosnia and Herzegovina in their qualification play-off final, a result that leaves the national team absent from a third consecutive World Cup.

Italy’s sports minister Andrea Abodi said the situation required structural change, stating: “It’s evident to everyone that Italian soccer needs to be overhauled … and that process needs to start with new leadership at the FIGC.”

Former captain Gianluigi Buffon also resigned from his role as head of delegation, a position he had held since August 2023, the federation said.

New FIGC leadership to be elected in June

The FIGC said a new president will be elected on June 22, while no update was provided on the future of head coach Gennaro Gattuso.

Gravina had led the federation since 2018 and remained in post after previous tournament setbacks, including Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and a last-16 exit at Euro 2024.

 

Southampton report £53.9m loss for 2024/25 financial year

Southampton FC have reported a pre-tax loss of £53.9 million for the financial year ending June 2025, according to the club’s published accounts.

The result follows a pre-tax profit of £17.3 million in 2023/24, when the club competed in the Championship, and an £87 million loss in 2022/23. The latest figures cover a season in which Southampton returned to the Premier League after securing promotion via the play-offs in 2024.

Turnover increased to £158.4 million from £84.8 million the previous year, reflecting higher broadcasting and commercial income linked to top-flight participation.

Cost control

Player wages rose to £83.2 million from £58.8 million, although this represented a smaller share of revenue at 52.5 per cent compared with 68 per cent in 2023/24.

Cost controls reduced total staff wages as a proportion of turnover from 93.5 per cent to 73.2 per cent, according to the accounts.

Chelsea FC have reported a pre-tax loss of £262.4 million for the financial year ending 30 June 2025, the highest recorded in Premier League history.

The loss marks a reversal from the previous year, when Chelsea recorded a £128.4 million profit. That outcome was largely driven by the sale of the women’s team to a subsidiary company for close to £200 million.

The club attributed the latest losses in part to increased operating costs during the 2024/25 period compared with the previous year. Chelsea also reported revenue of £490.9 million, their second-highest on record, including income linked to participation in the Club World Cup.

Compliance under PSR rules

Chelsea are understood to be compliant with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) for the three-year period ending 2024/25. The regulations permit losses of up to £105 million over three years, with certain costs excluded from calculations.

Those exclusions include spending on infrastructure, youth development and women’s football, which can be added back under the rules.

UEFA presses FIFA over World Cup prize money distribution

UEFA are lobbying FIFA to increase prize money and financial support for federations competing at this summer’s World Cup in North America.

According to The Athletic, the move follows requests from several European member associations, who have asked UEFA to raise concerns over tournament finances with FIFA.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said the competition is expected to generate more than $11 billion in revenue, while the organisation has committed to redistributing at least 90 per cent of its World Cup cycle budget into football globally.

Financial concerns among federations

European associations are concerned that rising operational costs linked to participation could reduce or eliminate financial returns from the tournament, despite the scale of FIFA’s projected revenues.

FIFA is understood to be aware of the concerns and is working on potential solutions with participating federations, with the issue set to be discussed at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver at the end of May.

Abramovich plans foundation to challenge UK stance on Chelsea sale funds

Roman Abramovich is seeking to establish a charitable foundation in a move that could challenge the UK government’s position on the frozen £2.35 billion proceeds from his sale of Chelsea.

According to The Athletic, the proposed entity would distribute funds to global humanitarian causes rather than restrict spending to Ukraine, which remains a condition set by the UK authorities.

The foundation, expected to be overseen by former UNICEF executive Mike Penrose, is in the process of being registered with the Charity Commission. A spokesperson for Abramovich said: “Mr Abramovich maintains his intention to donate funds to humanitarian causes once the relevant legal obstacles are resolved.”

The UK government has maintained that the funds will remain frozen unless Abramovich agrees they are used solely for Ukraine, following Russia’s invasion in February 2022 and the subsequent sanctions imposed on the Russian businessman.

Sale dispute continues

Abramovich was forced to sell Chelsea in May 2022, when the consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital acquired the club, but the proceeds have not been released amid the ongoing dispute over their allocation.

In December, Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Abramovich of potential legal action if he does not accept the government’s conditions, while his representatives continue to dispute that such restrictions formed part of the original agreement.

Aston Villa post £17 million profit as revenue rises 37 per cent

Aston Villa FC reported a profit after tax of £17 million for the 2024/25 financial year, as revenue increased 37 per cent following participation in the UEFA Champions League.

The club generated £378.1 million in revenue, with growth largely driven by reaching the quarter-finals of the competition, according to its financial statement.

Commercial revenue rose 69 per cent to £70 million, while sponsorship income increased 31 per cent to £28.6 million.

Ownership restructuring

During the year, NSWE Sports Limited, part of the club’s ownership group, transferred its investment in the women’s team and a subsidiary holding rights to The Warehouse, a multi-use entertainment venue at Villa Park, to NSWE Holding Limited to enable external investment without direct involvement in the men’s team.

Aston Villa continued to operate within the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules.

Newcastle United’s 2024/25 accounts show the club sold St James’ Park and adjacent assets to a company controlled by their own shareholders, contributing to a pre-tax profit of £34.7 million.

The transactions generated £176.2 million in proceeds and an accounting gain of £133.1 million, according to the club’s financial results. Without these intragroup sales, Newcastle would have reported a £98.4 million loss for the period.

The purchasing entity, PZ Newco Holdings Limited, is owned by the same parent company as Newcastle, which is majority-owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Late-year sale

The stadium structure was sold as leasehold improvements for £172.1 million shortly before the financial year end, while a separate subsidiary holding land near the ground was also transferred for £4.1 million.

The land at Strawberry Place remains used by club-linked operations, including a fan park, allowing related income to be included in financial submissions to governing bodies. Following the transactions, the stadium is no longer held directly by the club but sits within a separate entity under the same ownership.

Tottenham Hotspur report £94.7 million net loss on £565.3 million revenue

Tottenham Hotspur have reported a net loss of £94.7 million for the 2024/25 financial year, despite revenues rising seven per cent to £565.3 million, according to the club’s latest accounts.

The club said the total revenue increase wad supported by higher matchday and commercial income, as well as prize money from their Europa League win. However, those gains were offset by increased operating costs and lower media income following a 17th-place finish in the Premier League.

The accounts also show a pre-tax loss of £120.6 million, reflecting the impact of a higher wage bill and the cost of hosting additional fixtures during the season. Tottenham’s net debt rose to £831.2 million as of 30 June 2025, an increase of nearly £60 million compared with the previous year, although the club said most borrowings remain on fixed interest rates at just above three per cent.

Risks and uncertainties highlighted

The club stated in the report: “The Board of Directors continually monitors the Group’s exposure to a range of risks and uncertainties… including the success of the First Team and our level of spending thereon.”

Managerial changes during the period included the departures of Ange Postecoglou and Thomas Frank, while interim coach Igor Tudor also left. The club have just appointed Roberto De Zerbi as they seek to stabilise results.

Milan city council offices raided over San Siro stadium sale probe

Italian financial police have raided offices at Milan’s city council as part of an investigation into the sale of the San Siro stadium to AC Milan and Inter Milan.

Authorities seized computers and mobile phones during the operation, while more than 10 individuals have been placed under investigation on suspicion of bid-rigging, according to Calcio Finanza. The two clubs are not under investigation.

The council agreed last year to sell the stadium, which is owned by the municipality, to the two clubs for close to €200 million.

Investigation follows complaints

AC Milan and Inter Milan secured approval for a redevelopment project valued at around €1.5 billion after negotiations with local authorities and heritage bodies. The plan includes partial demolition of the existing structure and construction of a new stadium nearby.

Opposition groups and some councillors have argued the agreed sale price, including surrounding land, undervalued the asset.

Everton cut losses to £8.6 million after selling women’s team and stadium to owners

Everton have reduced their annual losses to £8.6 million after selling their women’s team and Goodison Park to their parent company, according to the club’s latest accounts.

The transactions generated a combined profit of £49.2 million and relate to deals with Roundhouse Capital Holdings Ltd, the investment vehicle used by the Friedkin Group when acquiring the club in December 2024.

The accounts show losses fell from £53.2 million in the previous year, with Everton stating the sales contributed to improved financial results while maintaining compliance with Premier League profitability and sustainability rules.

Separation of women’s team and stadium assets

Everton said the sale of the women’s team allows it to operate as a separate commercial entity, which the club believes could support future investment opportunities.

The accounts also confirm record revenues of £196.7 million for the final season at Goodison Park, with the club forecasting a 25 per cent increase to around £250 million in their first season at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia charged with tax evasion

Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), has been formally charged with tax evasion following a court ruling made public. The decision also targets several other senior officials at the governing body.

The charges follow a criminal complaint filed by Argentina’s tax authorities, which allege that the AFA and its executives failed to pay taxes and social security contributions. The alleged damage is estimated at 19 billion pesos, equivalent to around €11.8 million.

Four additional AFA officials have been charged alongside Tapia, including treasurer Pablo Toviggino. According to the ruling, 350 million pesos (€21,900) have been frozen from the assets of Tapia and Toviggino as part of the investigation.

AFA charged as legal entity

The case also includes the AFA as a legal entity, with all five officials having appeared before the presiding judge on 12 March. Other individuals named include Víctor Blanco Rodríguez, Cristian Ariel Malaspina and Gustavo Roberto Lorenzo.

Separately, Tapia and the AFA are also under investigation over financial dealings with two companies, in cases examining alleged money laundering and the diversion of funds to shell companies.

Everton and Fulham are in advanced talks to replace their current betting sponsors with front-of-shirt agreements involving CMC Markets, worth about £50 million over three years, according to Sky News.

The two Premier League clubs are seeking new commercial partners ahead of a voluntary league ban on gambling sponsorships, with CMC emerging as a leading candidate. CMC Markets is a London-listed financial services company led by Lord Cruddas, a former treasurer of the Conservative Party.

One industry source told Sky News that discussions were ongoing and other brands remained interested in both clubs.

11 clubs need replacements

The negotiations come as clubs prepare for the removal of betting companies from front-of-shirt positions, following growing regulatory and political scrutiny of gambling advertising in English football.

Everton and Fulham are currently sponsored by betting operators, placing them among 11 clubs needing replacements as the ban takes effect for the 2026/27 season.
 

Newly elected Paris mayor seeks summer agreement on Parc des Princes sale

Newly elected Paris mayor Emmanuel Grégoire has said he will reopen talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a potential sale of the Parc des Princes, aiming to reach an agreement before the end of the summer.

As reported by French media, Grégoire said he plans to convene an exceptional Paris Council meeting in mid-April to secure a mandate to negotiate, stressing that any decision would ultimately rest with the council rather than the mayor alone.

He added: “I want to very quickly re-engage discussions… I will refer the matter to the Council of Paris,” while reiterating his personal support for a sale and stating that public funds should not be used to finance a professional football stadium.

Shift in stance

Negotiations had previously stalled under former mayor Anne Hidalgo, who opposed the sale of the stadium to the club. This had led Paris Saint-Germain to consider moving 15 kilometres away from Paris to build a new €1 billion 90,000-capacity stadium.

However, the new administration has indicated a change in approach, with Grégoire seeking to re-establish contact with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi as discussions resume over the future ownership of the venue.
 

Cardiff lose €120 million damages claim against Nantes in Sala case

Cardiff City have lost their €120 million damages claim against Nantes over the death of Emiliano Sala, following a ruling by the Nantes Commercial Court on Monday. The League One club had sought compensation linked to alleged financial losses after their relegation from the Premier League in 2019.

The Welsh club argued that Sala’s absence following his death in January 2019 contributed to their relegation, resulting in lost earnings and a reduced club valuation. The court dismissed the claim in full and instead ordered Cardiff to pay Nantes €300,000 in damages along with €180,000 in legal costs.

Legal arguments focused on the organisation of the flight that ended in the fatal crash over the English Channel. Cardiff alleged the journey had been arranged on behalf of Nantes by banned agent Willie McKay, a claim the French club denied, maintaining they dealt only with his son Mark McKay during the transfer.

Ongoing legal fallout

Sala, 28, died when the aircraft carrying him to Cardiff crashed on January 21, 2019. The incident occurred days after the striker had completed a €17 million transfer from Nantes.

In 2022, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that Sala’s transfer had been finalised at the time of his death. The following year, FIFA ordered Cardiff to pay just over €11 million of the transfer fee to Nantes.
 

CAF general secretary steps down as AFCON final fallout continues

Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) general secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba has resigned amid ongoing fallout from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Mosengo-Omba stepped down after five years in the role, with CAF confirming competitions director Samson Adamu will take over on an interim basis while a replacement is appointed.

The resignation follows a dispute over the AFCON final in which Senegal were stripped of their title after walking off during a stoppage-time penalty decision against hosts Morocco. Senegal have appealed the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

AFCON changes

According to The Guardian, Mosengo-Omba’s tenure had also been marked by scrutiny over alleged financial irregularities, although Swiss prosecutors declined to pursue charges, and internal complaints regarding workplace culture, which he denied.

Separately, CAF president Patrice Motsepe announced that AFCON will expand from 24 to 28 teams, without detailing the format or timeline. CAF also plans to move the tournament to a four-year cycle after 2027 and introduce a Nations League-style competition from 2029.

John Textor has lost control of his Eagle Football multi-club group after its UK-based holding company was placed into administration by its main creditor, Ares Capital Corporation.

Administrators from London insolvency firm Cork Gully have taken control of Eagle Football Holdings Bidco and will begin seeking buyers for the group’s majority stakes in Botafogo, Lyon and RWDM Brussels.

In a press release announcing their appointment, Cork Gully said Ares had taken this step due to “events of default under its financial agreements” with Eagle, including repeated failures to file accounts and other financial statements on time.

Gravely offended

Bidco is the only entity within the Eagle structure under administration, meaning the clubs themselves are not directly affected and will continue to operate as normal while the sale process is prepared.

Eagle Football objected the move, describing Ares’ decision as “unilateral and predatory” and disputing the basis for the defaults.

The company said it would work with the administrators while seeking to regain control, while Ares said it would defend its position against what it described as “highly misleading and inaccurate statements”.

 

Friedkin Group claim alternative to blind trust for dual European entry

The Friedkin Group believe they have a structure in place that would allow both Everton and AS Roma to compete in the same European competition without using a blind trust, according to The Times.

UEFA regulations prohibit clubs under the same ownership or control from participating in the same competition. The group did not implement a blind trust for either club before UEFA's March 1 deadline.

Instead, insiders cited by The Times said the owners have a “structural solution” they believe would meet UEFA’s test on decisive influence between clubs.

Review required

Details of the structure have not been disclosed, and any arrangement would need to be assessed by UEFA's Club Financial Control Body if both clubs qualify for the same competition.

If the body determines the structure does not comply with regulations, one of the clubs would be removed, with UEFA rules stating the lower-placed team in their domestic league would lose its place.

 

Leicester City report £71.1m loss in Premier League relegation season

Leicester City have reported a pre-tax loss of £71.1 million for the 2024/25 season, covering their return to the Premier League, according to the club’s financial results.

Turnover increased to £186.5 million from £105.4 million. However, the club's wage bill rose to £152.9 million from £107.2 million, while profit from player sales fell to £7.3 million from £71.8 million, contributing to the overall loss.

The latest accounts take the club’s total losses over a three-year period spanning promotion and relegation cycles to more than £180 million.

Leicester's chief executive Kevin Davies says "improving" the club's financial position "remains a priority and will continue to shape the decisions we take as a club".

Points deduction

The accounts follow a six-point deduction imposed this season for previous overspending, with the scale of recent losses likely to attract further scrutiny from regulators.

Leicester have also experienced two relegations in three seasons and are currently competing in the Championship, where they are attempting to avoid a further drop into League One.

 

Botafogo SAF to share financial documents after fraud allegations

Botafogo’s SAF said on Friday it will open its offices to the social club to present financial documents following allegations linked to the club’s sale agreement.

The move comes after the social club raised concerns over a lack of transparency and possible non-compliance with clauses tied to John Textor’s acquisition. Globo reported that three formal requests had been sent seeking access to financial records and transaction details.

The SAF said a meeting has been scheduled for next week to provide full documentation. In a statement, it said the process was intended to ensure “transparency, good faith and collaborative partnership”.

Dispute over investment structure

Under the shareholders’ agreement, the social club holds a 10 per cent stake and has oversight responsibilities. According to Globo, internal discussions have focused on whether the agreed R$400 million investment was fully executed, with part of the funds allegedly transferred to Olympique Lyonnais, also linked to Textor’s ownership group.

Some members of the social club argue the transaction structure undermined the intended investment in Botafogo. The SAF said the required contribution had been deposited in advance and that funds transferred from Lyon exceeded amounts received by the Brazilian club.

 

Sixth Street near agreement for 80 per cent Sunderland Women stake

Sixth Street are close to finalising a deal to acquire an 80 per cent stake in Sunderland Women, according to Bloomberg.

The report said the move is part of Sixth Street’s wider strategy to expand its sports investments. The firm has previously backed a number of sports organisations, including football clubs, as it builds its portfolio.

A person familiar with the situation told Bloomberg the deal is nearing completion, although terms have not been disclosed and the agreement has not yet been signed.

Growing investor interest

Sunderland Women operate within the wider Sunderland AFC structure and compete in the English women’s football pyramid. The team have developed a following and have recorded competitive results in recent seasons.

The potential acquisition reflects ongoing investor interest in women’s football, with private capital continuing to target the sport’s commercial growth and audience expansion.

Everton are exploring a potential legal challenge against the Premier League over its decision not to impose sporting sanctions on Chelsea for historical financial breaches, according to The Guardian.

The Merseyside club are preparing to request a formal explanation from the league after Chelsea were fined £10.75 million and handed a suspended transfer ban for undisclosed payments made between 2011 and 2018.

Everton believe the absence of a points deduction contrasts with their own case, having been penalised eight points during the 2023/24 season for breaches of profitability and sustainability regulations. One source cited by The Guardian said the differing approaches were “difficult to reconcile”.

Clubs question consistency

Nottingham Forest are also understood to be dissatisfied after receiving a four-point deduction for a similar regulatory breach as Everton, and have held discussions with the Liverpool club about a possible joint response.

Concerns have reportedly been raised among clubs that the handling of Chelsea’s case may set a precedent, particularly with a separate case involving 115 financial charges against Manchester City still awaiting resolution.
 

Nottingham Forest report £71 million loss for 2024/25

Nottingham Forest have reported a loss of £71.1 million for the financial year ending 30 June 2025, according to accounts filed with Companies House.

The figure compares to a £10.1 million profit in the previous year and follows an operating loss of £57.1 million, an improvement on the £75.3 million loss recorded in 2024.

Forest generated record revenues of £221.7 million during the period, up from £189.6 million the previous year, which the club attributed to Premier League merit payments and commercial growth of almost £10 million.

Squad investment

Wages increased slightly by £1.4 million to £168.3 million, while amortisation grew by almost 12 per cent to £68.9 million.

In the accounts, the club said: “The club’s recruitment saw further investment by the ownership to ensure the club were able to attract elite talent to give the team the best opportunity to compete in the Premier League.”
 

Nasser Al-Khelaifi targeted by report over Ligue 1 rights conflict of interest

Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been reported to prosecutors by Anticor, a French anti-corruption association, over alleged illegal conflict of interest linked to the 2024 Ligue 1 domestic television rights process, according to L’Équipe.

The organisation has referred the matter to the Paris public prosecutor, alleging that the Paris Saint-Germain president may have attempted to influence decisions during negotiations in which beIN Media Group, which he also leads, was involved.

Anticor claims Al-Khelaifi sought to sway the Ligue de Football Professionnel’s board in favour of beIN Sports during the tender process.

Entourage dismisses allegation

His entourage rejected the allegation, describing the complaint as “absurd” and stating: “These are the clubs, the league representatives and even political figures who put pressure on beIN… not the other way around.”

Reports have previously highlighted tensions during the rights process, including a 2024 meeting between Ligue 1 club executives at which Al-Khelaifi was challenged by several counterparts over a perceived conflict of interest.
 

Record sales drive Bournemouth £14.9 million pre-tax profit

AFC Bournemouth have reported a pre-tax profit of £14.9 million for the year ending 30 June 2025, compared to a pre-tax loss of £66.3 million in the previous year.

The improvement was primarily driven by a £91 million profit on player sales. Amortisation increased by 12 per cent to £69.1 million, with spending on player additions amounting to £104.3 million. Wages increased by £22 million to £158.4 million.

The club recorded an operating loss of £62.7 million, up from a £56 million operating loss in 2023/24.

Revenue growth

Total revenue grew by 17 per cent to almost £200 million. This was mainly driven by increases in broadcasting and commercial revenue of £12.4 million and £8.8 million.

Matchday revenue increased slightly, while other income grew by £9 million, supported by player loan income.
 

LFP confirm Paris Saint-Germain v Lens match postponement despite objections

The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has confirmed the postponement of Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 fixture against Lens despite objections raised by Lens earlier this week.

The match, originally scheduled for April 11, has been moved to May 13 after PSG requested a free weekend between their Champions League quarter-final ties against Liverpool. The LFP approved the change, citing its policy of supporting French clubs competing in European competitions.

Lens had criticised the proposal on Tuesday, arguing it undermines the integrity of the domestic competition.

The club said: “It now appears that a concerning sentiment is beginning to take hold… that the French championship is gradually being reduced to an adjustment variable depending on the European commitments of certain clubs.”

Responses to decision

The LFP said the decision aligns with its broader strategy to protect France’s UEFA coefficient ranking. PSG were also granted a similar schedule adjustment in the previous round.

In a statement, Lens said they disagreed with the decision by the LFP board but acknowledged it responsibly. Lens president Joseph Oughourlian added in a social media post: “As Jean de La Fontaine said, might makes right.”

John Textor and Brazilian club Botafogo have announced plans to take legal action against Olympique Lyon to recover what they describe as unpaid sums.

In a statement, Botafogo said it would initiate proceedings against Lyon, as well as Eagle Football Holdings, the ownership group previously led by Textor. The club said the action relates to financial obligations it claims remain outstanding.

The dispute centres on alleged transfers involving Botafogo players in July 2024. Botafogo said it is seeking to “recuperate the amounts owed” through the courts.

Transfer dispute

The case refers to transactions involving players including Luiz Henrique and Igor Jesus, who were initially expected to join Lyon. However, both players ultimately moved to other clubs, with the transfers not registered by the French Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP).

Textor, who oversaw Lyon between May 2023 and June 2025, has also argued that Botafogo contributed financially to cover losses at the French club. The legal proceedings are expected to focus on the financial flows between the clubs and the validity of the disputed transactions.

CAS confirm Senegal appeal against AFCON title decision

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) have confirmed they will hear an appeal from Senegal seeking to overturn the decision to strip them of their Africa Cup of Nations title.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled on 17 March that Morocco were to be awarded the title, two months after the final, following Senegal’s withdrawal from the pitch during the match.

CAF declared Morocco 3-0 winners of the final played on 18 January, ending a 49-year wait for their second continental title. CAS director general Matthieu Reeb said: “CAS is perfectly equipped to resolve this type of dispute… we will ensure that arbitration proceedings are conducted as swiftly as possible.”

Arbitration process under way

Senegal’s appeal aims to annul CAF’s ruling and reinstate their original victory, with the case now moving into formal arbitration procedures under CAS oversight.

Senegal have been given 20 days to submit their legal arguments, while CAF will have a further 20 days to file their defence before an arbitral panel reviews the case.

Rangers plan £16m share issue to fund squad investment

Rangers are planning to raise £16 million through a new share issue to fund investment in the men’s first team, according to a club statement.

Chairman Andrew Cavenagh said the offering will be backed by his consortium and existing shareholders, with proceeds allocated towards player acquisitions and wider club requirements.

In a letter to supporters, Cavenagh said the consortium’s total investment since taking control in summer 2025 has reached £36 million, outlining the club’s continued reliance on shareholder funding to support football operations.

The share issue will be made available to existing investors, with details of the offer and required approvals to be circulated, including a minimum subscription threshold for participation.

No plan to replace sporting director

Cavenagh also said Rangers will not replace former sporting director Kevin Thelwell, who left alongside former chief executive Patrick Stewart in November: “We do not plan to hire a sporting director. The executive team is committed to being smaller, nimbler, and more entrepreneurial.”

Season ticket prices for adults will increase by 6.5 per cent, with the club citing rising operating costs including wages, agent fees and matchday expenses, and stating that increased revenue is required to maintain spending on the squad.

FA resists Manchester United push for new Old Trafford as 2035 Women's World Cup final venue

The English Football Association is resisting efforts by Manchester United to have a rebuilt Old Trafford host the 2035 Women’s World Cup final, maintaining its preference for Wembley Stadium.

According to The Guardian, the FA named Wembley as the proposed final venue in its bid submission to FIFA last November and does not intend to revise that position, even if United complete a new 100,000-seat stadium in time.

The final decision rests with FIFA, but it would be unusual for the governing body to override the host association’s preference. The FA is leading a joint bid from the home nations to stage the tournament.

United targets 2035 final

Collette Roche, leading Manchester United’s stadium development, said: "if we could pull that off, that would be incredible,” referencing ambitions also backed by Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

“We’ve not named a date for opening, but we are on track within those timescales,” she said.

Real Madrid to convert Bernabéu pitch into tennis courts for Madrid Open

Real Madrid are preparing to transform the pitch at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium into tennis courts during the upcoming Madrid Open, according to Marca.

The stadium will be used as a training facility for players between 23 and 30 April, during the tournament, which begins on 20 April.

The initiative takes advantage of the stadium’s retractable pitch system, installed as part of the recent redevelopment completed in 2023. The surface can be removed and stored underground, allowing alternative sporting infrastructure to be built on top.

Madrid are scheduled to play away matches during this period, including league fixtures against Real Betis, Espanyol and Barcelona, enabling the venue to be repurposed without disrupting fixtures.

Multi-use strategy

The redevelopment of the Bernabéu was designed to expand non-football revenues by hosting external events. The venue has already staged concerts and an NFL game since reopening.

Club president Florentino Pérez has previously expressed interest in hosting tennis events at the stadium.

RC Lens have criticised Paris Saint-Germain’s proposal to postpone their Ligue 1 meeting on 11 April, saying the move would disadvantage them as both clubs contest the title.

The second-placed club said PSG’s request, made to allow more preparation time for their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool, would disrupt their schedule and create an uneven competitive balance.

In a statement, Lens said a rearrangement would leave them facing a 15-day gap followed by a run of matches every three days, adding it would force “the team with the tenth highest budget to adapt to the demands of the most powerful”.

Scheduling dispute

PSG have asked the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) to reschedule the fixture, arguing that progress in European competitions benefits French football through improved Uefa coefficient rankings and potential additional European places.

Lens said the request reflected a wider concern that domestic competition risks being adjusted to suit clubs involved in Europe, describing such an approach as inconsistent with sporting fairness.

Manchester United stadium executive questions 2030/31 opening timeline

Manchester United’s stadium development chief has indicated the club are unlikely to open their proposed new ground before the start of the 2030/31 season.

Collette Roche, the club’s CEO of stadium development, said preparatory work has yet to be completed and could delay the start of construction. United had previously outlined a potential five-year build period when unveiling plans for the 100,000-capacity project in 2025.

Speaking on the club’s ‘Inside Carrington’ podcast, Roche said the timeline depends on when construction begins, adding: “It does take one or two years to get ready for construction … we’ve not named a date for opening.”

Land and financing remain unresolved

The project requires the acquisition of land to the west of Old Trafford, currently occupied by a rail freight terminal, with negotiations ongoing between the club and existing landowners.

United are also yet to finalise financing for the development, which is expected to cost around £2 billion. The club have said the stadium itself will not be publicly funded, while discussions with potential investors remain ongoing.

UEFA rejects English clubs’ request to expand Champions League squads

UEFA has rejected requests from English clubs to increase Champions League squad sizes from 25 players to 28, following opposition from Spanish counterparts.

The proposal was discussed at a meeting of UEFA’s club competitions committee but was not advanced to the executive committee, which is due to meet before the Europa League final in Istanbul on 20 May.

According to The Guardian, the committee failed to reach agreement, with representatives from Atlético Madrid, Sevilla and Real Sociedad opposing the change. Concerns were raised that larger squads would allow Premier League clubs to strengthen further due to greater financial resources.

Expanded format increases match load

Squad sizes have remained unchanged for nearly two decades, but some Premier League clubs argued for an increase to reflect the expanded competition format and to help manage player workload and injuries.

The Champions League now features a 36-team league phase, increasing the number of matches played, including additional fixtures for clubs that do not finish in the top eight and must compete in a January play-off round.

Czech FA probe leads to police investigation into 47 match-fixing cases

Czech Republic police have opened a criminal investigation after the national football association identified 47 suspected cases of bribery and match-fixing.

The Football Association of the Czech Republic (FACR) said disciplinary proceedings had been launched against clubs, officials, referees and players, with most individuals provisionally suspended from competitive activity.

Chief state prosecutor Radim Dragoun said authorities were conducting searches and questioning individuals across multiple locations, adding the case concerns alleged “corruption and fraudulent conduct in connection with betting on sports matches”.

Investigation expands across multiple jurisdictions

Dragoun said proceedings are taking place both within the country and abroad, with several suspects detained as part of the operation.

FACR Ethics Commission chairman Martin Holub said: “The initiation of these disciplinary proceedings … was only possible thanks to the excellent internal work of Integrity Officer Kamil Javurek and the above-standard cooperation with the Police of the Czech Republic,” while sports minister Boris Stastny said UEFA’s anti match-fixing unit is involved.

Around 2 million people in France are watching Ligue 1 matches through illegal streams, according to figures presented by the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) on Monday.

The data, based on an Ipsos study commissioned by the LFP and LFP Media, indicate that 35 per cent of the country’s 9.9 million football fans regularly consume pirated football content. Among those, 59 per cent watch Ligue 1 matches illegally, making it the most pirated competition domestically, as reported by L’Equipe.

Douglas Lowenstein, legal director at LFP Media, said the issue represents “a lack of revenue amounting to hundreds of millions of euros for Ligue 1+”, adding that roughly one in five fans refuse to pay for football broadcasts.

Enforcement efforts

French authorities have recently taken action against piracy providers and users. The public prosecutor in French city Arras sanctioned several illegal service providers as well as around 20 individual users last week.

Those users received fines ranging from €300 to €400, targeting end consumers rather than distributors.
 

Cagliari owner links majority sale to stadium project

Cagliari could undergo a change in control before the end of May, with president Tommaso Giulini stating that new investors may take a majority stake if plans for a new stadium progress.

The club’s current structure sees Fluorsid, controlled by the Giulini family, holding around 55 per cent, while Cagliari 1920 LP, led by Maurizio Fiori and backed by international partners, owns approximately 45 per cent after initially acquiring a 20 per cent minority stake in November.

Speaking on Monday, Giulini said: “The ownership situation is very simple… if the stadium project moves forward, they could move into a majority”, confirming that the investors’ stake could increase depending on the development.

Phased deal

As reported by Calcio e Finanza, documents from a 10 February shareholders’ meeting outline a structure allowing Cagliari 1920 LP to rise to between 80 and 90 per cent by 31 May 2026.

The process includes an initial move to 50 per cent and governance changes, followed by a potential “Third Closing” in which shares are transferred from Fluorsid, enabling the investors to secure control if completed within the deadline.
 

Borussia Dortmund appoint Ole Book as new sporting director

Borussia Dortmund have appointed Ole Book as their new sporting director, with the 40-year-old set to begin his role on Wednesday. The Bundesliga club confirmed the appointment on Monday, with Book signing a contract until 2029.

He joins from 2. Bundesliga side SV Elversberg, where he had been serving as sporting director and later sporting board member.

Sport managing director Lars Ricken said Book had long been identified as the preferred candidate. “With Ole Book we have been able to bring our desired candidate for the position of sporting director to Borussia Dortmund,” he said, citing his work in squad building and recruitment.

Book will take over following the club’s decision to part ways with Sebastian Kehl, a move confirmed on Sunday after internal discussions.

Transition in Elversberg

At Elversberg, Book oversaw the club’s rise from the regional leagues to the 2. Bundesliga and played a central role in recruitment strategy.

David Blacha will assume responsibility for sporting matters at Elversberg on an interim basis. The 35-year-old has been working in the club’s scouting and squad planning structure and is expected to oversee ongoing preparations in the short term.
 

River Plate secure $100 million financing for stadium redevelopment project

River Plate have secured approval for up to $100 million in international financing to fund infrastructure projects and the expansion of the Estadio Mâs Monumental, the club have announced.

The financing will be structured with BID Invest and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), which will each contribute equal shares. The agreement has a 10-year term, including a three-year grace period before repayments begin.

River Plate said the funds will support expansion works at the stadium, as well as developments at the River Plate Institute and the Casa River youth residence.

Expansion plans

The club first outlined plans in January to expand the stadium to a capacity of 101,000, from around 85,000, with the project expected to take three years and cost more than $100 million.

River Plate said the redevelopment will be funded through a combination of long-term debt and increased revenues generated by the upgraded venue, including ticketing, concerts and a proposed naming rights agreement beyond its current deal, which runs until 2029.

The Premier League are set to amend their new squad cost ratio rules before their introduction next season, allowing clubs greater flexibility in transfer spending.

Under the rules approved in November, clubs will be limited to spending 85 per cent of their revenue on player wages, transfers and agent fees. Breaches would trigger a financial levy redistributed to other clubs, while spending at 115 per cent of revenue would result in a six-point deduction.

According to The Guardian, clubs have now backed an amendment enabling unused spending capacity to be carried forward. Teams that remain below the 85 per cent threshold for two consecutive seasons would be permitted to roll over up to 10 per cent into a third year without incurring a penalty.

Clubs support rollover mechanism

The proposal was put forward by Brighton at a shareholders’ meeting before Christmas, with a working group subsequently formed to review the rules. The Premier League briefed clubs on its findings this week, and no opposition to the amendment was raised.

The revised mechanism, described by the league as a levy offset, is expected to be approved by a formal vote before the end of the season. The 10 per cent cap is intended to limit any competitive advantage for clubs also subject to UEFA’s 70 per cent squad cost ratio threshold.

 

Liverpool owner FSG abandon plans to acquire second football club

Liverpool’s owners Fenway Sports Group have shelved plans to acquire a second football club, abandoning efforts to establish a multi-club ownership model.

The US-based group had been exploring opportunities since 2024, when Michael Edwards returned as chief executive of football. Analysis was carried out on around 25 clubs, with a focus on markets in Spain, Portugal and France.

According to The Athletic, FSG examined potential deals involving Bordeaux, Malaga and Getafe, and also considered taking a minority stake of less than 30 per cent in Monaco in early 2025 alongside another investor group, but opted not to proceed with any transaction.

Multi-club strategy dropped

Senior sources cited said the plans have now been dropped, with no immediate intention to revisit the strategy despite earlier internal backing for expansion.

When Edwards rejoined the organisation, FSG president Mike Gordon told staff that acquiring another club had been identified as a route to strengthen operations.

 

FIFA projects over $14 billion revenue for 2027–2030 cycle

FIFA has projected revenues of more than $14 billion for the 2027–2030 financial cycle, following updated financial results for 2025.

The governing body reported revenue of $2.66 billion for 2025, exceeding its internal target by $225 million, equivalent to nine per cent. FIFA attributed the increase largely to the first expanded edition of its Club World Cup.

Revenue from that tournament reached $2.13 billion, six per cent above projections, supported primarily by a $1 billion global broadcast rights agreement with streaming platform DAZN.

Club World Cup drives revenue growth

Sponsorship revenue from the tournament totalled $669m, while hospitality and ticketing contributed $411 million.

Looking ahead, FIFA expects the men’s 2026 World Cup to further increase revenue. 93 per cent of FIFA's $13 billion target for the 2023–2026 cycle has already been secured, underpinning its forecast of record income in the following cycle.

 

Borussia Dortmund and sporting director Sebastian Kehl part ways

Borussia Dortmund have announced the immediate departure of sporting director Sebastian Kehl, ending his tenure in the role after nearly four years. The club confirmed the decision on Sunday, one day after their 3–2 home win against Hamburger SV.

Kehl, 46, had served as head of the licensed player department since 2018 before being promoted to sporting director in 2022. The club said the decision followed internal discussions about planned changes ahead of the summer.

Sport managing director Lars Ricken said in a club statement: “In a very open discussion … we came to the shared conclusion that summer would be the right time for changes.” He added that both parties agreed to bring the arrangement to an immediate end to allow for preparation.

Ahead of summer window

The announcement comes despite Kehl having remained in post after Ricken was appointed as Watzke’s successor in 2024. Kehl had been considered for that position but was ultimately overlooked.

Kehl, a former Dortmund captain, said the decision was mutual and described his long association with the club as a defining part of his career. He added that the groundwork for the club’s future had been laid and wished Dortmund success in their next phase.