Crystal Palace have lost their appeal against UEFA’s decision to demote the club to the Conference League for the 2025/26 season.

Last month, the Premier League club submitted their appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which has now upheld its initial ruling.

Palace, who had qualified for the Europa League, were deemed to have breached UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations, which prohibit individuals from influencing multiple teams within the same competition. At the time, former Palace co-owner John Textor also had a stake in French club Olympique Lyon, who also qualified for the Europa League.

Although the US businessman has since sold his 43 per cent stake in the South London club to fellow US investor Woody Johnson, this came well after UEFA’s deadline of 1st March to make changes to ownership structures.

During last week’s hearing in Lausanne, the club argued that they had been subject to unfair treatment by UEFA, and claimed that despite the presence of Textor within both teams through Eagle Football Holdings, they were to run as a multi-club organisation. This was however refuted by CAS’ ruling on Monday.

CAS’ verdict

In a statement, CAS said: ‘After considering the evidence, the Panel found that John Textor, founder of Eagle Football Holdings, had shares in [Crystal Palace] and [Lyon] and was a Board member with decisive influence over both clubs at the time of UEFA's assessment date.

‘The panel also dismissed the argument by [Palace] that they received unfair treatment in comparison to Nottingham Forest and [Lyon]. The Panel considered that the UEFA Regulations are clear and do not provide flexibility to clubs that are non-compliant on the assessment date, as [Palace] claimed.

‘This was an expedited procedure, with an operative decision rendered two and a half weeks after the appeal, filed on July 21 2025. Unless Parties request confidentiality, a full Award (with grounds) will be made available on the CAS website in due course.’

Villarreal vs FC Barcelona LaLiga match set to take place in Miami after RFEF approval

Next season’s LaLiga matchup between Villarreal and Barcelona is set to be staged in Miami, following approval from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

The RFEF’s board of directors gave the green light to proposals for the match to take place at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, and will contact FIFA to initiate the process for FIFA to allow the game to take place at the 65,326-seat venue.

According to Marca, both Villarreal and Barcelona are aware that the 21st December fixture is likely to be held in Miami, rather than at the La Ceramica Stadium in Villarreal.

FIFA and Relevent Sports settlement

In 2018, match promoter Relevent Sports filed a lawsuit against FIFA and US Soccer, after being prevented from bringing a LaLiga fixture between Barcelona and Girona to Miami.

Earlier this year, the longstanding legal dispute reached a settlement, opening up the possibility for domestic league matches to be held in the US.

John Textor partners with football financier Keith Harris in bid to take over Sheffield Wednesday

John Textor has partnered with football financier Keith Harris in his bid to takeover English club Sheffield Wednesday, according to The Guardian.

Harris has brokered takeovers of a number of English clubs in recent years, including West Ham United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa.

US businessman Textor recently confirmed his interest in investing in the Championship club, who have been embroiled in financial difficulties in recent months.

Wednesday’s financial woes

July marked the third successive month in which Wednesday failed to pay their players on time. Last month, several players subsequently handed in their notice in order to have their contracts terminated, with former manager Danny Rohl also leaving the club.

Despite the club’s ongoing financial struggles, the EFL confirmed last week that they would kick off the 2025/26 season with ‘no restrictions’, although they will remain under a transfer embargo until 2027.

UEFA has paid more than €10.8 million to Russian clubs since Ukraine invasion

UEFA has paid more than €10.8 million in solidarity payments to Russian clubs since the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, as reported by The Guardian.

European football’s governing body also did not provide solidarity payments for five Ukrainian clubs - Chornomorets, Real Pharma, IFC Metalurg, FSC Phoenix Mariupol, and FC Metalist - as they are allegedly located in a ‘zone of military operations’.

According to UEFA, solidarity funds are intended for teams that have not performed well enough domestically to qualify for UEFA competitions, as part of a plan to ‘maintain competitive balance’ in European football.

Although Russian clubs, as well as Russia’s national team, have been banned from international competitions since the invasion, UEFA reportedly provided €3.3 million to the Russian FA in 2022/23, followed by an additional €3.38 million in 2023/24, and €4.22 million the following season.

Ukrainian club directors on solidarity funds

In a joint statement shared by The Guardian, the directors of the aforementioned Ukrainian clubs said: ‘We have been informed that the obstacle to the above payments is some completely unclear requirements of a bank in Switzerland, which allegedly relate to the geographical location of the football clubs in the ‘war zone’.

‘We have not received any more detailed information or any legal justification for these restrictions on payments. The wording used in relation to the ‘zone of military operations’ is completely unclear to us and does not correspond to reality.

‘The zone of military operations, or rather the zone of military aggression of Russia, is not a specific region of our country, but the whole of Ukraine.’
 

Crystal Palace are confident in winning their appeal against UEFA, which would see the English club reinstated to next year’s Europa League competition, according to UK media.

In July, Palace were removed from the Europa League, due to the involvement of former co-owner John Textor with French club Olympique Lyon. The club were dropped to the UEFA Conference League, with fellow Premier League side Nottingham Forest taking their place in the Europa League.

After filing an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Palace’s hearing took place in Lausanne on Friday, with the verdict expected to come today.

Palace’s case to the CAS

As reported by Sky Sports, Palace are alleging unfair treatment by UEFA in not allowing the club to participate in the Europa League. The club are reportedly arguing that they have been singled out, with UEFA treating other clubs involved in multi-club ownership structures differently.

Last season, Manchester City and Girona - who are both owned by City Football Group (CFG) - were allowed to compete in the Champions League, while Manchester United played in the Europa League alongside Nice, despite INEOS holding stakes in both clubs as a co-owner of United and full owner of the French side.

Palace are also reportedly claiming that although US businessman Textor’s Eagle Football Holdings held shares in both teams, they were not operating as a multi-club organisation, with fellow co-owner Steve Parish running the South London club.

According to Sky Sports, Palace are additionally arguing that Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis - who placed his shares in the team into a blind trust to comply with UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations due to his ties to Olympiakos - made this move on 30th April. This is nearly two months after UEFA’s 1st March deadline to make changes to ownership structures in order to comply with the rules.

Manchester United complete £50 million Carrington renovation

Manchester United have competed a £50 million redevelopment of the club’s Carrington training ground.

The year-long renovation of United’s training complex began last June, and was funded by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s $300 million (£223 million) investment when he first acquired a minority stake in the club last year.

The project was led by Mancunian architect, Lord Norman Foster, and was designed with input form players and staff.

A “world class” facility

“Following a review of the facility last year, we made a quick decision to invest significantly in the creation of a world-class performance environment for staff and players to reflect our ambition and vision for Manchester United,” Sir Jim Ratcliffe said.

“We are delighted with the outcome and are confident the new facility will play an important role in building a winning culture at the club.”

Australian club Western United stripped of license

Australian club Western United have had their license withdrawn by Football Australia’s regulatory processes. This prohibits the Melbourne-based club from competing in either the men’s or women’s A-League domestic competitions.

The first instance board (FIB), an independent body that oversees Footbal Australia’s licensing regulations, determined on Thursday that United had not met the necessary criteria, and would subsequently have their license withdrawn with immediate effect.

In May, the club announced a reported AUS$100 million takeover agreement, that would see the US-based Kaminski family acquire a controlling stake through KAM Sports’ KAM Melbourne subsidiary. However, this deal is yet to be finalised, leaving the club on the brink of collapse.

Club to launch appeal

In a statement, Western United said the club were “bitterly disappointed” by the ruling.

The statement continued: “The club will be exercising its right to appeal the decision immediately, with confidence of a positive outcome as the sale of the club and injection of capital from KAM Melbourne continues to progress.”

Bayern Munich scale back Visit Rwanda sponsorship amid fan backlash

Bayern Munich have revised their partnership with Visit Rwanda to focus on player development, following backlash amid allegations of sportswashing.

The Bundesliga champions have confirmed that they will no longer promote the African nation’s tourism board, but will continue to partner with the organisation on talent development as part of a ‘strategic evolution’ of the partnership.

The Bavarian club have been facing mounting pressure from fans over the deal, after the United Nations accused Rwanda of supporting rebels in Congo. The original five-year deal signed in 2023 included branding within Bayern’s Allianz Arena home, as well as events intended to promote tourism in the country.

Bayern “transforming” collaboration

Jan-Christian Dreesen, CEO of Bayern Munich, said: “In constructive talks about our future direction, we agreed that a very special part of our relationship with [Rwanda Development Board] was the developmental nature of our work in Kigali through the FC Bayern Academy.

“We are therefore transforming our commercial partnership into a talent programme and expanding the FC Bayern Academy in Kigali together with the RDB as both a football and social initiative.

“This remains perfectly aligned to our strategic objective of developing playing talent in Africa.”

Newcastle United “controlled by PSR”, says manager

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has said the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR) are dictating the club’s transfer activity.

This summer, Newcastle have missed out on a number of transfer targets, including Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, and Joao Pedro, who each joined Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea respectively. According to Howe, PSR is preventing the club from competing with their rivals during this year’s summer transfer window.

Speaking to the media after Newcastle’s preseason loss to Atletico Madrid, the 47-year-old said: “We’re controlled by PSR. That's still limiting what we can do and that's the reality.”

He continued: "I've said many times, we're not the highest payers in the league. We're far from it and that is sometimes reflected in the choices players make.”

Newcastle’s recent financial statements

Earlier this year, Newcastle reported a pre-tax loss of £11.1 million for the 2023/24 season, down from a loss of £71.8 million the previous year. This coms despite the club generating record revenue of £320.3 million following their first UEFA Champions League season in 2023/24, up from £250.3 million in 2022/23.

The Premier League’s ongoing case against Manchester City may have cost both parties more than £200 million in legal fees over the last five years, The Times has reported.

Premier League clubs are growing concerned over the legal expenses of the Premier League’s cases with City and Chelsea. As per the Premier League’s financial statements, the English top flight saw an £81 million increase in operating costs for the 2023/24 season, following a rise of £41 million in the 2022/23 campaign.

The Premier League had a budget of £48 million for legal costs last season, marking a six-fold increase on the original budget.

Legal battles with City and Chelsea

The league is currently embroiled in multiple cases with the six-time champions. Most notably, the league has charged City with 130 alleged breaches of financial regulations, with the verdict expected to come in October according to recent reports.

The Premier League is also involved in a legal case with the club regarding Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules.

Meanwhile, the league’s investigation into Chelsea’s alleged irregular payments under the tenure of former owner Roman Abramovich has been going on for three years.
 

beIN Sports withholds €4 million from LFP amid growing frustration over Ligue 1 deal

beIN Sports has withheld €4 million in its latest payment to LFP for the broadcaster’s Ligue 1 rights, according to L’Équipe.

The report states that the Qatari network only paid €14 million of the €18 million instalment due on 5th August, due to the company’s discontentment over its current contract with LFP, which includes rights to the Saturday evening fixture.

Under the current partnership, beIN Sports is paying a reported fee of €78.5 million. However the broadcaster’s CEO Yousef Al-Obaidly recently expressed his dismay at the current restrictions imposed by LFP Media, alleging that the network had been given “third-class citizen rights”.

Responding to BeIN Sports’ concerns LFP Media general director Nicolas de Tavernost offered the possibility of airing the same team in successive weeks, marking a change to the existing contract, on the basis that Visit Qatar pays an additional sponsorship fee of €20 million.

beIN rejects LFP Media offer

In response, al-Obaidly blasted the proposal as being “completely disconnected from reality” in a letter to LFP Media.

He added: “The €20 million sponsorship contract you refer to was never agreed upon, never signed, and never saw the light of day between LFP Media and Qatar Tourism.”
 

Botafogo seeking €65 million from Lyon over player sales

Brazilian club Botafogo are demanding R$410 (€64.49 million) from Olympique Lyon for player transfers under “unfavourable conditions”, as first reported by Globo.

In a document shared by the Brazilian publication, the Rio de Janeiro club claimed that three players - Luiz Henrique, Igor Jesus, and Jair - were all sold below their market value, in order to provide financial support to Lyon, with both club’s owned by Eagle Football Holdings.

The French side were facing relegation from Ligue 1 by the DNCG, due to the club’s ongoing financial issues.

According to Botafogo, the club decided to sell their players in order to help Lyon, under the vision of an “Eagle Family”, in which all clubs owned by Eagle Football operate as one company.

Botafogo “forced” to accept transfers

The club said: ’Botafogo was "forced" to accept high discounted sales rates to receive short-term sales funds to help Lyon with funds.

‘In the DNCG decision of 15th November 2024, which prohibited Lyon from registering players, Botafogo was forced to negotiate with third parties certain players who could transfer to Lyon, such as Luiz Henrique, Igor Jesus, and Jair, under unfavourable conditions, accepting transfer fees much lower than the market value of these players.’
 

Bayern Munich confirm CFO’s departure

Bayern Munich CFO Dr. Michael Diederich is set to leave the club one year early, the Bundesliga champions have confirmed.

Diederich, who first joined the club in 2023, will leave his role on 30th September, despite his contract running until 30th June 2026.

Earlier this week, German publication Kicker reported that the club would not be nominating Diederich for a place on the German Football League (DFL) Executive Committee for the upcoming election, fuelling speculation of a parting of ways.

Dreesen and Eberl to carry out board duties

With Bayern’s search for a successor now underway, Bayern’s CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen and sporting director Max Eberl will take over the 59-year-old’s board responsibilities.

Herbert Hainer, president and chairman of Bayern Munich’s supervisory board, said: “After open and constructive discussions, Michael Diederich has informed us that he will not extend his contract with FC Bayern.

“We wish Michael all the best for his future and thank him very much for his hard work and the very successful time we spent together at FC Bayern. He has initiated many topics and projects, provided many new impulses, and established important partnerships for a successful future for FC Bayern.”
 

Serie A players to receive 25 per cent wage cut if relegated

The Italian Footballers’ Association (AIC) has struck a five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with Serie A, which will take effect from 2nd September.

Under the new CBA, Serie A players will face an automatic 25 per cent salary reduction if their club is relegated from the top flight. The clause applies only to contracts signed after 2nd September and allows for exceptions if mutually agreed by club and player.

Previously, clubs had lobbied for more contractual flexibility, in order to help them manage financial losses after relegation, which results in reductions in broadcast and sponsorship revenue.

New CBA to support “fair and sustainable system”

Serie A president Ezio Simonelli said: “This result confirms how institutional dialogue and collaboration between [Serie A] and the AIC are fundamental tools for facing the challenges of modern football with balance and foresight.

“Our objective, as Lega Serie A, is to contribute to an increasingly solid, fair and sustainable system, in which the needs of clubs and players can be synthesised in the common interest of protecting and growing the movement.”
 

Sheffield Wednesday to kick off season with ‘no restrictions’, despite financial issues

Sheffield Wednesday will start their Championship campaign with ‘no restrictions’, the EFL has revealed, despite the club’s ongoing financial issues.

This comes after payments to Wednesday players were late for a third successive month in July, with the EFL allowing Sunday’s fixture against Leicester City to go ahead on the expectation that they will be paid ahead of this weekend.

Earlier this year, the Yorkshire club were placed under a three-window transfer embargo that will last until 2027.

In a statement regarding Wednesday’s status, the EFL said, ‘The league wants to see a strong, stable and competitive Sheffield Wednesday, and for that to happen we are clear that the current owner needs either to fund the club to meet its obligations or make good on his commitment to sell to a well-funded party, for fair market value - ending the current uncertainty and impasse.’

John Textor interest

According to recent UK media reports, former Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor is monitoring Wednesday’s situation, and is interested in buying the club.

The US businessman told Sky Sports’ Alan Myers: “I just have not spoken with anybody at Sheffield Wednesday yet and I am monitoring the situation, hoping to better understand it.

“I’m definitely interested, It’s a lot to solve in a short amount of time with regards to taking advantage of the transfer window but it’s definitely a club and community I would like to help.”

The Belgian Pro League has teamed up with Off The Pitch to provide every club across its two top divisions and the top tier in women’s football with full access to Off The Pitch’s industry-leading newsletter – the go-to source for football business intelligence and strategic insight.

Through this partnership, relevant staff at all clubs will receive a curated daily newsletter designed to deliver actionable insights while saving time and improving decision-making.

“We are excited about this collaboration, which reflects our commitment to further strengthening the strategic foundations of Belgian football by giving clubs access to independent, high-quality insight. Off The Pitch was an obvious partner for us, given their strong reputation across the industry,” says Lorin Parys, CEO of the Pro League.

Off The Pitch’s newsletter is trusted by senior executives and decision-makers at more than 250 clubs, most top leagues, governing bodies, and football investors worldwide.

Important step

By entering this agreement, the Pro League not only enhances information access for its member clubs – it also joins Off The Pitch’s expanding network of forward-thinking leagues focused on equipping clubs with the strategic knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly complex football landscape.

“We’re proud to partner with one of the most innovative and forward-looking leagues in global football. Our mission is to ensure that the industry has access to the insights it needs to evolve and make better decisions – and this agreement is another important step towards that goal,” says Mads Meisner Christensen, co-founder and CEO of Off The Pitch.

A group of former footballers, Justice For Players, has initiated a new legal action, that could see players claiming compensation from FIFA, according to UK media.

The multi-billion-pound action comes after last October’s ruling by the European Court of Justice (CJEU), which deemed FIFA's transfer rules unlawful.

This followed a case brought forward by French former midfielder Lassana Diarra, whom FIFA had fined €10.5 million for leaving Lokomotiv Moscow one year into a four-year contract.

Justice For Players’ legal action

The Netherlands-based group is launching the class action against FIFA, as well as the football associations of France, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

Justice For Players is calling on any male or female players that have played for a club based in the EU or UK since 2002 to join the claim.

According to the foundation, around 100,000 players will be involved in the legal case.
 

Eagle Football’s shares in Botafogo frozen by Brazilian court

The Rio de Janeiro Court of Justice has frozen Eagle Football’s shares in Botafogo, as reported by Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte.

This move maintains John Textor as the Rio de Janeiro club’s majority shareholder, and prevents changes to the club’s ownership structure.

Eagle Football has also been ordered by the court to pay around $R152 million (€23 million) to Botafogo, which accounts for half of the group’s debt to the club.

Textor’s next move

US businessman Textor, who recently expressed interest in a full takeover of Botafogo, is looking to buy the Brazilian side from Eagle football, as well as RWDM Brussels, which is also a part of the multi-club organisation’s portfolio.

Earlier this summer, Textor sold his 43 per cent stake in Premier League club Crystal Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, and stepped back from his leadership roles at Olympique Lyon.
 

Manchester United facing delay over new stadium plans

Manchester United have hit a snag over the club’s plans to build a new 100,000-seat stadium, according to The Guardian.

The Premier League club’s plans are currently being delayed, due to a disagreement on the price of the land surrounding the stadium.

Negotiations between the club and Freightliner, which owns the land used as a rail fright terminal, have reached a standoff. The transport company is seeking £400 million, whereas the club value it at between £40 million and £50 million.

Could result in delay

United’s Old Trafford regeneration project is expected to cost £2 billion, with the club stating that it will generate £7.3 billion annually for the UK economy.

The ongoing stalemate could postpone the completion of the redevelopment, which had initially been slated for 2030.
 

Daniel Levy calls for verdict on Manchester City’s 115 charges

Tottenham Hotspur's Chairman Daniel Levy has called for a verdict on Manchester City’s 115 alleged financial charges, during an interview with Gary Neville on The Overlap.

“The process has gone on for far too long and needs to brought, for the good of the game, to conclusion,” Levy said.

Last week, UK media reports suggested the verdict on City’s charges could come as late as October this year. The club were initially charged in February 2023, with last year’s hearing taking place between September and December.

Multi-club owners should “be careful”

During the interview, Levy also reflected on the potential “abuse” of multi-club ownership in football. Discussing organisations with involvement with multiple teams, he said: “I think they have to be very careful.

“The idea that one club is involved with lots of different clubs, with the money involved today, I think it has to be controlled carefully.”
 

Premier League CEO dismisses reduction to 18 teams

Premier League CEO Richard Masters has reaffirmed that the division will not be reduced from 20 to 18 clubs, during an interview with BBC Sport. This comes amid FIFA’s ongoing dispute with Fifpro over the increasingly congested football calendars.

Masters told BBC Sport: “I don't think we should be forced into that decision.

“I am all for the growth of the game and the exciting competitions our clubs can participate in - but not at the expense of domestic football.”

Premier League clubs to preserve information
 

Meanwhile, the Premier League has introduced new regulations, under which clubs will be required to preserve all information, including WhatsApp messages, if being investigated for potential rule breaches.

Under the new rules, which feature in the English top flight’s handbook for the 2025/26 season, teams will have to inform all officials and players with potential ties to an investigation, that no information should be deleted.
 

French club Le Mans secured investment from Brazilian group

Brazilian private equity firm OutField has acquired an ownership stake in Le Mans, the French club announced.

The group sees tennis legend Novak Djokovic become an investor in Le Mans, as well as racing drivers Kevin Magnussen and Felipe Massa.

OutField’s investment in the Ligue 2 club is being led by its co-founder, Pedro Olivera, with the consortium also including OakBerry CEO, Georgios Frangulis.

Consortium to provide financial resources

“In [Le Mans president Thierry Gomez] and his team, we have found high-level management, with a long-term vision and a strong focus on sporting competitiveness, while preserving financial viability.

“We want to continue this work by bringing more financial resources, greater technical capacity, and experience adapted to the growing challenges of French, European, and global football.”

The initial verdict from the investigation into Manchester City’s financial charges may not be revealed until October, according to The Independent.

The hearing regarding City’s 115 alleged breaches took place between September and December last year, with the outcome previously expected to come during the 2024/25 season.

The Independent is now reporting that the verdict may be delivered during the second international break of the upcoming campaign between 4th and 18th October. Multiple club executives expect the verdict to come in September or October.

City’s 115 charges

City were initially charged by the Premier League in February 2023 for alleged financial breaches between 2009 and 2018.

The club have continued to deny any wrongdoing throughout the investigation.
 

Olympique Lyon revenue drops 24 per cent for 2024/25

Olympique Lyon have reported a total revenue of €273.8 million for the 2024/25 season, marking a 24 per cent drop from last year’s figure of €361.3 million.

Excluding the €111.6 million from player transfers, the Ligue 1 side presented a revenue of €162.2 million, which is €101.9 million less than last season’s income.

Over the last year, Lyon saw a significant decline in domestic broadcast revenue, which plummeted from €94.6 million to €22.8 million, amid the fallout from LFP’s now-terminated partnership with DAZN. For the 2025/26 season a further "very significant decline" is expected by the club in Ligue 1 TV-rights revenue.

Overall, Lyon revealed a total income of €45.7 million from TV and marketing rights, comprising €22.9 million from UEFA due to the club’s run to last season’s Europa League semi-finals.

Lyon’s successful DNCG appeal

Earlier this month, Lyon managed to retain their Ligue 1 status for next season, after the DNCG’s initial decision to relegate the club was overruled. This came after a €87 million contribution was provided by the club’s majority owner, Eagle Football Holdings, as well as €30 million in loans.

Recently, US businesswoman Michele Kang replaced John Textor as Lyon’s president, after the US investor stepped down from his leadership position at the club.
 

Everton sell women’s team to ownership group

Everton have sold their women’s team to Roundhouse Capital, the holding company controlled by the club’s owners, The Friedkin Group.

The English club have now become the latest Premier League side to spin off their women’s team to their ownership group, following Chelsea and Aston Villa.

The sale of Everton’s women’s team will help the club comply with PSR going forward, in a similar fashion to Chelsea, who posted a pre-tax profit of £128.4 million last season after making a £198.7 million profit from the sale of the club’s women’s team to their ownership group, BlueCo.

For the 2023/24 season, the Merseyside club reported a loss of £53.2 million, after making a £89.1 million loss the previous year. Everton previously received point deductions during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons due to PSR breaches.

Sale to open up investment opportunities

As reported by BBC Sport, the change in ownership will pave the way for potential new investment in Everton’s women’s team, without affecting the ownership structure of the men’s.

The 39,572-seat venue, which had been home to the men’s team for 133 years, will become the new permanent home of Everton’s women’s team from the start of next season, with the men’s side set to move to the newly built Hill Dickinson Stadium.
 

FC Barcelona deal with DR Congo to include training kit visibility

FC Barcelona and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ministry of Sports and Leisure have inked a new partnership that will include branding on the back of the club’s training kits.

The four-year agreement, which is worth €44 million according to The Athletic, will also see the club’s Spotify Camp Nou home host an ‘immersive exhibition’ of the country’s ‘cultural diversity and sporting tradition’.

The deal adds to the DR Congo’s existing football partnerships with AC Milan and AS Monaco, which were both signed in June.

Backlash over new deal

The LaLiga champions have incurred criticism for their new partnership with DR Congo, amid a ‘deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation’ in the country, as per Human Rights Watch (HRW). Last month, DR Congo and Rwanda signed a peace deal to end the conflict between the two countries.

The deal has also been criticised due to a lack of investment into football infrastructure within DR Congo in recent years.
 

Sheffield Wednesday facing player strike

English club Sheffield Wednesday have failed to pay their players on time for a third successive month, as reported by BBC Radio Sheffield.

The Championship club had previously been given a three-window transfer embargo by the EFL in June over repeated failures to pay monthly salaries on time.

Wednesday players could be set to go on strike in light of this, with the upcoming season set to start in just nine days. According to Mail Sport, the club's players have already called off this weekend's pre-season match against Burnley.

Earlier this month six players handed in their notice at the Yorkshire club, with FIFA’s rules allowing players to have their contracts terminated by giving a written notice, if they had not received salaries on time for two consecutive months.

Further turmoil at Hillsborough

Meanwhile, the North Stand at the club’s Hillsborough Stadium, which holds 9,255 seats, will close due to safety concerns from the Sheffield City Council.

The club said in a statement: ‘Sheffield Wednesday can confirm that, following a recent meeting with the local Safety Advisory Group, Sheffield City Council has today issued a Prohibition Notice preventing the use of the North Stand at Hillsborough.

‘The club are continuing to work with the Safety Advisory Group to satisfy their concerns such that the North Stand remains open.’
 

SD Huesca to sell stadium for €24.4 million

Spanish club SD Huesca have agreed to sell their El Alcoraz home to the Government of Aragon, the LaLiga 2 side have confirmed.

The €24.4 million sale of the 9,100-capacity stadium will help bolster the club’s financial sustainability, with Huesca stating that proceeds from the deal will help offset their existing debts.

According to 2Playbook, the club’s cumulative debt has risen to €15.4 million since the pandemic, with the agreement set to help them comply with LaLiga’s 1:1 rule.

Stadium to become a ‘leading sports and social facility’

In a statement, the club said the purchase will see the transformation of the venue into a ‘sports and cultural venue for public use'.

The statement continued: ‘With this agreement, the regional government expresses its willingness to acquire the stadium, currently owned by SD Huesca, to consolidate it as a leading sports and social facility, capable of hosting both football competitions and other sporting, cultural, and recreational events of public interest.’
 

Football clubs at risk of criminal exploitation, says UK Government report

British football clubs could be susceptible to potential criminal exploitation, the UK Government’s National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing report has revealed.

The report cited potential risks of criminals engaging in money laundering, fraud, and bribery with football.

This comes as the UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPRU) and the UK’s National Crime Agency are collaborating on Project Tachygenic, which was set up to assess the potential threat of international crimes within the game.

International ownership models cause for concern

In the report, the UK Government highlights the risks within ‘complex ownership structures’ in football.

The report states: ‘The diverse operating models of football clubs means there is no standard methodology should someone or a group of people wish to funnel criminal funds through the sector.

‘Many clubs have complex offshore corporate structures involving overseas-based enablers and financial products, often in jurisdictions with limited regulatory oversight.’

Global players’ union FIFPro has slammed FIFA’s ‘autocratic’ governance system, amid its ongoing dispute with the game’s global governing body regarding fixture congestion.

Recently, FIFPro was not invited to a FIFA meeting in New York, during which the organisation discussed the matter of rest periods between matches and seasons. In a statement, FIFPro expressed that the rights of both men’s and women’s footballers are being ‘seriously undermined’ by policies employed by FIFA.

FIFPro said: ‘The overloaded match calendar, the lack of adequate physical and mental recovery periods, extreme playing conditions, the absence of meaningful dialogue, and the ongoing disregard for players’ social rights have regrettably become pillars of FIFA’s business model; this is a model that puts the health of players at risk and sidelines those at the heart of the game.’

The union additionally accused FIFA of ‘systemically ignoring’ player issues, stating that the organisation ‘turns a blind eye’ to their basic needs.

FIFA hits back at FIFPro’s ‘divisive tone’

In response, FIFA released its own statement, which states:

‘FIFA is extremely disappointed by the increasingly divisive and contradictory tone adopted by FIFPro leadership as this approach clearly shows that rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, FIFPro has chosen to pursue a path of public confrontation driven by artificial PR battles - which have nothing to do with protecting the welfare of professional players but rather aim to preserve their own personal positions and interests.

‘The global football community deserves better.’
 

beIN Sports CEO expresses frustration to LFP Media over Ligue 1 rights deal

beIN Sports CEO Yousef Al-Obaidly has expressed frustration to LFP Media regarding alleged mistreatment of the Qatari broadcaster, in an email obtained by French media.

This comes amid rising tensions between the two parties over beIN Sports’ reported €78.5 million a year deal that includes rights to one weekly Ligue 1 match.

As reported by L’Équipe earlier this month, the network submitted a formal complaint to LFP Media due to broadcasting constraints, with beIN Sports seeking to amend the contract.

“While LFP Media lectures beIN Sports on contractual compliance, we find it curious that a multitude of other broadcasters, over the past few years, have been allowed to rewrite, tear up, and abandon their contractual commitments - which has seriously affected the value of French football,” said Al-Obaidly in an email addressed to LFP Media CEO Nicolas de Tavernost.

“Meanwhile, beIN Sports has been the only broadcaster to remain firmly on the side of the LFP – and yet, we are still treated like a bank at the behest of LFP Media and, moreover, with third-class citizen rights.”

Seeking “fair treatment”

Al-Obaidly also requested that LFP Media lift current restrictions imposed on the company, with beIN Sports unable to air the same club more than eight times, or show the same team in two successive weeks.

“All beIN Sports is fundamentally asking for is fair treatment- no major new rights, no contract renegotiations - simply fair treatment for the exceptional investment we are currently making,” said Al-Obaidly.

“We are simply asking for the restrictions on match selection and scheduling to be lifted.”
 

Ipswich minority owner raising £214 million to increase stake in club

US businessman Brett Johnson is looking to raise £214 million to purchase more shares in Ipswich Town, as reported by Bloomberg.

Johnson is targeting an enterprise valuation of £375 million, although that figure could drop to £325 million if Ipswich fail to secure promotion back to the Premier League next season.

The Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) is meanwhile in talks to sell its minority stake in the English club. Johnson's increased investment could therefore include some of the fund’s shareholding

Fund seeking significant profit

The pension fund is the main investor in US group Gamechanger 20 Limited, which completed a reported £40 million takeover of the Championship club in 2021. The PSPRS is seeking a significant profit on its initial investment in Ipswich.

The Suffolk-based club are set to generate around £100 million in transfer revenue for this summer, and will receive £56 million in parachute payments from the Premier League, following their relegation from the English top flight at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
 

UEFA and Super League close to “agreement in principle”, says Barcelona president

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that UEFA and the Super League are close to an “agreement in principle" in an interview with Mundo Deportivo.

The 63-year-old sees himself as an intermediary between the two parties, due to Barcelona’s continued involvement with the Super League as a founding member, as well as A22 Sports Management, the advisory company behind the competition.

“I have always tried to play a role in building bridges between the Super League and UEFA,” said Laporta.

“We are now in a situation where the Super League is engaging in dialogue with UEFA,” he continued, revealing that Super League CEO Bernd Reichart has held discussions with UEFA representatives over a potential deal.

Launch of new broadcasting service

Laporta added: “An agreement in principle is being reached, based on three blocks."

According to the Barcelona president, one of these blocks is the introduction of a new broadcasting platform that would provide free content globally.
 

John Textor looking to separate Botafogo from Eagle Football

John Textor is looking at separating Brazilian club Botafogo from the ownership portfolio of his company Eagle Football Holdings, the US businessman has revealed.

Speaking to Brazilian media, Textor said: “I want to buy Botafogo and take it away from Eagle.

“I will continue to own Eagle, but I think it would be better if Botafogo were separated. There are partnerships in Europe that are better for the club. I am talking to the management of Eagle, and I am the owner. The debate is whether we run our club jointly with Lyon or separately.”

Botafogo delivers “significant revenues”

According to Textor, the Brazilian Serie A club helps finance Eagle Football’s European clubs.

“Botafogo generates significant revenues and finances several loss-making operations of Lyon,” he said, adding: “Botafogo finances Europe, and not the other way around.”
 

Manchester City investigation is a distraction, Premier League CEO admits

Premier League CEO Richard Masters has admitted that Manchester City’s financial charges have been a distraction for the English top flight.

During an interview with Bloomberg TV, Masters said: “People want to watch football, and when you get dragged into financial affairs, I think people think there is maybe something going wrong here.

“I do accept all of that, but the competition remains strong.”

City still awaiting verdict

In February 2023, City were charged with 115 alleged breaches of financial rules, following a four-year investigation into the club. If the club are found guilty, they could reportedly receive fines, or even be stripped of Premier League titles.

City, who are still awaiting the verdict from an independent commission, have denied claims of any wrongdoing throughout the process.
 

Morecambe facing expulsion from National League amid financial issues

English club Morecambe have been removed from the National League for the 2025/26 season, after having their membership in the competition suspended with immediate effect.

The Lancashire club had already been placed under a transfer embargo due to ongoing financial issues.

Morecambe have been in talks over a takeover with Panjab Warriors for more than a year, however these have stalled, with owner Jason Whittingham stating that the club have not heard from the potential buyer over the last week, despite ‘numerous attempts’ to contact them.

Whittingham's claims comes despite Panjab Warriors was approved by the EFL in June and has supported the club through loans for most of the year, according to The Athletic.

National League to assess Morecambe’s situation on 20th August

In a statement, the National League confirmed that its Compliance and Licensing Committee would reconvene on 20th August to assess whether the club should retain its membership to the division.

In the meantime, Morecambe will remain under a transfer embargo, with their opening three fixtures of the new season postponed.

Crystal Palace have confirmed Woody Johnson as a new co-owner of the club, after completing his purchase of John Textor’s 43 per cent stake in the club.

The US businessman, who also owns the NFL’s New York Jets, joins the Premier League club’s ownership as a partner and director alongside chairman Steve Parish, and US investors Josh Harris and David Blitzer.

The minority stake sale comes as part of Palace’s plan to comply with UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, due to Textor’s majority share in French club Olympique Lyon.

Earlier this month, UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) ruled that the Premier League club had breached its regulations, and would subsequently be removed from the Europa League, with Nottingham Forest set to take their place.

Despite the agreement, this is beyond UEFA’s deadline of 1st March to make changes to club ownership.

Palace appeal UEFA decision

Meanwhile, the FA Cup winners have submitted an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), regarding UEFA’s decision to demote them to the Conference League for the 2025/26 season.

In a statement on Tuesday, CAS confirmed receipt of Palace’s appeal on UEFA’s ruling, stating that an ‘operative decision’ will be given by 11th August.
 

beIN Sports submit complaint to LFP Media over broadcasting constraints

beIN Sports has made a formal complaint to LFP Media, regarding broadcast constraints for Saturday afternoon Ligue 1 matches, according to L’Équipe.

As per the current agreement, the Qatari broadcaster is paying a reported €78.5 million per season for rights to one match per fixture round.

However, tensions are rising between LFP and beIN Sports, due to the fee, as well as broadcasting restrictions. For instance, the network is unable to air the same club more than eight times per season, and cannot show the same team in two successive matches.

Earlier this month, there was reportedly a delay in beIN Sports’ €18 million payment to LFP, which was due on 15th July. Although this was eventually settled, this is believed to have impacted Ligue 1 clubs over fears of non-payment.

LFP Media must find solutions, says FFF president

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation (FFF), told L’Équipe: “We must find the right solutions with beIN Sports.

“beIN Sports supports French football. It's up to the competent people at LFP Media to find solutions that allow for a peaceful relationship with beIN Sports, which is a long-standing partner."
 

Benfica unveil €220 million stadium renovation project

SL Benfica have announced plans for a €220 million Benfica District project, which will include the renovation of the Portuguese club’s Estadio da Luz and surrounding area.

The redevelopment project will increase the stadium’s capacity by nearly 15,000, bringing it to 80,000, and will include new commercial, hotel, and residential facilities, as well as a 10,000-capacity pavillion, and communal swimming pool.

This comes ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, during which the venue will host multiple matches, including a semi-final. The Lisbon club’s project has been designed by architecture giant Populous, as well as Portuguese firm Saraiva + Associados.

Project to deliver €37 million annually

Once complete, the revamped Estadio da Luz will generate revenue of €37 million per year, according to Benfica Group CFO, Nuno Catarino, which will equate to €24 million after operating costs.

Catarino added that the redevelopment is set to be completed within two to two and a half years.

Galatasaray announce €170 million capital increase

Turkish champions Galatasaray have announced a capital increase of €170 million, in order to help pay off existing debts, and bolster the club’s transfer spending.

80 per cent of this funding will help clear the club’s debt, while 10 per cent will go towards transfer spending. Meanwhile, the Istanbul club have revealed that the remaining 10 per cent will go towards taxes.

Earlier this year, Galatasaray reported a record revenue of €227.4 million for the 2023/24 season, up 47 per cent on last year, and made a profit of €79.4 million.

The uptick in revenue was primarily due to increased income from the Champions League, as well as player sales, and retail revenue.

Club to ‘freely shape its future’

In a statement, Galatasaray president, Dursun Aydin Özbek, said: ‘When we took office in 2022, we promised to achieve financial independence for Galatasaray. Today, my colleagues and I are proud to have fulfilled that promise.

‘As of July 22, 2025, Galatasaray has withdrawn from the Banks Union Restructuring Agreement by paying the loans and interest on these loans.

‘This is not just a financial decision; it is a symbol of our club's will to freely shape its future.’
 

AC Ajaccio takeover collapses

A proposed takeover of AC Ajaccio has collapsed, after Spanish lawyer Arnau Baqué Roig withdrew his interest in acquiring the French club.

Recently, the Corsica-based side were relegated by the DNCG to the National League, the third tier of French football, due to the club’s financial issues.

In May, Ajaccio’s current owner, Alain Orsoni, revealed that a takeover was close. At the time, Baqué Roig discussed his plans for the club during a press conference.

"Lack of transparency”

In a statement shared on X on Wednesday, Baqué Roig said: “Throughout the process, there has been a lack of transparency and clarity in undertaking the difficult task of redressing an extremely delicate financial situation.”

He added: “The constant worsening of the ACA's situation since the beginning of the negotiations, with a constantly increasing debt, has further complicated matters.”
 

Saudi Arabia announce privatisation of three SPL clubs

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry for Sport has announced the privatisation of three teams - Al-Kholood, Al-Zulfi, and Al-Ansar - which became the first Saudi Pro League (SPL) clubs to be offered to the public via initial public offerings (IPOs).

Al-Kholood have been purchased by Harburg Group, while Al-Zulfi have been acquired by Riyadh-based investment and real estate company Nojoom Al-Salam, and Al-Ansar have been subject to a takeover by Oudah Al-Baladi and Sons Company.

Last August, six clubs were offered for privatisation including the aforementioned teams, as well as Al-Okhdood, Al-Orobah, and Al-Nahda.

The SPL's first foreign owners

The takeover of Al-Kholood sees the American Harburg Group become the first foreign owners of a Saudi club.

Under the agreement, Al-Kholood will join Harburg’s ownership portfolio, which also includes a 6.5 per cent stake in Spanish side Cadiz CF.

Real Madrid have delivered €1.185 billion in revenue for the year ended 30th June 2025, the club have revealed.

This marks a 10.4 per cent, €111 million increase on the 2023/24 season, when Madrid became the world’s first club to eclipse the €1 billion mark in overall annual turnover.

Meanwhile, the LaLiga club’s net profit saw a €9 million, 56 per cent increase over the last year, rising to €24.3 million.

Record EBITDA

Madrid have additionally reported their highest ever EBITDA of €242.9 million, up from €156.3 last year.

At present, the club’s net equity stands at €598.3 million, in comparison to €574.1 million in 2023/24. While their net debt has increased from €8.5 million to €11.7 million, the club's debt related to the Santiago Bernabéu project is down €22.9 million to €1,131.7 billion.
 

Chelsea and Aston Villa receive warning from UEFA over swap deals

UEFA has issued a warning to Chelsea and Aston Villa regarding ‘inflated’ swap deals, according to The Times.

In summer 2024, the London side signed Omari Kellyman from Villa for £19 million, despite him never making a senior appearance for the Birmingham club. Chelsea academy graduate Ian Maatsen meanwhile went in the other direction, signing for Aston Villa in a £37.5 million deal.

The two player transfers are believed to have helped both clubs comply with the English top flight’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

UEFA will now be closely monitoring both clubs going forward, as well as swap deals, placing a particular focus on the ‘required specific adjustments to the club’s financial result’.

Recently sanctioned by UEFA

Earlier this month, the two teams were among five clubs that received sanctions from European football’s governing body.

Chelsea were handed a fine of €80 million to be repaid over four years, with Villa set to pay €20 million over three years.

Nottingham Forest secure £80 million loan

Nottingham Forest have secured an £80 million loan from US private equity firm Apollo Global Management, the Financial Times has reported.

The Premier League club agreed to a three-year loan last December, which has an interest rate of 8.75 per cent.

£55 million of the loan has been used to refinance Forest’s debt, as per the club’s filings, which was owed to Rights and Media Funding Group, with the remaining £25 million set to be used as working capital.

First Premier League investment

The new funding marks Apollo’s first foray into English football, as the club target further growth after securing a place in next season’s Europa League campaign.

According to recent reports, Apollo is in talks over a potential minority stake acquisition in Atletico Madrid, which would value the LaLiga club at €2.5 billion.
 

England’s independent football regulator set to be introduced later this year

The new independent football regulator will be introduced later this year, after the Football Governance Bill received Royal Assent to pass into UK legislation.

The regulator will preside over the top five tiers of English men’s football, placing greater scrutiny on club ownership, fan representation, and financial sustainability.

Earlier this month, the Football Governance Bill was approved by the UK Government’s House of Commons, receiving 415 votes in favour, and 98 against.

EFL statement

Following the formal passage into UK legislation, Rick Parry, chair of the English Football League (EFL), issued a statement welcoming the new act.

"The Football Governance Act becoming law is a watershed moment in the history of English football and lays the foundations for a transformational change in the way the game is governed at all levels for many years to come."

Snoop Dogg becomes minority investor in Swansea City

US rapper Snoop Dogg has become a co-owner and investor in Swansea City, the Championship club revealed.

The 53-year old becomes the latest investor in the Welsh club, after AC Milan star Luka Modric joined Swansea’s ownership in April.

Last year, Swansea were subject to a takeover led by chairman Andy Coleman, as well as shareholders Brett Cravatt, Nigel Morris, and businessman Jason Cohen.

Snoop Dogg, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, recently starred in the club’s kit launch video for the 2025/26 season.

An exciting welcome

“It is very exciting for us as a football club to formally welcome Snoop Dogg as a co-owner and investor into Swansea City,” said Tom Gorringe, CEO at Swansea City.

“His enjoyment and love of football is well documented, and he has often spoken of a desire to get more involved in the sport. We are delighted he believes that being part of Swansea City is the right way to realise that ambition."
 

Crystal Palace hopeful of Europa League reinstatement due to email

Crystal Palace are hopeful that the club will be reinstated as a Europa League club for next season, due to an email from the European Club Association (ECA) last year, according to the Telegraph.

The Premier League club were recently demoted from the competition to the Conference League, after UEFA deemed that Palace had breached the organisation’s multi-club ownership rules.

In June, John Textor, who also holds a minority share in French club Lyon, agreed to sell his 43 per cent stake to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, however this was after UEFA’s 1st March deadline for making changes to ownership structures.

However, clubs received an email from the ECA last October, which revealed that this deadline was flexible, and that teams would be permitted to resolve ownership issues by 31st May.

Palace’s appeal

Following the ruling, the English club submitted an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Palace are claiming that although Textor held a share in the club, he did not have a ‘decisive influence’.

Brentford have agreed to sell a minority stake to South African-born businessman Gary Lubner, and Hollywood film-maker Matthew Vaughn, the club have confirmed.

As reported by Sky News, the new investment values Brentford at around £400 million, and accounts for a stake of up to 25 per cent.

British businessman Matthew Benham, who first took over the West London side in 2012, will remain as the club’s majority shareholder. Last year, Brentford hired Rothschild in order to help them seek additional investment opportunities.

Targeting further growth

Brentford CEO, Jon Varney, said: “This is an exciting time for Brentford. The club has enjoyed significant success in recent years, and this investment will build on that progress to help us continue to challenge in both on-pitch performance and off-pitch commercial growth.

“It is vital to us that any new investors understand and reflect the values of our club. Since we first met Gary and Matthew, we have been aligned on how they can make a positive impact.

Atletico Madrid in talks over investment from Apollo, valuing club at up to €3 billion

US asset management company Apollo Global Management is in talks over a potential investment in Atletico Madrid, according to Financial Times.

The LaLiga club first entered discussions with Apollo, as Atletico seek funding for a €800 million redevelopment project for the area surrounding their Metropolitano Stadium home.

These talks have reportedly evolved to include the prospect of Apollo acquiring a stake in Atletico Holdco, the holding company that runs the club.

A potential investment would value Atletico between €2.5 billion and up to €3 billion.

Consider issuing new equity

According to Reuters, the club will provide around €200 million in funding for the Ciudad del Deporte project, with the remainder to be provided by private investors.

CEO Miguel Angel Gil Martin, who is currently the club’s majority shareholder with a 50.8 per cent stake, is uninterested in selling his share. However, the club are open to issuing new equity in order to facilitate new investment from Apollo.

Man City ink 10-year £1 billion extension of Puma kit deal

Manchester City have signed a 10-year extension of the club’s kit supplier partnership with Puma, which will run until the end of the 2034/35 season.

As reported by The Guardian, the renewal is worth £100 million annually, or £1 billion over its duration.

The German sportswear brand, which first partnered with the Premier League side in 2019, will continue to produce all kits for City’s men’s, women’s and academy teams.

Through their latest contract, City have now become the first English club to secure a £1 billion kit deal. This eclipses Manchester United’s decade-long, reported £900 million partnership extension with Adidas, which was signed in 2023.

Puma “seamlessly integrated” into the club

“We joined forces with Puma with the ambition to challenge ourselves and go beyond the expectations,” said Ferran Soriano, CEO of City Football Group (CFG). “We have achieved this and more over the last six seasons.

“Puma have seamlessly integrated into our organisation, and we’ve enjoyed many historic moments together, engaging fans globally. Today’s renewal and extension solidifies our relationship and projects it to an even brighter future.”

Mexican club Atlas FC up for sale, with owners seeking $400 million valuation

Orlegi Sports, the owner of Atlas FC, has put the Mexican club up for sale, according to a report from Bloomberg.

The multi-club organisation, which also owns Spanish club Real Sporting de Dijon and fellow Mexican outfit Club Santos Laguna, is seeking a valuation of $400 million.

In order to assist in the sales process, Orlegi is believed to have appointed Moelis & Company, ADS, and Weil, Gotshal & Manages LLP.

In a statement, Orlegi said: “We have initiated a process to explore a planned and structured transition in the operation of Atlas FC, with the goal of ensuring continued growth under a group that understands the club's relevance, context, and potential, both in sporting and social terms.”

Multi-club ownership in Mexico

Earlier this year, Liga MX side Club Leon were removed from the FIFA Club World Cup, due to the team sharing ownership with fellow Mexican club CF Pachuca.

Recently, Grupo Caliente agreed to sell Queretaro to a US group led by Marc Spiegel in a reported $120 million takeover. This move sees the sports betting company, which also owns Mexican team Club Tijuana, relinquish simultaneous control of two Liga MX clubs.

Spurs partner with former Manchester United executives to drive commercial growth

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy has hired Altius8, a new agency founded by former Manchester United executives, to help drive revenue for the North London club, as reported by The Telegraph.

The commercial advisory is being led by CEO Victoria Timpson, who left Old Trafford last summer after a 16-year tenure, most recently serving as CEO of alliances and partnerships.

Fellow founding partners Ali Edge, Florence Lafaye, and Tom Liston-Jones, also previously worked for United, and have assumed the roles of chief brand officer, managing director, and chief strategy officer respectively.

Plenty of industry experience

When at United, the aforementioned executives reportedly helped the club secure shirt sponsorship deals with TeamViewer and Snapdragon.

Altius8 has additionally recruited former Liverpool executive Andrew Markham, as well as Jon Naspe, former head of sales across EMEA at Manchester City.