Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur were informed of Manchester City’s guilty verdict before the other Premier League clubs, according to the Telegraph.

The four clubs were contacted before the league emailed the remaining 15 shareholders on 25 September. Those executives were required to sign non-disclosure agreements before viewing the decision.

At the time, Premier League clubs had no means of asking the independent commission whether compensation claims would form part of its judgment or any potential sanction.

Compensation claims

In September 2024, the four clubs each instructed legal counsel to notify City that they reserved the right to seek compensation if the club were found guilty.

The other Premier League shareholders, including Chelsea, did not issue similar notices. They are not thought to be prevented from bringing compensation claims, although the process may be more complicated.

Chelsea sporting director Laurence Stewart set to leave

Chelsea FC co-sporting director Laurence Stewart is set to leave the club, with his departure agreed, according multiple English media.

Stewart joined Chelsea as technical director after the Boehly-Clearlake takeover in 2022 and became co-sporting director alongside Paul Winstanley in February 2023.

Chelsea are not expected to appoint a direct replacement. Winstanley, co-director of recruitment Joe Shields and director of global recruitment Sam Jewell have absorbed Stewart’s responsibilities.

Open talks over Cobham upgrades

Chelsea have also held pre-application discussions with Elmbridge Borough Council over improvements to their Cobham training ground, the first known time the club have taken the plans to external stakeholders, according to BBC Sport.

The ownership group identified investment in facilities for the men’s, women’s and academy teams as a priority after the 2022 takeover. Former academy director Neil Bath helped secure land opposite the existing site before leaving in July 2024.

LFP to test market for replacement for Ligue 1+

The French Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) is preparing to test the market for a replacement for Ligue 1+ before the platform’s current distribution agreements expire.

LFP Media plans to launch a tender in early November for five seasons from 2027, L’Équipe reported. The league can do so because the agreements with Ligue 1+ distributors include a break clause that can be exercised next March.

The tender would give bidders the choice of acquiring exclusive Ligue 1 broadcast rights or becoming the exclusive distributor of Ligue 1+ until 2032.

Single package enabled by new law

The process would offer every Ligue 1 match in one package, following a change in French law in August that removed the requirement to split rights into separate lots.

LFP Media chief executive Olivier Bramly has met broadcasters and streaming platforms including Canal+, RMC Sport, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Apple since July. He told the league’s board on Tuesday that those discussions had produced interest in the new structure.

AFC president softens stance on Infantino and backs internal FIFA reform review

Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa has proposed an internal FIFA working group to review the organisation’s governance, after previously joining UEFA and Concacaf in calling for an independent external review, according to The Athletic.

The Asian Football Confederation president, who is also a FIFA vice-president, told Gianni Infantino that the confederations and FIFA should consider whether existing governance arrangements can be strengthened.

Salman said the group should examine whether FIFA’s bodies have clear enough responsibilities and effective checks and balances, rather than pursue a “wholesale redesign” of its governance structure.

Ramon Vega enters FIFA presidential race

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Switzerland defender Ramon Vega has confirmed that he will stand in next year’s FIFA presidential election, becoming the first candidate to publicly challenge Infantino.

Vega, 55, said he would seek the support of FIFA’s member associations after failing to secure the five nominations required to enter the 2019 election.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert given suspended ban over Spygate

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert can remain in his role after an FA independent regulatory commission imposed a six-week ban from football, suspended until the end of next season.

The 33-year-old has also been fined £28,000 and reprimanded over his role in the Spygate scandal. The FA had sought a three-month ban, but the commission cited Eckert’s “considerable mitigation”, including his “genuine contrition”.

In a statement, Southampton welcomed the decision, while owner Dragan Solak said the club had already suffered enough. He added that the suspended sentence would allow Eckert to continue in his role.

FA charge followed EFL sanctions

Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-offs in May and given a four-point deduction this season after admitting spying on Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough training sessions before their play-off semi-final.

An EFL independent disciplinary commission found that the surveillance was authorised by Eckert and described it as a “contrived and determined plan from the top down”.

The FA has yet to confirm whether it will appeal the latest ruling.

Manchester City will argue in their appeal that funds underpinning key sponsorship agreements came from the Abu Dhabi government rather than the club’s owner, according to The Times.

The independent commission found City had artificially inflated revenue through sponsorship agreements secretly funded by Abu Dhabi United Group, the club’s parent company. It described the arrangements as “sham” contracts, a characterisation City are also expected to challenge.

City are expected to argue that the money received by Etihad Airways came directly from the Abu Dhabi government. The airline is government-owned, while state-owned entities are permitted to sponsor clubs under Premier League rules.

Etihad considers legal action

In a statement issued to The Athletic, Etihad Airways says it is considering legal action against the Premier League after the publication of the commission’s findings. The airline said it “categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication” that it had been involved in improper commercial arrangements.

Etihad said the Premier League had not contacted or engaged with the airline during the process, leaving it without an opportunity to provide information or respond to conclusions that could be interpreted as relating to the company. It said it would seek legal advice on options to protect its interests.

Real Madrid submit dossier on FC Barcelona refereeing payments to UEFA

UEFA has confirmed it has received a “substantial amount of documents” from Real Madrid as part of its ongoing investigation into FC Barcelona’s payments to companies linked to former refereeing official José María Enríquez Negreira.

The material has also been passed to UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors, who will assess it as part of their ongoing review.

UEFA opened its inquiry in 2023. Barcelona have said the more than €7 million paid over two decades was for technical reports on refereeing.

Real Madrid calls for swift UEFA decision

In a statement, Real Madrid said the dossier contained extensive documentation and evidence relating to events it believes directly affect the integrity of the competition and confidence in the refereeing system.

The club called on UEFA to conclude its investigation “with the utmost urgency” and said it would continue to collaborate with the governing body

Turkey suspend 448 club officials pending betting case

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has referred 448 current and former club officials to its Professional Football Disciplinary Council as part of its betting investigation.

The officials have held leadership roles during the past five years at clubs competing in the 2026/27 Süper Lig and TFF 1. Lig. The federation said they had been identified as having placed bets while in office.

TFF imposed provisional measures on the officials from 30 September pending the disciplinary proceedings. The list includes Trabzonspor president Ertuğrul Doğan and Beşiktaş vice-president Hakan Daltaban. Around 171 of those referred were linked to Süper Lig clubs.

Betting investigation widens

Doğan said he had previously held a betting account and disclosed it to the authorities. “If we made a mistake, we apologise, but we have done nothing wrong,” he told Turkish broadcaster A Spor.

The action follows earlier disciplinary cases involving referees and players in Turkey’s wider betting investigation. In a separate case, Turkish authorities this week detained the head and six members of the country’s refereeing board over allegations of interference in refereeing procedures.

Senior figures at rival Premier League clubs want the Manchester City case concluded before the season ends so sanctions can take effect in 2027/28, according to The Times, with one club chief calling further delay “unacceptable”.

City have until Friday to lodge an appeal. New rules require appeals to be completed within 12 weeks, with findings issued within a further 30 days. Similar deadlines would apply to any appeal against sanctions.

City’s lawyers could argue that these limits should not apply because proceedings began before the rules were introduced.

Burnham concerned about losing City owners

Meanwhile, UK prime minister Andy Burnham has said he would be “really concerned” to lose Manchester City’s owners following the club’s guilty verdict. Speaking to BBC News, he described them as “a huge partner in the building of modern Manchester”, citing their investment in the club and the wider city during his time as mayor.

Burnham said it would be wrong to intervene or take sides while proceedings remained contested.
 

Nantes owners agree sale as Park Bench sign Bordeaux deal

FC Nantes’ owners, the Kita family, have signed a preliminary agreement to sell the club to investors led by entrepreneur and sports adviser Paulo Tavares. The deal is reportedly worth €100 million, plus €25 million in variable payments, and would end Kita's 19-year ownership.

According to RMC Sport, the reported price has raised eyebrows in France, where figures of €20 million to €40 million had also circulated last week. Nantes were relegated to Ligue 2 last season and face financial difficulties, with an ageing stadium and outdated training facilities.

Tavares, who heads Phenix Sports Invest, says he has raised more than €300 million from French, Luxembourgish and Portuguese investors.

Tavares previously attempted to buy Valenciennes in 2019 and Saint-Étienne in 2023, but neither deal went through. The Nantes deal must still go through consultation with the club’s works council and receive approval from French football’s financial regulator, the DNCG.

Bordeaux sale agreed

Meanwhile, Girondins de Bordeaux have announced that Gérard Lopez has signed a sale agreement with data analytics and software company Park Bench. The transaction is for a symbolic €1, with Park Bench taking on the club’s debts.

The new ownership group is led by James Bord and Evan Sofer. They also hold stakes in Cordoba CF, Dunfermline Athletic and Septemvri Sofia.

As part of the legal takeover process, the buyers will appear before the regional financial control commission of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine football league in the coming days.
 

Verona submit €300 million stadium plans to city council

Hellas Verona have submitted a feasibility document to the city council for a proposed €300 million, 30,000-capacity stadium. The plans would see the existing Bentegodi demolished and replaced with a multi-purpose venue on the same site, formally starting the approval process under Italy’s stadium legislation.

According to the club, the project would be financed primarily through private investment from their owners, with a public contribution expected towards elements benefiting the wider urban area. The council is now reviewing the documentation.

The proposed stadium would bring spectators closer to the pitch and expand hospitality facilities. Restaurants, retail outlets, corporate event spaces, concerts, a club museum and stadium tours would support year-round use with the aim to diversify revenue.

Verona aim to complete the stadium for the 2031/32 season. That timetable would allow the city to offer a venue capable of hosting Euro 2032 matches.

Bologna reach agreement

Elsewhere in Italy, Bologna FC have reached an agreement with exhibition operator BolognaFiere to develop a 35,000-capacity stadium, also at an estimated cost of €300 million. The venue would be built in the northern part of the BolognaFiere site, with completion targeted for spring 2031 so the club could begin playing there in the 2031/32 season.

The plans include a retractable roof and movable pitch, allowing the arena to accommodate concerts, exhibitions and conferences.

Both the Verona and Bologna projects have been included in the 14-stadium shortlist selected from 16 submissions for potential UEFA Euro 2032 hosts, which the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) submitted to UEFA yesterday.
 

EFC vice-chairman urges Europe's biggest leagues to share overseas media income

Dariusz Mioduski, Legia Warszawa's owner and EFC vice-chairman, says European Leagues should introduce a solidarity mechanism of their own before calling for changes to how UEFA distributes club competition revenue.

European Leagues called for substantial changes to the model earlier this year, arguing that the current distribution increases polarisation in the club game. Mioduski's response is that the leagues have no comparable system between themselves, and that this is where they should start.

Speaking to Off The Pitch at the EFC General Assembly in Copenhagen, he says: "I would love them to have a similar type of solidarity system for everybody in Europe, because the clubs are the only place where this actually exists."

Revenue from smaller markets

Mioduski points to the income generated when big leagues like the Premier League, LaLiga and Bundesliga sell broadcast rights in Poland and other smaller markets, which he says brings a lot of money out of those markets.

"They're not returning or sharing anything, zero," he says. "Perhaps, rather than criticising this, the European Leagues should develop a system also where there is a sharing from the media rights which are sold in all these territories, and some of them are significant."

He calls the distribution of UEFA's club competition revenue a difficult discussion, but points out that no part of the club game has raised significant objections since the current model was agreed a few years ago. He does not expect major changes in the next cycle.
 

Manchester City have been found guilty of serious Premier League financial rule breaches after an independent commission concluded that the club artificially inflated revenues and reduced costs by more than £900 million over nine seasons.

The Premier League said City arranged “sham” commercial contracts with several sponsors that did not reflect the true agreements between the parties. According to the commission, the sponsors were required to pay only part of the stated sponsorship fees, while the remaining amounts were funded by Abu Dhabi United Group, the club’s owner.

The commission also found that City used further arrangements to reduce reported operating expenses. These included undisclosed consultancy agreements and a circular arrangement involving Fordham, an entity that purchased players’ image rights, which the commission said was also funded by ADUG.

Failure to co-operate

City were also found guilty of the majority of charges relating to their failure to co-operate with the Premier League’s investigation. The commission said the club had made “concerted efforts to stop and frustrate” the investigation and had systematically breached its obligations to assist the league across almost all of the relevant allegations.

A separate sanction process will now follow, while City have until 2 October to appeal.
 

​FIFA refuses UEFA disclosure claim as Infantino opens door to reserve payments

FIFA has asked a United States court to reject UEFA’s attempt to obtain documents linked to its abandoned plan to sell 20 per cent of its competitions, including the World Cup.

UEFA filed proceedings in August seeking disclosure of the material as it prepares for possible criminal proceedings in Switzerland against Infantino. According to The Times, FIFA has argued that UEFA’s application is intended to harass the organisation and spread misinformation about its president.

FIFA told the court there was no criminal proceeding or investigation under way in Switzerland and rejected UEFA’s claim that Infantino had sought a personal financial interest in the FIFA Forward Enterprise project. The governing body abandoned the plan after UEFA threatened a boycott following its disclosure in July.

Support for higher distributions

Infantino has also written to FIFA’s 211 member associations saying proposals for additional funding will be discussed at the FIFA Council meeting on 15 October. UEFA and CONCACAF recently proposed an immediate $10 million payment to each association from FIFA’s $6 billion reserves.

In July, Infantino had said extra funding would depend on support for the FFE plan, but has now said he would back “the greatest level of additional funding that can responsibly be delivered” through FIFA’s governance process.
 

FC Barcelona chief executive Del Río to leave as CFO steps up

Manel del Río will leave his role as FC Barcelona chief executive at the end of September after informing president Joan Laporta of his resignation, according to ARA. The position will remain vacant for the time being.

Sergio Serrano, who has served as the club’s chief financial officer since the start of this season, will provisionally assume much of Del Río’s responsibilities. Club sources cited by ARA said the departure was agreed by mutual consent.

Del Río joined Barcelona in 2022 and initially led the club’s corporate and financial operations before being appointed chief executive in September 2025. His promotion ended a three-year period in which the club had operated without a permanent chief executive following Ferran Reverter’s departure.

Revolving management structure

During Del Río’s time overseeing the corporate and financial departments the club have returned to Camp Nou amid redevelopment. Barcelona have projected revenue of €1.195 billion for the current season, compared with €1.060 billion generated in 2025/26.

His departure follows several changes within Barcelona’s senior management in recent years. Former economic vice-president Eduard Romeu left the club in 2024, while corporate director general Maribel Meléndez also departed. Other senior executives to leave have included Reverter, former Espai Barça chief Jordi Llauradó and former property and Espai Barça director Ramon Ramírez.
 

Al-Khelaifi announces Real Madrid’s EFC return and backs Ceferin re-election

Nasser Al-Khelaifi has said that Real Madrid are about to rejoin the European Football Clubs (EFC) organisation, as he spoke at the general assembly in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Tuesday.

The EFC chairman and Paris Saint-Germain president said of Real Madrid that EFC is "pleased they are in the process of returning to the European Football Clubs family."

Real Madrid exited the organisation when they joined the European Super League project more than five years ago – a project they left earlier this year.

This came as the Spanish club, UEFA and EFC made a joint announcement that the parties had reached an agreement “for the good of European club football”. Real Madrid simultaneously ended the €4.5 billion legal claim over lost earnings due to the blocking of the Super League competition.

Backing of Ceferin re-election

During his speech to the assembly, Al-Khelaifi also urged UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin to stand for re-election.

" I have to thank you – for being patient, for supporting the clubs, for defending what is best for football, even when it is not easy," he said and continued. "Football needs great leaders like you and on behalf of the more than 900 clubs of EFC we ask you to stand for president again next year.”
 

Juventus revenue remains stable as loss widens

Juventus reported operating revenue of €416.9 million for 2025/26, broadly unchanged from €419.9 million a year earlier, while the Italian club’s consolidated net loss widened to €66 million from €58.1 million.

Figures from Juventus’ annual accounts show broadcasting and media revenue fell by €31.9 million, including €27 million from the absence of Club World Cup income and €4.3 million from lower Serie A broadcasting revenue. Commercial revenue increased, with sponsorship and advertising income up €20.3 million.

Operating costs fell 10.4 per cent to €363.6 million from €405.7 million. The reduction included lower first-team staff costs, reduced loan fees and associated player registration costs. Depreciation, amortisation and provisions also decreased to €150.5 million.

Net debt rises

Juventus posted an operating loss of €39.4 million, compared with €29.9 million in 2024/25 while net debt increased by €50.9 million to €331.1 million, despite a €67 million capital increase completed in November 2025.

The club expects another loss and negative cash flow in 2026/27, citing Europa League participation rather than Champions League football. The board of directors have subsequently proposed a capital raise of €250 million.
 

Dortmund extend executives’ contracts as Cramer becomes chairman

Borussia Dortmund have renewed the deals of three members of their management board, with Carsten Cramer also taking over as chairman, the club said in a statement.

Cramer will remain with Dortmund until 2031, while sporting managing director Lars Ricken has agreed terms through 2030. Thomas Treß has extended his contract until 30 June 2028 after asking for a shorter term than his colleagues.

Svenja Schlenker’s existing agreement continues unchanged until 2028. Cramer, who joined Dortmund in 2010 and entered the management board in 2018, had most recently acted as its spokesperson.

Treß plans departure

Treß, part of Dortmund’s management since 2006, intends to pursue a different professional focus once his new deal expires. His previous contract had been set to run until 2027.

Ricken has overseen the sporting operation since May 2024 after previously running Dortmund’s academy. Club president Hans-Joachim Watzke said the leadership team had his confidence, pointing to its experience and understanding of the club.

Manchester City’s sanctions hearing is expected to take place within the next few weeks, with the Premier League set to recommend penalties after the club were found guilty of most of the charges against them, according to The Times.

The three-person independent commission will decide which sanctions should be imposed, with possible punishments including a points deduction, fine, transfer ban or expulsion. The Premier League, which acted as prosecutor, will be able to submit its view on the appropriate penalty, while City can present mitigating arguments.

City chief executive Ferran Soriano has meanwhile told fellow European club executives that the club strongly disagrees with the commission’s decision and intends to challenge it through an appeal and possible further legal action. Sources at a European Football Clubs board meeting in Copenhagen told The Times that Soriano said: “It has taken eight years to get here - and it’s going to take a lot more time.”

City found guilty

Last week, it was widely reported that City were found guilty of the vast majority of the charges, including the substantive allegations. The case concerns issues including financial reporting, sponsorship income, payments to players and managers, and non-cooperation with the Premier League investigation.

Some figures in English football believe the Premier League should seek a points deduction large enough to result in relegation, although the commission will determine the final punishment.
 

Europe’s top-flight clubs set for half of Club World Cup fund

Europe’s top-flight clubs are set to receive half of FIFA's €220 million Club World Cup solidarity fund under an agreement being finalised with European Football Clubs (EFC), according to The Guardian.

The proposed deal would allocate €110 million to European clubs, with the remaining half distributed elsewhere. EFC had sought slightly more than 60 per cent of the fund before agreeing to a 50-50 split after discussions with FIFA.

Payments would go to top-division European clubs that did not participate in the 2025 Club World Cup, with distributions partly based on how many seasons each club spent in their domestic top flight between 2021 and 2024.

UEFA competitions influence payments

Clubs’ performances in UEFA competitions during the same period will also influence payments, provided they did not take part in the tournament in the United States.

Formal confirmation is expected after the FIFA Council meets in Zurich on 15 October.
 

AC Milan post €24 million loss as revenue decreases

AC Milan have reported a net loss of around €24 million for the 2025/26 financial year, while total revenue including player sales fell 6 per cent year on year to €464.6 million, the club have announced.

Milan said the decline in revenue reflected the absence of European competition. Turnover nevertheless remained 1.7 per cent above the 2023/24 level, while sponsorship income exceeded €100 million for the first time.

AC Milan also recorded average Serie A attendances of more than 72,000, the highest in the league for a second consecutive season. However, the club missed out on Champions League qualification last season and is therefore playing in the Europa League in 2026/27.

Debt rises

Net financial debt increased from approximately €92 million a year earlier to €145.3 million, while shareholders’ equity stood at €176.4 million. AC Milan said the higher debt reflected the use of credit facilities for investment, growth projects and longer-term development.

The club also pointed to the acquisition of the San Siro Great Urban Function, including the Stadio Meazza and surrounding areas, on 5 November 2025, describing the stadium project as their main long-term development initiative.
 

Vasco da Gama sale advances as Brazil bans betting sponsorships

Vasco da Gama are set to change ownership after Almirante Participações, led by businessman Marcos Lamacchia, submitted the only bid for 90 per cent of the club’s SAF in a judicial process. The proposal includes €85 million for the football operation and still requires approval from the club’s members.

Lamacchia, the stepson of Palmeiras president Leila Pereira, has committed to further investment covering the squad, infrastructure and other obligations. Brazilian media reported that the wider financial commitment could exceed €340 million.

The transaction concludes Vasco’s previous ownership under 777 Partners. Brazilian football authorities have meanwhile imposed restrictions on dealings between Vasco and Palmeiras while reviewing potential conflicts of interest linked to the ownership structure.

Ban on betting

The ownership change comes as Brazil has prohibited betting operators, including their advertising and sponsorship activities. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed the measure on 25 September, with existing advertising arrangements required to be withdrawn by 5 October.

The measure affects a key revenue source across a wide range of Brazilian clubs. Flamengo, as an example, receive €42 million annually from Betano, while betting companies are estimated to contribute more than €170 million each season in sponsorship across Brazil’s top division.
 

Roma receive final approval for €1.5 billion stadium project

AS Roma have received final approval for their proposed €1.5 billion stadium project in Pietralata after the Conference of Services concluded with a positive decision on the technical and economic feasibility plan, as announced in a club statement.

The approval was formally confirmed by Extraordinary Commissioner Massimo Sessa at the Ministry of Infrastructure, bringing the institutional review process to an end.

Rome mayor Roberto Gualtieri said the decision means the project can now move towards construction, with work targeted to begin in 2027. He said there were “all the right conditions to build the stadium”, while indicating that the construction phase could last around two and a half years.

Roma's project

The project, submitted by Roma's owner The Friedkin Group, includes a 60,605-capacity stadium on a 27-hectare site in Pietralata. Around 15 hectares are planned for public green space, squares and pedestrian areas, while the wider development also includes a museum, retail facilities and hospitality and conference space.

Roma have previously targeted completion by 2030, ahead of Euro 2032. The project had already received approval from Rome’s city government and was declared to be in the public interest in May 2023, with the latest decision clearing the final approval stage before construction preparations advance.
 

Athletic Club post record revenue and €20.6 million profit

Athletic Club have reported record revenue of €192.9 million for 2025/26, up 12 per cent year on year, while net profit almost tripled to €20.6 million following their return to the Champions League.

Sporting revenue rose 16 per cent to €153.6 million, including €59.7 million from competitions and €81.9 million from broadcasting. Advertising and sponsorship income increased 23 per cent to €12 million, while EBITDA doubled to €38.1 million.

On the cost side, personnel expenses fell slightly with first-team sporting staff costs reaching €93 million. Other operating expenses increased by €4.4 million, while depreciation and amortisation rose by €6.3 million.

No debt

Athletic ended 2025/26 with no financial debt, while cash stood at €65.7 million. Equity reached €112.8 million at the end of the season.

For 2026/27, Athletic have budgeted revenue of €152.6 million, down €40.3 million after missing out on European competitions.

Liverpool FC have announced a five-year shirt sponsorship agreement with Turkish Airlines worth more than £300 million, according to multiple UK media, with the partnership starting from the 2027/28 season.

The airline will replace Standard Chartered on the front of Liverpool’s men’s, women’s and academy match shirts. The agreement will generate more than £60 million a year for the club over its five-year term.

Standard Chartered have been Liverpool’s main shirt partner since 2010, with their current agreement understood to be worth about £50 million per season. The company will remain involved with Liverpool as a global partner from 2027/28.

Premier League record?

Liverpool believe the Turkish Airlines agreement is the most lucrative shirt sponsorship in Premier League history. Manchester United have previously said their shirt agreement with Snapdragon is also worth more than £60 million annually.

Liverpool’s separate sleeve sponsorship with Expedia, currently worth between £9 million and £12 million per season, is also due for renewal.

European Leagues extend FIFA legal complaint to women’s football

European Leagues and global players’ union Fifpro have extended their European Commission complaint against FIFA to cover the governing body’s decisions concerning the women’s international match calendar and related regulations.

The organisation, which represents 53 professional leagues across 34 countries, initially filed the complaint in October 2024. It alleged that FIFA had abused its dominant position under European competition law when determining the men’s international calendar.

European Leagues said the expanded complaint details what it considers the same pattern of conduct in the women’s game, arguing that FIFA’s roles as both regulator and competition organiser create a conflict of interest.

Calls for Commission intervention

European Leagues said in a statement: “The European Commission must now act to ensure that EU law is respected and that the future of women’s professional football is not determined unilaterally by FIFA.”

The group said FIFA’s approach threatens the financial sustainability of professional women’s leagues as well as player welfare. European Leagues added 14 women’s divisions to its membership in June.

Ten Premier League clubs risk losing sponsors under gambling ban plans

Half of the Premier League’s 20 clubs could lose gambling sponsorship or advertising deals under government proposals to ban partnerships with betting companies that are not licensed in the UK, according to The Guardian.

An eight-week consultation on the proposed restrictions closes today. The Premier League are understood to oppose a ban, arguing that the mainly Asia-facing betting and casino services involved are not offered to UK customers.

10 top-flight clubs now have commercial relationships with unlicensed operators, up from six during the summer. The increase comes as Premier League clubs begin a voluntary ban on gambling companies appearing as front-of-shirt sponsors this season.

Everton have agreed a three-year sleeve sponsorship with crypto casino Stake.com, while Fulham have moved SBOTOP branding from their shirts to training kit. Eight other clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham, have agreements involving stadium advertising or player branding.

Betting firm warns clubs

Unlicensed operators generated £379 million from UK users in the first half of 2025, according to the Campaign for Fairer Gambling, accounting for 9 per cent of Britain’s £8.2 billion online gambling market.

Entain, which owns Ladbrokes, has written to the 10 clubs, warning that unlicensed operators are not required to provide safeguards imposed on UK-licensed companies.

UEFA are preparing criminal proceedings in Switzerland against FIFA president Gianni Infantino over his proposed sale of a 20 per cent stake in the governing body’s tournaments, according to several media reports.

US court filings submitted by UEFA’s lawyers allege the planned €3.6 billion deal was priced at an “absurdly low” level and had not been determined through a competitive auction or assessed by an independent valuer.

The court documents also claim that Infantino himself stood to profit financially from the sale. They state: "In truth, it was a vehicle for Infantino and that small circle acquire a permanent stake in and otherwise profit from FIFA's most valuable assets to the detriment of FIFA, its members, and other parties within the football family".

The filings say UEFA and their lawyers are considering proceedings against Infantino and potentially other FIFA officials for criminal mismanagement under Swiss law. If proven, the alleged offence can carry a prison sentence of up to three years.

Seeks documents from Thrive Capital

Infantino had proposed selling the stake through a new company, Fifa Forward Enterprise, to private investors led by Joshua Kushner, whose Thrive Capital fund was involved in the plan.

UEFA’s filings are also seeking court orders requiring Thrive Capital to disclose documents and electronic data relating to the proposal and for Kushner and the fund to give evidence. The documents allege FIFA’s 211 member associations were offered $40 million over four years for supporting the plan, with the amount reduced by 75 per cent if they rejected it.

UEFA has confirmed in a statement that representatives of its national associations have unanimously mandated the UEFA president and administration to pursue institutional, political and legal avenues in response to the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal. The statement also says FIFA has confirmed in writing to UEFA that FIFA Forward Enterprise has been “irrevocably and permanently withdrawn”, prompting UEFA to provisionally suspend plans for European teams to withdraw from FIFA competitions in the coming season.

David Beckham linked to one of three FC Nantes takeover bids

David Beckham is involved in one of at least three bids to acquire FC Nantes, with owner Waldemar Kita considering a sale of the French club, according to Ouest-France.

Two of the offers for Nantes are connected to British-based funds. Beckham's name has surfaced several times during high-level discussions, although the nature and extent of the former England international's involvement remain unclear.

Beckham, who owns Inter Miami CF, has previously been linked with efforts to acquire Nantes. His lawyer met two years ago with Le Collective Nantais, an initiative that sought to bring together local businesses and supporters to buy the club from its owners.

Kita considering Nantes exit

Kita, a 73-year-old Polish businessman, bought Nantes in 2007 and has overseen two relegations to the second tier, in 2009 and 2026.

He and his son Franck, the club's chief executive, have faced opposition from sections of the Nantes fanbase, while 24 head coaches have departed during Kita's 19-year ownership.

Nigeria federation president, executive committee and general secretary resign amid corruption allegations

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the federation’s Executive Committee and general secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi have resigned from their positions, the NFF announced on X.

Gusau, 62, had led the NFF since 2022 and confirmed his departure at a press conference at the federation’s headquarters in Abuja. The resignations come around a month before the organisation’s next general elections.

The departures also come as the NFF faces allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Local media have reported that Nigeria’s Department of State Services is investigating the alleged misuse of €10.9 million provided by the government in 2024 to settle outstanding payments owed to national-team players and officials.

Follow qualification failures

The changes also follow Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, meaning Nigeria will miss the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

Nigeria’s men previously failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 World Cups. Gusau defended his record at Thursday’s press conference, citing Nigeria’s economic difficulties and fluctuations in the national currency when addressing the federation’s financial problems.

Sheffield United could face a 12-point deduction after their former parent company, COH Sports Bidco Limited (CSBL), was liquidated by a London business court on Wednesday, according to The Athletic.

CSBL was established by American investors Helmy Eltoukhy and Steven Rosen to acquire Sheffield United from Prince Abdullah Bin Mosaad bin Abdulaziz bin Al Saud's United World. The takeover, valuing the club at over £100 million, was completed in December 2024.

United World filed a winding-up petition in July after CSBL failed to make the final payment of around £35 million owed under the deal. The petition was granted on Wednesday, with the debt undisputed.

EFL and IFR investigating

The liquidation could constitute an insolvency event under English Football League rules, for which a 12-point deduction is the standard sanction. The EFL will now assess whether CSBL's liquidation falls within those regulations.

The assessment also comes after Sheffield United's shares were transferred from CSBL to Delaware-based 1919 Partners LLC in June, shortly before the winding-up petition was filed. Helmy Eltoukhy and Steven Rosen remained in control of the club after the transfer which the EFL and Independent Football Regulator are investigating.
 

Greek gambling executive in talks to buy Bristol City stake

Kaizen Gaming co-founder and chief executive George Daskalakis is in advanced talks to acquire a minority stake in Championship club Bristol City, according to Sky News.

Daskalakis and co-investor Sandford Loudon, a financier and banker whose advisory firm Oakvale Capital has worked on transactions in the sports and gaming sectors, are negotiating with Bristol City owner Steve Lansdown. The pair are understood to have been pursuing an investment in the club for some time.

The size and value of the proposed investment have not been disclosed. It also remains unclear whether the talks include an option allowing Daskalakis and his investment group to increase their holding to majority control at a later stage.

Daskalakis football conncections

Daskalakis co-founded Kaizen Gaming, which owns online betting brand Betano. Betano was Aston Villa's front-of-shirt sponsor until last season and has also held sponsorship agreements with Bayern Munich, SL Benfica, River Plate and Sparta Prague.

Lansdown has been involved with Bristol City for close to 30 years and is reported to have invested £280 million in the club during his ownership tenure.
 

Helene Schrub expected to become LFP CEO amid governance reform

Helene Schrub is expected to succeed Arnaud Rouger as chief executive of the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), according to L’Equipe, as the organisation prepares to implement changes to French professional football’s governance.

Rouger is due to leave the LFP in mid-September after announcing his departure following the approval of the governance reform in July. The LFP board is scheduled to discuss its new management structure at a meeting on 4 September.

Schrub, 43, left her position as FC Metz’s chief executive at the end of July after holding the role since 2016. She had spent more than two decades at the club, initially working in communications, and was the only female chief executive in Ligue 1 last season.

Reform to shape governance

The new governance reform include replacing the LFP with a company owned by clubs and strengthening the powers of the French Football Federation (FFF). The reform has faced opposition from some clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and LOSC Lille.

Schrub is currently a member of the FFF’s executive committee under president Philippe Diallo and also served on the body during Noël Le Graët’s presidency. L’Equipe reports that she has not yet given her response over the LFP position. If appointed, she is expected to leave the FFF executive committee.

Germany’s Federal Cartel Office has concluded that the 50+1 rule can comply with competition law, while calling for changes to ensure it is applied consistently across Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga clubs.

The authority said on Wednesday that it had no fundamental objections to the rule following an investigation launched in 2018. Although 50+1 restricts competition for investment, it said preserving member influence and club structures can justify the restriction.

However, the Cartel Office said the rule must be applied consistently and without differences that lack objective justification. It has issued Bundesliga with guidance on how 50+1 should be applied in future.

Arrangements face scrutiny

The authority raised concerns over RB Leipzig, saying Bundesliga must ensure supporters at all clubs can become voting members. It separately challenged the framework for Bayer Leverkusen and VfL Wolfsburg, which currently have exemptions from 50+1.

While Bundesliga has proposed preventing new exemptions while protecting the two clubs’ existing arrangements, the authority said their parent associations must eventually gain influence comparable with those at other clubs.

Wolfsburg and owner Volkswagen said they would review the "non-binding opinion" while calling for a negotiated solution. Wolfsburg said reforms should provide legal certainty and fair competitive conditions while recognising different club structures. Volkswagen called for a “viable compromise that takes all interests into account.”
 

King Power sends Leicester sale brochure with £222 million valuation

Leicester City’s owners, King Power, run by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, are seeking £222 million for a portfolio including the English club and Belgian side OH Leuven, described as part of an existing multi-club structure, according to The Athletic.

Global investment bank Citigroup has prepared a sale brochure, titled Project Lineup, which has been distributed to potential investors. The portfolio also includes Leicester’s women’s team, academy, King Power Stadium and training facilities.

A source close to the process told The Athletic that a transaction could ultimately be agreed closer to £148 million, citing Leicester’s relegation to League One.

Financial challenges

Leicester had a six-point deduction imposed for breaches of profitability and sustainability regulations last season, which contributed to their relegation to the English third tier. The club have reported net losses of £93 million, £90 million, £19 million and £71 million across their last four accounting reports.

A sale would end King Power’s 16-year ownership of Leicester, during which the club achieved major sporting results, including the 2016 Premier League title and 2021 FA Cup victory.
 

Levy’s Tottenham stake set to be diluted after missed share issue deadline

Former Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy is set to have his stake in the club’s controlling shareholder company diluted after missing a deadline to participate in a share issue, according to Bloomberg.

Tottenham recently raised funds by issuing new shares in ENIC Sports Inc., the holding company that controls the Premier League club. The Lewis family invested £100 million and offered Levy the opportunity to participate in line with his existing holding.

A person close to the Lewis family told the media outlet that Levy requested an extension before committing to provide funding. He was given another 10 days but did not provide the funds before the deadline passed.

Levy's ENIC stake

Levy’s stake of around 29 per cent in ENIC will therefore be diluted, Bloomberg reported. The Lewis family have invested around £200 million in Tottenham since September.

Earlier this summer, Eight Sports Capital, a consortium led by Brooklyn Earick, claimed it had agreed to acquire a 24.99 per cent interest in ENIC from Levy family trusts, which would leave them with 4.89 per cent. However, the deal was never confirmed by ENIC or Tottenham, with both saying at the time that they were unaware of any sale.
 

EFL tightens regulations after Southampton 'spygate'

The English Football League (EFL) have tightened their regulations on clubs acting in good faith following Southampton FC’s spying breaches during the 2025/26 season, according to The Athletic.

The wording of Regulation 3.4 has been amended ahead of the new Championship season, with clubs now explicitly prohibited from managing their affairs or acting in a way intended to gain an unfair advantage under EFL regulations.

New guidance also states that clubs’ duty of utmost good faith includes disclosing all material facts, documents and information reasonably required by the EFL to apply its regulations effectively.

During the so-called “Spygate” case, an independent disciplinary commission found that Southampton initially supplied inaccurate information to the EFL, claiming no video footage had been captured or shared before later accepting otherwise.

Southampton punishment

Southampton breached Regulation 3.4 and rules prohibiting clubs from observing opponents’ training within 72 hours of a match. As a result, Southampton were expelled from the Championship play-off final and docked four points for the 2026/27 campaign.

Head coach Tonda Eckert has separately been charged by the FA in July with three breaches of Rule E3.1 with Southampton still awaiting the outcome of that process.

Gianni Infantino’s opponents are preparing a “governance boycott” of FIFA and weighing legal action in an effort to force the governing body’s president to resign following the collapse of his proposed FIFA Forward Enterprises (FFE) venture. Leading figures are also prepared to consider forming rival international competitions if Infantino remains in office.

According to The Times, leaders from UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have agreed a series of measures aimed at increasing pressure on Infantino ahead of the FIFA presidential election in March. These include “paralysing” FIFA by refusing to participate in Council and committee meetings or ratify decisions taken by the organisation.

Infantino has secured public backing from 15 of FIFA’s 211 member associations since details of the proposed sale of stakes in World Cup commercial rights emerged, while several member associations have withdrawn their support for his re-election. One source told The Times: “Everyone is very determined he needs to go and if not we will take all the necessary steps.”

UEFA warns of possible legal action

Meanwhile, UEFA has sent a legal notice to FIFA stating that it is considering legal action, arbitration and regulatory complaints linked to the FFE proposal. The letter also instructs FIFA and named executives, including Infantino, to preserve all relevant documents and electronically stored information.

FIFA announced on Saturday that it had abandoned its FFE venture after the plans were met with strong opposition and were publicly criticised and rejected by CONCACAF, the AFC and UEFA.
 

Staveley move for West Ham stake sparks Kretinsky ownership dispute

Amanda Staveley has agreed to buy Vanessa Gold’s 25 per cent stake in West Ham United for a reported £150 million, setting up a potential ownership dispute with Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky. The agreement with Staveley and Chicago-based Ashland Forest Capital Partners remains subject to the club’s shareholder pre-emption process.

As reported by Bloomberg, under West Ham’s shareholder agreement, existing investors have first refusal on shares offered for sale at an agreed price. That gives Kretinsky the opportunity to match the proposed transaction before it is completed. Kretinsky became the club's largest shareholder in June when he increased his stake from 27 per cent to 43 per cent after acquiring part of the Gold family’s shareholding.

A spokesperson for Staveley said she had “huge respect” for Kretinsky and wanted to work with all shareholders. A spokesperson for Kretinsky, however, said the proposed sale risked undermining the club:

“The agreement we had reached with the Gold family in June provided stability for the club at a crucial time. Today’s announcement does the opposite.”

Kretinsky reviewing options

Bloomberg previously reported that Kretinsky had been negotiating to acquire part of Gold’s holding in a move that would have made him the club’s largest shareholder. Following confirmation of the Staveley agreement, Kretinsky was said to be reviewing all available options, including exercising his pre-emption rights in full.

West Ham said the process is expected to take around two months and that the club’s ownership structure and day-to-day operations will remain unchanged until it concludes. Gold said her earlier discussions with Kretinsky and other parties “could not be brought to fruition”.
 

Chelsea handed £10 million fine and suspended transfer ban by FA

Chelsea FC have been fined £10 million and handed a suspended two-window registration ban by the Football Association after admitting 74 breaches relating to payments to unregistered agents and intermediaries during Roman Abramovich’s ownership. The registration ban is suspended until 30 June 2027 and will only take effect if the club commits further relevant breaches before then.

The sanctions follow an FA investigation into undisclosed payments linked to player transfers between 2010 and 2016. Chelsea accepted the financial penalty, while successfully appealing against a suspended points deduction imposed by an independent regulatory commission.

The FA appeal board ruled there was insufficient evidence to support the original finding that Chelsea had gained an actual sporting advantage through the breaches, leading it to replace the suspended six-point deduction with the suspended registration ban. The FA said it is continuing to investigate individual misconduct arising from the case.

Self-reported breaches

The case was one of three regulatory investigations launched after Chelsea's owners, BlueCo, self-reported historical compliance issues during the club's 2022 takeover. Earlier settlements with UEFA and the Premier League covered related matters from the same period and resulted in fines of £8.6 million and £10.75 million respectively.

Chelsea said the conclusion of the FA process brings all regulatory proceedings linked to the self-reported matters to an end.
 

FIFA begins review of possible 64-team World Cup from 2030

FIFA has launched a consultation on a possible expansion of the men's World Cup from 48 to 64 teams from the 2030 edition, according to documents seen by ESPN. The governing body has invited proposals for independent research into the potential effects of a larger tournament, with a decision on whether to proceed with the study scheduled for 14 August.

The five-page research brief states that FIFA is assessing the strategic implications of expanding the competition beyond its current format.

It proposes appointing an external agency to evaluate how a 64-team tournament could affect the competition and the wider football ecosystem, with a full analysis due in September.

Research to assess impact

The consultation follows the introduction of the 48-team format at the 2026 World Cup. ESPN reported that a further expansion to 64 teams had previously been rejected privately by senior FIFA figures before the latest review was initiated.

Agency proposals are due by 7 August before FIFA decides on 14 August whether to proceed, ahead of a full report expected on 11 September.
 

Sevilla appoint Goldman Sachs to seek buyer after Ramos deal collapses

Sevilla FC have appointed Goldman Sachs to lead the search for a buyer for an 85 per cent stake in the club after negotiations over a proposed takeover involving former player Sergio Ramos broke down, according to El Confidencial. The sale process values the club at around €450 million.

The club’s five largest shareholder groups - the Carrión, Castro, Del Nido, Guijarro and Alés families - have jointly hired the US investment bank to coordinate the process. Prospective investors will be required to demonstrate their financial capacity before being allowed to proceed. JB Capital Markets had previously been advising on the transaction.

The ownership process comes as Sevilla continue to deal with financial challenges. The club reported a net loss of €54 million for the 2024/25 season, improving from a loss of €82 million a year earlier, while revenue fell to €115 million from €175 million.

Ramos deal collapse

The move to hire Goldman Sachs follows the collapse of talks with Ramos and investment fund Five Eleven Capital. According to El Confidencial, Ramos initially agreed to acquire 86,000 shares, but later reduced the offer to around 30,000 shares, valuing the club at around €100 million, prompting the shareholder groups to end negotiations.
 

The proposal also included a subsequent €120 million capital increase that would have strengthened the new ownership group's control by increasing the number of shares in issue. A club source told media outlet El País that they were staggered that Ramos and Five Eleven tried to complete a takeover for only €100 million.
 

Takeovers offer lifeline to under pressure clubs in Bordeaux and Brussels

An Anglo-American consortium has agreed to acquire Girondins de Bordeaux, but the deal will only proceed if the French club secure a return to National 1 after being excluded from the national league system, according to L'Equipe. The acquisition comes ahead of a key hearing before the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF).

British investment fund Sparta Capital has partnered with US venture capital firm Park Bench to acquire 100 per cent of the club for a symbolic €1, with Park Bench understood to be the principal investor.

The new owners have injected €10.5 million to fund the coming season, settle outstanding liabilities and meet obligations under Bordeaux's restructuring plan. However, the transaction remains conditional on the club being reinstated to National 1.

Bordeaux are currently in Regional 1 and will contest their exclusion from the national league system at Wednesday's CNOSF conciliation hearing. Failure to secure National 1 status could put the takeover at risk and ultimately lead to the club's liquidation.

Dailly acquire RWDM Brussels

Meanwhile, RWDM Brussels have completed a takeover by former majority shareholder Thierry Dailly, ending John Textor's ownership of the Belgian club through Eagle Football. The deal follows months of uncertainty during which RWDM faced bankruptcy proceedings, while a Brussels court granted the club additional time after being told negotiations with prospective investors were under way.

The bankruptcy petition had been filed by former chief executive Gauthier Ganaye over unpaid severance. Dailly, one of the founders of the reformed club in 2015, returns three years after his exit and takes control ahead of RWDM's start to the new season in Belgium's third tier.
 

Bologna unveil plans for new €300 million stadium project

Bologna 1909 have announced plans for a new stadium project after identifying a proposed site in partnership with the City of Bologna and BolognaFiere. In a joint statement, the parties confirmed they have signed a letter of intent to assess the feasibility of the development.

According to local media, the proposed venue would have a capacity of more than 30,000 and include a retractable roof. The project is expected to require an investment of around €300 million. The site is located on land owned by BolognaFiere, where planning approvals already exist for exhibition facilities, a factor that could speed up the approval process.

The project forms part of Bologna's bid to be among Italy's five selected venues for UEFA EURO 2032, which the country will co-host with Türkiye. BolognaFiere president Gianpiero Calzolari said: “The letter of intent represents a first concrete step to further explore the feasibility of a strategic, long-term project.”

Financial review to follow

Mayor Matteo Lepore said Bologna and BolognaFiere will review the project's financial sustainability in September before deciding whether to proceed. He added that only then would it be possible to confirm whether the proposal would move forward.

If approved, the stadium would replace plans to renovate the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara and form part of a wider redevelopment area alongside transport links, hotels and other infrastructure.