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.

Olympique Lyon are being sued for $63 million in a London claim connected to the financing of a transfer involving Igor Jesus, Bloomberg reports. The action has been brought by PRPF LLC, linked to lender MC Credit Partners.

The dispute stems from a revised agreement tied to a proposed transfer from Brazilian side Botafogo, another club within Eagle Football Holdings. Lyon are alleged to have missed a scheduled payment due in November, leading to the claim.

According to court filings, the total includes $43.1 million in principal, alongside fees and interest charges.

Multi-club model under focus

Lyon and Botafogo are both controlled by Eagle Football Holdings, founded by John Textor, with the group facing financial pressure across its operations. Lyon have also been dealing with regulatory scrutiny over their financial position.

The case highlights the growing use of transfer-related receivables as financing tools within football, with lenders and regulators assessing risks linked to multi-club ownership structures.

UK government offers Abramovich meeting over £2.35 billion Chelsea funds

The UK government has offered to meet Roman Abramovich to seek agreement on releasing £2.35 billion from the sale of Chelsea FC to charity, despite having set a deadline this week for compliance or potential legal action.

According to The Times, Treasury officials have contacted Abramovich’s representatives through lawyers, but no agreement has been reached.

The government maintains the funds must be spent entirely within Ukraine, while Abramovich wants the money to support all victims of the war.

Stalemate continues

The proceeds remain frozen in an account linked to Abramovich’s company Fordstam Ltd, nearly four years after the club was sold. Abramovich’s representatives argue that legal action would not succeed and that his proposed terms should be accepted.

Fordstam’s latest accounts state that Abramovich is obliged to donate £987 million in net proceeds rather than the full £2.35 billion.

European clubs call for Champions League draw rule change

A number of European clubs have called for a change to Champions League regulations to allow teams from the same country to face each other in the league phase, according to the BBC.

The proposal relates to the current format introduced for the 2024/25 season, which prevents clubs from the same domestic league meeting during the opening eight-match phase before restrictions are lifted for the knockout rounds.

Concerns have been raised that the rule increases the likelihood of more difficult fixtures for non-English sides, with several clubs required to face Premier League opponents.

Clubs divided

The issue has been linked to the growing number of English teams in the competition, with three placed in Pot 1 this season, leading to additional draw constraints for other clubs.

Some clubs support removing country protection earlier in the tournament, while others favour extending it into the knockout rounds after recent domestic match-ups, including Paris St-Germain facing Monaco and Brest.

DNCG approved Red Star FC sale after limited checks on 777 Partners

France’s football financial regulator, the DNCG, carried out only limited due diligence before approving the sale of Red Star FC to US investment firm 777 Partners in 2022, according to newly released documents.

The material was obtained by supporters group Red Star Bauer Collective after a legal process lasting nearly four years, following an initial request to the French Football Federation in May 2022. The documents were only disclosed in February 2026 despite earlier court rulings in favour of release.

They indicate that the DNCG performed what the group describes as a superficial review of 777 Partners’ financial position and legal standing before authorising the takeover from then owner Patrice Haddad. “The documents show French clubs remain vulnerable to toxic buyers,” the collective said.

777 Partners fallout

777 Partners has since entered bankruptcy proceedings, with several executives facing legal action in the United States after the Red Star transaction had been completed.

Co-founder Josh Wander has been indicted in a case involving alleged fraud of $500m, including charges of wire fraud, securities fraud and conspiracy, each carrying potential prison sentences of up to 20 years.

UEFA consider direct-to-consumer Champions League streaming service

UEFA are exploring plans to launch a direct-to-consumer streaming service for Champions League matches in the next broadcast cycle, according to The Guardian.

Discussions remain at an early stage, with no decision taken on pricing or structure, and the governing body is assessing whether a dedicated platform could be introduced from the 2027–2031 rights period.

A trial is being considered in selected markets, potentially in Asia, through UC3, the joint venture between UEFA and European Football Clubs (EFC), which manages commercial rights. One person familiar with the discussions said the aim is to test whether the model can operate alongside existing broadcast agreements.

Streaming plans tied to broader strategy

The proposal follows moves by domestic leagues to expand direct distribution, with the Premier League preparing to introduce its own app-based service in Singapore ahead of next season.

UEFA’s approach to digital distribution has also been part of wider discussions with clubs, including Real Madrid, as part of an agreement last month to settle disputes linked to the European Super League project and to explore the use of technology to deliver competitions.

Chelsea have been given a suspended one-year ban from signing first-team players and fined £10 million by the Premier League after the club admitted breaches of financial rules during Roman Abramovich’s ownership. The sanction relates to payments connected to transfers between 2011 and 2018 that were not fully disclosed in financial reporting.

The transfer ban will be suspended for two years, meaning Chelsea can continue registering senior players provided there are no further rule breaches during that period. The Premier League did not impose a sporting sanction, such as a points deduction, as part of the settlement.

The settlement agreement published by the Premier League states that the breaches involved payments exceeding £23 million to seven unregistered agents or associated entities in relation to the transfers of Eden Hazard, Ramires, David Luiz, Andre Schurrle, Nemanja Matic, Willian and Samuel Eto’o. In total, £47.5 million was paid to 12 individuals or companies connected to those deals.

Academy and FA sanctions

Chelsea have also been banned from registering academy players for nine months if those players were previously registered with another Premier League or English Football League academy. The restriction does not apply to current academy players, international youth players or those registering for the first time at Under-9 level.

The Premier League said Chelsea’s decision to self-report the historical breaches and cooperate with the investigation was taken into account in the sanction. The fine could have been £20 million and the transfer ban two windows if the club had not voluntarily disclosed the information.

According to The Times, the English Football Association (FA), which last year raised 74 alleged rule breaches, are expected to follow the Premier League’s verdict and also impose a heavy fine, expected to be within the same range as the Premier League’s. A sporting sanction is not anticipated.
 

Laporta re-elected as FC Barcelona president with 68 per cent of votes

Joan Laporta has been re-elected as president of FC Barcelona after receiving 68.2 per cent of the votes in the club’s latest presidential election.

A total of 32,934 members backed Laporta, while Víctor Font received 14,385 votes, representing 29.8 per cent.

The result means Laporta will remain president until 2031. He previously led the club between 2003 and 2010 and has held the position again since 2021. In a statement released by FC Barcelona, Laporta said: “This result is resounding and gives us a lot of strength; it makes us unstoppable. Nobody will stop us.”

Low participation

Turnout in the election reached 42.3 per cent of eligible members, with 48,480 people casting a ballot. According to 2Playbook, this represents the second-lowest participation level in the club’s electoral history.

Víctor Font acknowledged the result and said he would continue advocating for his vision for the club.
 

Boca Juniors unveil plan to expand home ground capacity to 80,000

Boca Juniors have unveiled plans to redevelop their La Bombonera stadium, increasing capacity from about 57,000 to 80,000 seats as part of a project preserving the ground’s existing location and structure. The club outlined the proposal in an executive summary released last week.

The redevelopment has a reported cost between $50 million and $60 million and represent the largest modification to the stadium since it opened in 1940. The project would add new seating tiers and hospitality areas.

Boca president Juan Román Riquelme said the club had sought a solution that would expand capacity without relocating the ground or acquiring nearby housing.

Capacity pressures

Fewer than half of Boca Juniors' roughly 126,000 active members can currently attend matches at La Bombonera because of the stadium’s limited capacity. Demand for tickets has long exceeded supply, prompting repeated debate about expansion.

The redevelopment would require the pitch to be moved about four metres within the existing structure and could force the club to stage home matches elsewhere during construction. The club expect work to begin during the upcoming World Cup and last around two years.
 

Several Liga F clubs negotiating investment from external funds

Several clubs in Liga F are in talks with investment funds over potential capital injections, as external investors increase their interest in Spain’s top women’s football competition.

The development follows the recent entry of Mercury13 into Spanish women’s football through the acquisition of a majority stake in FC Badalona Women.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Liga F chief executive Pablo Vilches said discussions between investors and clubs are ongoing. “There is interest from more funds with different clubs,” he said, adding that further capital injections into teams in the competition “cannot be ruled out”.

Supporting development and stability

Vilches had previously suggested that clubs in the competition would open their capital to external investors as the league develops commercially.

Vilches said the entry of investors such as Mercury13 could support club development and provide greater financial stability.

Tottenham Hotspur chief executive Vinai Venkatesham has criticised the club’s previous wage structure and player investment strategy under former chairman Daniel Levy, saying the approach weakened Spurs’ competitiveness in the transfer market, as reported by The Telegraph.

In a summary of discussions from a recent meeting with the club’s Fan Advisory Board, Venkatesham said an internal review had identified the wage framework and player transaction model implemented during Levy’s tenure as factors that had limited the club’s ability to strengthen the men’s squad.

He also warned that the club have been loss-making for several years, meaning future squad investment will depend partly on increasing player sales alongside revenue growth in order to remain within financial regulations.

Wage model removed

Venkatesham told supporters that Tottenham have now removed the wage structure introduced during Levy’s time in charge as part of wider changes to the club’s governance and football operations.

When approached by The Telegraph, Daniel Levy declined to respond to the criticism raised by Vinai Venkatesham. People close to the former chairman, however, disputed the claims and highlighted that Tottenham qualified for a European competition in 18 of his 20 seasons in charge of the club.
 

Apollo inject €100 million into Atletico Madrid and appoint David Villa to board

Apollo Global Management have invested €100 million into Atletico Madrid after formally completing the acquisition of a 55 per cent stake in the LaLiga club, according to a club statement.

The transaction also triggers changes to Atletico’s board, which will expand to 11 members. Former Spain international David Villa joins as one of five directors representing Apollo, alongside Robert Givone, Tristram Leach, Sam Porter, Javier Valle and Antonio Vázquez-Guillen.

Chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and president Enrique Cerezo remain on the board but now hold minority stakes of 10 per cent and 3 per cent respectively, as reported by 2Playbook. Quantum Pacific Group become the second-largest shareholder with 25 per cent, while Ares Management retain a five per cent stake.

Sport city funding

Apollo’s investment comes as Atletico progress plans for the Ciudad del Deporte complex, a mixed-use leisure and entertainment development surrounding the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium.

The club said the funding will support the project while maintaining investment in the first team.
 

Report claims Marseille executive filed police incident report after Benatia dispute

A senior Olympique de Marseille executive filed a police incident report following an internal dispute with sporting director Medhi Benatia during the 2024 summer transfer window, according to La Provence.

The outlet reports tensions developed between Benatia and Cécilia Barontini, who had been appointed to help oversee the club’s administration alongside Alban Juster under president Pablo Longoria. Barontini is said to have opposed several sporting decisions, including the signing of Mason Greenwood.

La Provence adds that the disagreement escalated over several weeks and culminated in a confrontation in Longoria’s office at the club’s La Commanderie training centre, after which Barontini recorded an incident report with police.

Marseille reject

Marseille rejected the allegations during a press conference ahead of their Ligue 1 match against Auxerre. Director of communications Bel-Abbès Bouaissi said the club were “extremely shocked” by the report, describing the articles as containing “accusatory” claims and “unfounded insinuations”.

The investigation, based on around 20 anonymous sources, also alleged tensions between Benatia and Greenwood during the season, with the sporting director questioning the forward’s commitment and considering making him available for transfer.

Leicester City and the Premier League have each filed appeals after an independent commission imposed a six-point deduction on the club for breaching the profitability and sustainability rules.

The Premier League is seeking a further sanction linked to Leicester’s delayed submission of their 2023/24 accounts. While the disciplinary commission acknowledged that Leicester delayed submitting their accounts, it did not treat the delay as an aggravating factor when determining the penalty.

Premier League said it wants the appeal process concluded before the end of the EFL season in May to provide clarity for clubs and supporters.

Leicester's appeal

Leicester are contesting both the scale of the punishment and the mechanism through which it was applied. The club are understood to argue that the English Football League should not be able to enforce a sanction on the Premier League’s behalf.

The deduction has moved Leicester into the Championship relegation places. They are 22nd in the table, two points from safety, with 14 fixtures remaining.
 

OutField takes majority stake in Le Mans FC as Courtois joins as minority investor

Brazilian investment fund OutField has acquired a majority stake in Le Mans FC from Thierry Gomez, consolidating control of the Ligue 2 club six months after initially entering its share capital as a minority shareholder.

The deal was completed with the support of European investors including NinetyTwo X and NxtPlay Capital. Through the latter vehicle, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has joined the club as a minority shareholder.

OutField, which manages more than $150 million and focuses exclusively on the sports industry, also owns a stake in Brazilian club Coritiba. The fund first invested in Le Mans last summer alongside high-profile athletes such as tennis player Novak Djokovic and former Formula 1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen.

New training centre

In a statement announcing the takeover, the club said a new training centre will be “one of the pillars” of the new ownership's project, with the facility scheduled to open in July 2026.

Thierry Gomez will remain a shareholder and president, continuing to oversee day-to-day operations.
 

FC Porto report €1.9 million profit for first-half of 2025/26 as player sales offset wage rise

FC Porto have reported a profit of €1.9 million for the first half of the 2025/26 financial year, up from €0.6 million in the same period last year.

The increase was primarily driven by a €15.3 million rise in profit on player sales, which reached €41.6 million. That offset a €13 million increase in wages, which climbed to €51.3 million.

Revenue excluding player sales rose 5 per cent to €80.9 million.

Debt falls

The Portuguese club reduced net debt by €46.4 million during the first six months of the financial year.

Porto finished outside the UEFA Champions League qualification places in both 2023/24 and 2024/25. They are currently top of the league as they seek to secure qualification next season and win the title for the first time since 2021/22.
 

FIFA yet to distribute €212 million Club World Cup solidarity fund as clubs grow frustrated

Clubs across multiple continents are waiting for FIFA to distribute €212 million in solidarity payments promised after last summer’s Club World Cup, more than seven months after the tournament concluded, as reported by The Guardian.

The fund, agreed as part of the competition’s financial model, was designed to benefit clubs that did not participate. While the €846million allocated as prize money is understood to have been paid, FIFA has yet to determine how the solidarity pot will be divided or when payments will be made.

There is no indication the money will not be paid, but frustration is growing, particularly among clubs in smaller leagues. If distributed evenly, the fund would amount to roughly €57,000 per top-flight club worldwide, although in practice payments are unlikely to be identical.

Allocation formula unresolved

One unresolved issue is how the €212 million will be split between the six confederations. Most of these also lack an established mechanism for distributing such funds.

A source at the Union of European Clubs told The Guardian that neither the organisation nor its members had received information on timing.

UEFA has published its financial report for the 2024/25 season, reporting revenue of €5.01 billion across all competitions — a record for a financial year without a men’s European Championship. More than €4 billion was generated from media rights agreements.

The accounts are the first released since the introduction of the new Champions League structure and outline the revenue distribution variations for clubs competing in UEFA’s three club competitions.

Paris Saint-Germain received the highest payout from UEFA, earning €144.4 million for winning the Champions League. Tottenham Hotspur received €41.4 million for their Europa League victory, while Chelsea earned €21.8 million for winning the Conference League.

Financial distribution

UEFA distributed €3.4 billion to clubs during the season, an increase of €400 million compared with the previous campaign.

The governing body allocated 10 per cent of its gross competition revenues to solidarity payments. Of that total, €308 million was distributed to clubs not participating in European competitions.

Further funds were allocated to clubs eliminated in qualifying rounds, while €25 million was directed towards the UEFA Youth League and women’s club competitions.
 

FA reviewing Ratcliffe remarks for possible breach of regulations

The English Football Association is assessing whether Jim Ratcliffe’s claim that Britain has been “colonised by immigrants” breaches its regulations, according to The Times.

The Manchester United co-owner has apologised for his “choice of language”, but the FA’s legal team is considering whether the comments could amount to bringing the game into disrepute under Rule E3.1.

As a club director, Ratcliffe falls under its jurisdiction, with breaches for media comments typically resulting in financial penalties. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said the matter was being handled by the governing body’s legal and regulation department.

Project and internal fallout

The remarks have prompted concern among figures involved in the proposed Old Trafford regeneration.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham described the comments as “inaccurate, insulting, inflammatory and should be withdrawn”, while sources told The Times that political support for the stadium project could be affected.

Senior figures at United have also indicated that the comments caused offence internally. In a statement on Thursday, the club said it “prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club” and that equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in its work.
 

Aleksander Ceferin: UEFA position on Russia ban remains unchanged

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has said the organisation’s position on the exclusion of Russian clubs and the national team from international competitions “remains unchanged”.

Speaking in Brussels on the sidelines of UEFA’s 50th Congress, Ceferin said: “The position of UEFA is clear and has not changed,” and declined to “interfere” in discussions conducted by other parties.

Ceferin said he could not comment on what FIFA or governments decide, adding that he follows developments every day.

Return linked to end of conflict

Since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, UEFA have linked any return of Russian teams to the end of the conflict.

Ceferin's remarks follow comments by FIFA president Gianni Infantino in an interview with Sky News on 3 February, when he was asked about ending Russia’s suspension and said: “We have to consider it, for sure.”
 

QPR and Crawley Town sued for £11.1 million by former player over alleged racist abuse

Queens Park Rangers and Crawley Town are being sued for £11.1 million by former player Amrit Bansal-McNulty, who alleges the clubs failed to protect him from racist abuse that he says ended his professional career.

The claim, being heard at the Central London Employment Tribunal, seeks reimbursement for loss of opportunity and personal injury. Both clubs deny wrongdoing. The case relates to the 2021/22 season, when Bansal-McNulty was on loan at Crawley.

According to documents seen by The Guardian, the claim centres on alleged racist “banter” by former Crawley manager John Yems, who was banned for three years by the FA after being found guilty of 11 charges of using discriminatory language.

Failure to act

Bansal-McNulty alleges both clubs failed to act when concerns were raised, including during a telephone conversation with QPR’s then sporting director Chris Ramsey in April 2022. Ramsey told the tribunal the player had complained about banter but denied being told it was racist and rejected suggestions he had minimised the issue.

A decision on liability is expected this month, with any damages to be determined at a later hearing if the claim succeeds.

Leicester City have been given an immediate six-point deduction by the EFL, after an independent commission found the club breached profit and sustainability rules (PSR) over the three-year period ending in the 2023/24 season.

The commisions decision was announced by the Premier League on Thursday, with them ruling Leicester exceeded the permitted PSR threshold by £20.8 million.

The Premier League had sought a 12-point deduction, while Leicester argued a fine would be more appropriate and that the commission lacked authority to impose a sporting sanction in the Championship. Both arguments were rejected.

The commission said a points deduction was necessary to uphold the objectives of the rules and ensure consistency with previous cases. Leicester described the decision as “disproportionate” and said it would consider its next steps.

Loss limits dispute rejected

Leicester were referred to the commission in May 2025 over a Championship PSR breach. The club spent two seasons in the Premier League and one in the Championship during the assessment period, giving an allowable loss of £83 million.

Leicester argued the higher £105 million Premier League limit should apply, but this was dismissed.

The commission also found Leicester breached Premier League rules after failing to submit annual accounts by the required deadline and dismissed claims the club had shown exceptional cooperation during the process.
 

KKR announce acquisition of Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain investor in $1.4 billion transaction

KKR have announced the acquisition of sports-focused investment firm Arctos Partners in a deal valued at $1.4 billion (€1.2 billion). Arctos Partners oversees around $15 billion and is one of the largest specialist investors in sport, holding minority stakes in Fenway Sports Group (ownership group of Liverpool), Paris Saint-Germain and Atalanta.

The transaction will comprise $300 million in cash and $1.1 billion in KKR shares. The overall value could rise to almost $2 billion if performance targets are met, with up to a further $550 million linked to earn-out mechanisms.

The acquisition marks a significant expansion by KKR into sports investing and secondary transactions, purchasing stakes from existing shareholders. KKR manages more than $700 billion in assets globally.

KKR Solutions to be launched

Following completion, KKR will establish a new division, KKR Solutions, to be led by Arctos co-founder Ian Charles. The unit will focus on sports investments, secondary deals and bespoke financing solutions for other private equity firms.

KKR co-chief executive Scott Nuttall told the Financial Times that the new platform could materially increase the New York-based group’s assets in the coming years, potentially developing into a business managing more than $100 billion.
 

Women’s international transfer fees hit new January high as men's spending decrease

Women’s football spent more than $10 million on international transfer fees during the winter window in January, setting a new record for the women’s game, according to data published by FIFA. The total was more than 85 per cent higher than the previous January peak.

The rise in spending came despite a modest fall in activity. Just over 420 international transfers were completed in the women’s game during the window, almost six per cent fewer than January last year.

English clubs were the leading force in the women’s market, accounting for more than $5 million in transfer fees and recording the highest number of incoming transfers.

Men’s spending decrease

Men’s football recorded more than 5,900 international transfers in January, the highest total for the winter window in January, while spending reached more than $1.9 billion, a decrease around 18 per cent year on year.

English clubs were the biggest spenders with outlay on international transfers exceeding $360 million, while French clubs generated the highest income at more than $215 million.
 

Genoa court freezes 777 Holdings’ Genoa CFC stake in €28 million seizure

A Genoa court has confirmed a precautionary seizure of assets belonging to 777 Genoa CFC Holdings, freezing up to €28.1 million and stripping the company of control over its minority stake in Genoa CFC.

The order applies to all assets held by 777 Holdings and specifically covers its approximately 23 per cent shareholding in the club. The seizure was executed on 12 January 2026 as part of legal action brought by Genoa.

The case concerns Genoa’s claim to assign to 777 Holdings a credit owed by Fingiochi Srl, the holding company of former owner Enrico Preziosi, and to receive payment of the related amount. The court found both a probable existence of the credit and a concrete risk of non-recovery.

Custodian appointed

Ermanno Martinetto has been appointed custodian of the seized shares and will exercise voting rights at shareholders’ meetings in place of 777 Holdings while proceedings continue.

The decision further weakens 777 Holdings, already linked to creditor A-Cap, and leaves the company with limited options beyond appeal or settlement.
 

Schalke raise €7.5 million through stadium stake sale to supporters’ cooperative

Schalke 04 have raised €7.5 million after selling a minority stake in their stadium company to the supporters’ cooperative Auf Schalke eG, generating fresh equity as the club continues its financial restructuring.

The cooperative has acquired 5.4 per cent of the Veltins-Arena operating company, equivalent to a nominal €2.16 million in partnership capital previously held by the club’s registered association.

Schalke said the proceeds will be used to reduce liabilities and support balance-sheet stability, including progress towards meeting the DFL’s equity requirements.

Stadium ownership structure

Part of the funds will be used to repurchase stadium shares from Stadtwerke Gelsenkirchen, which acquired a stake in 2009. Following the buyback, Schalke said its holding in the stadium company will again exceed 50 per cent, restoring a voting majority.

Founded in late 2024, Auf Schalke eG has attracted more than 8,000 members, who have subscribed around €8 million since the start of 2025, enabling the transaction.

US businessman John Textor has fired back at reports claiming that he has been dismissed as director of multi-club ownership group Eagle Football Holdings.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Textor had been ousted in a joint action by private equity firm Ares Management and Olympique Lyon president Michele Kang. However, in a statement shared by Brazilian media outlet Globo, Textor has claimed that control of Eagle remains “in dispute.”

“Following concerns about Olympique Lyonnais' financial reports and the discovery of undisclosed changes in the club's governance, I had no option but to take control of the board of directors,” he said. “Shortly afterwards, Ares attempted to regain control, although this is still in dispute.”

Textor added: “I remain the controlling shareholder of Eagle Football Holdings Limited.”

Textor’s position at Botafogo

Earlier this week, reports also suggested that Textor’s status as the controlling owner of Brazilian club Botafogo via Eagle was also under threat.

According to Globo, he is currently facing significant pressure within the club’s management, with multiple executives lobbying for his departure. There is a “consensus” that his ownership is damaging the Rio De Janeiro club, amid its ongoing financial difficulties, with a debt of at least R$ 1.5 billion (€241 million).

Addressing his tenure at the club, Textor said in his statement: “Despite these proceedings in France, I continue to hold the position of president and leader of Botafogo.”
 

China issues 73 lifetime bans and docks points from 13 clubs in clampdown on match-fixing

China has issued 73 lifetime bans to people from working in football, as well as docking points from 13 professional clubs.

These sanctions come as part of a clampdown on alleged match-fixing, and were announced in a joint statement on Thursday from China’s Ministry of Public Security, General Administration of Sport, and the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

Nine clubs will start the 2026 Chinese Super League (CSL) season on negative points, including the reigning champions Shanghai Port as well as last years runners-up Shanghai Shenhua.

The sanctioned clubs were deducted a cumulative total of 72 league points, and were fined a total of 7.2 million Chinese Yuan (€866,000).

Former national team coach banned

Meanwhile, among the individuals to receive bans was Li Tie, the former head coach of the China men’s national team between 2020 and 2021. Previously, Li was handed a 20-year prison sentence in 2024 for offering and accepting bribes.

Chen Xuyuan, former president of the CFA, was also sanctioned.
 

Chelsea considering AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane as new home for women’s team

Chelsea are considering AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane as a potential option for Chelsea Women’s home fixtures going forward, The Athletic has reported.

Since 2017, the WSL champions have played the majority of their home matches at Kingsmeadow, which has a capacity of 4,850, with Women’s Champions League and select league games held at Stamford Bridge.

Plough Lane, which has a capacity of around 9,200, has been home to the League One side since 2020, and is located roughly five miles from Kingsmeadow.

Collaboration between the clubs

Previously, Wimbledon and Chelsea Women shared Kingsmeadow between 2017 and 2020, after Chelsea purchased the stadium from their London neighbours back in 2015.

In December, Wimbledon received planning permission to raise the venue’s capacity to 20,000.

SL Benfica have penned a two-year extension of their media rights agreement with telecommunications and media operator NOS, which will run until 2028.

The Lisbon club revealed that the deal is worth €57.1 million annually, or €114.2 million over its duration, making it the most lucrative media rights partnership for a Portuguese team.

The new contract comes ahead of the centralisation of media rights across the top two tiers of Portuguese football - the Primeira Liga and Liga Portugal - in 2028.

Benfica’s latest extension

The deal also includes an “advertising contract” between the club and NOS, which should deliver an additional €2.4 million.

Benfica meanwhile retains the right to exploit dynamic advertising at the club’s Estadio da Luz home, which is valued at €7.2 million.

Preston North End confirm talks with Saudi businessman Amr Zedan

English Championship club Preston North End have confirmed talks over potential investment with US-born Saudi businessman Amr Zedan.

Last week, Sky News reported that the club had been in discussions with Zedan since December, however talks had stalled recently.

In a statement responding to that report, Preston’s chairman, Ian Penrose, confirmed that Zedan was among the prospective investors in the Lancashire club, although talks were still in the “early stages”.

Looking to finalise deal at the “earliest opportunity”

“Specific comments on any approach are inappropriate at this stage,” Penrose said.

He continued: “Whilst such a transaction can take months to conclude, and there is no certainty that a successful outcome will be achieved, it is the board’s intention to conclude these negotiations at the earliest opportunity.

“It is of utmost importance that any future owner of Preston North End is the right fit for the football club, in order to maximise the club’s potential and the ambitions of our fans, stakeholders and owner.”

LFP wins legal dispute against BeIN Sports with network ordered to pay €14.1 million

France’s Professional Football League (LFP) has won its legal battle against Qatari broadcaster BeIN Sports.

The network holds rights to one weekly Saturday afternoon Ligue 1 match, through an agreement with LFP that is worth €78.5 million annually, according to L’Équipe.

However, since the start of the 2025/26 season, BeIN Sports has only paid €14 million of each of its €18 million instalments, expressing its discontentment with various broadcasting restrictions imposed by LFP. The TV provider had additionally been seeking €29 million in legal damages from LFP Media.

On Tuesday, the Paris Commercial Court ruled in favour of LFP, with BeIN Sports ordered to pay €14.1 million in “outstanding balances".

BeIN Sports will explore all avenues to appeal

Following the legal judgement, BeIN Sports told L’Équipe that the company will look to appeal against the ruling.

“We acknowledge the decision rendered at first instance by the court and will, of course, immediately explore all possible avenues of appeal,” BeIN Sports told L’Équipe.

Ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter backs calls to boycott World Cup

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter has supported calls to boycott World Cup matches held in the US this summer.

In a post shared on X, the 89-year-old shared comments made by Mark Pieth, a Swiss attorney and anti-corruption expert who advised fans to “stay away” from the US, due to the conduct of President Donald Trump and his administration.

In an interview with Swiss publication Der Bund, Pieth said: “If we consider everything we’ve discussed, there’s only one piece of advice for fans: Stay away from the USA.

“You’ll see it better on TV anyway. And upon arrival, fans should expect that if they don’t please the officials, they’ll be put straight on the next flight home. If they’re lucky.”

Blatter quoted the post on X, adding: “I think Mark Pieth is right to question this World Cup.”

Blatter’s resignation

Blatter previously served as the president of FIFA from 1998 to 2015, when he stepped down amid corruption scandals at the time.

This year’s edition of the tournament is set to be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, and will take place between 11th June and 19th July.

Spain should host 2030 World Cup final, says RFEF president

Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Rafael Louzan has stated that the final of the men’s 2030 FIFA World Cup should be held in Spain.

Speaking at this week’s Madrid Sports Press Association gala, Louzan claimed that the controversial events of this month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, held by one of the 2030 World Cup’s co-hosts Morocco, “damaged world football.”

During the AFCON final on 18th January, Senegalese players left the pitch after a penalty was awarded to Morocco in injury time, before later returning. Meanwhile, fans clashed with security in the stands at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

"It is true that in the final and some matches in AFCON, we have seen images that damage not only AFCON but also world football,” Louzan said.

“Spain has proven its organisational capacity over many years and will therefore be the host of the 2030 World Cup. The final of that World Cup will be held here.”

Portugal, Morocco and Spain will host

In 2030, Spain will host the competition alongside Portugal and Morocco, with matches also set to be played in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay.

As reported by The Athletic, Casablanca’s new 115,000-seat Hassan II Stadium could potentially stage the final of the tournament, while Real Madrid’s Bernabeu, Barcelona’s Camp Nou, and Benfica’s Estadio da Luz are also being considered.

WSL football makes £8.2 million loss for inaugural year

Women’s Super League (WSL) Football, the entity which oversees the top two tiers of English women’s football - the WSL and WSL 2 - has reported a loss of £8.2 million in its first year of operation.

The new entity, which was previously named Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL), took over governance of the two leagues at the start of the 2024/25 season.

Despite the loss for the year ended 31st July 2025, WSL Football says this result was “fully anticipated” and “in line with the business plan”.

In a statement, WSL Football revealed that its overall income has tripled since taking over from England’s Football Association (FA). The organisation generated revenue of £17.4 million for 2024/25, which included £8.4 million in broadcast revenue, £8.5 million in sponsorship revenue, and £128,000 in other income.

CEO hails "remarkable" progress

Nikki Doucet, CEO of WSL Football, said: “We are at the beginning of a long‑term growth journey, underpinned by a clear strategic vision and increased commercial platform.

“What we have achieved in a short space of time is remarkable and our prospects for the future are positive. We have established our foundation, and we are committed to continued investment into the game and our member clubs.”