Dolf Segaar, a Dutch lawyer leading a class action against FIFA, has called for a Europe-wide collective bargaining agreement on transfers, according to a report by The Guardian, arguing that players and clubs should agree clear contract termination mechanisms at the start of employment.

Segaar said football should move away from repeated legal disputes and instead negotiate transfer rules collectively between players’ unions and clubs’ associations, providing greater clarity and legal certainty.

“I believe that players and clubs should negotiate at the start of any employment agreement the mechanism if you want to terminate your contract,” Segaar said. “So the idea could be to have a collective bargaining agreement on a European level with the players’ unions and the clubs’ associations… It would be clear to anyone what exactly the transfer fee should be if you leave.”

Diarra ruling compared to Bosman

Maheta Molango, chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association, said football had previously underestimated the consequences of major legal rulings, pointing to the 1995 Bosman case.

Molango said the Lassana Diarra judgment, which found aspects of FIFA’s transfer rules infringed a player’s freedom of movement, could have a “similar or bigger” long-term impact, warning that the industry risked repeating past mistakes if it failed to adapt quickly.

Juventus shares jump 18 per cent after Tether's takeover bid

Juventus’ share price surged more than 18 per cent on Monday following a rejected takeover proposal from stablecoin company Tether, despite Exor confirming it has no intention of selling the club.

The Serie A club’s shares closed up 18.51 per cent at €2.60 on the Milan stock exchange. Juventus’ market capitalisation rose from around €915 million to approximately €1.08 billion.

The move followed disclosure of an offer submitted by Tether to Exor late on Friday, after markets had closed. Exor, the Agnelli-Elkann family holding company, controls 65.4 per cent of Juventus.

Exor rules out sale

Tether’s proposal was priced at €2.66 per share for Exor’s stake, valuing Juventus at about €1.1 billion and representing a premium of 20.74 per cent to the official closing price on 11 December 2025. Had the deal gone ahead, Tether would have been required to launch a mandatory tender offer for the remaining free float at the same price.

Tether also said it was prepared to make around €1 billion available to strengthen the first team and develop additional business activities linked to the club.

On Saturday, Exor formally rejected the offer. Chief executive John Elkann said Juventus “is not for sale”, adding that the holding company would continue to support the club’s long-term future.

Spanish Football Federation approve €403m budget for 2026

The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have approved a budget of €403 million for 2026, including €39 million earmarked for investment, following a general assembly held on Monday.

The federation also confirmed that the Copa del Rey final will generate an average of €3.9 million per year after Seville’s La Cartuja stadium was secured as host venue for the 2025–2028 cycle.

In addition, the RFEF said television income will rise by a further €4.4 million this season compared with last year, driven in part by changes to its broadcast arrangements.

Broadcast rights and institutional relations

The federation highlighted an improved relationship with LaLiga, which will again manage the Copa del Rey’s audiovisual rights on an exclusive basis and partner with the RFEF on the new broadcast model for Primera Federación.

RFEF president Rafael Louzán told the assembly that the organisation was entering a new phase of institutional cooperation, contrasting it with previous periods of legal and administrative conflict with other football bodies.

Louzán also said domestic broadcast revenue for the Spanish Super Cup has grown by 70 per cent, with Movistar Plus+ retaining the rights, while international revenue from the competition has increased by 27 per cent.

Chelsea have been dealt a blow to the club’s potential new stadium plans, after the Hammersmith and Fulham Council approved an alternative proposal at a site in Earls Court, West London.

Earlier this year, UK media revealed that the Premier League club were considering two options: the redevelopment of Stamford Bridge, or a move to a new site in Earls Court.

On Wednesday however, the council gave the green light to plans put forward by the Earls Court Development Centre (ECDC) to build a new housing and retail development at the site.

In a statement, the ECDC said: “The 44-acre, £10 billion masterplan will transform central London’s largest cleared development site.

“This first milestone paves the way for ECDC to work with partners across the public and private sectors to move forwards with plans to start on site as soon as possible.”

Chelsea consider all options

As reported by The Telegraph, the club are still weighing up all potential options regarding their stadium plans, with co-controlling owner Todd Boehly believed to be in favour of a move to Earls Court.

Although this marks a significant development, the ECDC’s proposals will still need to be approved by the Kensington and Chelsea council in order to come to fruition.
 

Former Tottenham owner investigated amid allegations of betting on matches

The English Football Association (FA) investigated former Tottenham Hotspur owner Joe Lewis, according to Bloomberg.

The FA conducted a review into allegations that Lewis had placed bets on football matches in 2022. This would be in breach of the FA’s regulations, which prohibit owners from directly placing wagers on games.

Lewis, who was previously the majority owner of Spurs’ ownership group ENIC, was the majority owner of the Premier League club between 1991 and 2022. His stake was subsequently passed down to the Lewis Family Trust in October of that year.

Ultimately, the FA decided against taking any further action against the 88-year-old.

Lewis pardoned by Trump

In 2023, Lewis was arrested on charges of insider trading in the US, later pleading guilty and receiving a sentence of three years of probation alongside a $5 million fine in 2024.

Earlier this month however, he was pardoned by US president Donald Trump.
 

Women's Super League approached over potential new investment

The Women's Super League (WSL) has received an initial approach from a potential new investor, Bloomberg has reported.

On Thursday, England’s top flight women’s league informed its 12 clubs that it was focused on long-term growth strategies, and has postponed any decision on a potential agreement.

Bloomberg says that the WSL’s board has appointed advisors to oversee a formal process, and could potentially revisit the offer at a later time.

WSL weighing up long-term plans

Further details regarding the investment, including the identity of the investor, and whether this would be a loan or a stake, are not known.

The WSL’s board has already appointed Goldman Sachs and Deloitte, as it weighs up its long-term strategy options.

Mike Ashley has lodged a £20 million offer to buy Sheffield Wednesday, with Telegraph Sport reporting that the former Newcastle United owner has formally notified the club’s administrators of his bid.

Administrators Begbies Traynor have asked all interested parties to show £50 million in proof of funds to access the data room, with two American consortiums also regarded as serious contenders. The administrators aim to name a preferred bidder by 5 December.

Ashley has been assessing the situation since Wednesday entered administration last month and has now made a concrete proposal. The Sports Direct owner has previously explored moves for Derby County, Coventry City and Reading.

Rival interest examined

Telegraph Sport also reports that Sheffield United’s owners, COH Sports, made an inquiry during the process, with representatives for COH Sports among around 80 parties to contact administrators. Dealmaking sources have since downplayed prospects of further approaches from COH, and any idea of the two Sheffield clubs being owned by the same group has been dismissed.

Wednesday are bottom of the Championship and were beaten by Sheffield United in Sunday’s derby. The club has already received a 12-point deduction for entering administration and faces additional potential EFL sanctions over alleged financial breaches.

Belgian Pro League seeks urgent arbitration to enforce DAZN contract

The Belgian Pro League has filed a request for urgent arbitration with Belgian dispute resolution centre Cepani seeking to compel DAZN to honour its broadcasting contract with clubs.

In its filing, the league asked that the UK-based streaming service be required to meet its contractual obligations until a substantive ruling is issued.

The Pro League said the measure is intended to ensure production and broadcasts of league competitions continue, adding that it expects DAZN to comply while awaiting the arbitrator’s decision.

DAZN this week unilaterally terminated its agreement to show Belgian football after failing in recent months to resell the rights to telecom operators, leaving matches available only through its own app.

Contract dispute escalates

The Pro League submitted its request on Wednesday, according to its statement.

DAZN has not offered further public comment beyond its contract termination earlier in the week.

Justice approves Levante’s €71 million debt restructuring plan

Levante UD have secured judicial approval for a €71 million debt restructuring plan, allowing the club to proceed with measures proposed by new majority shareholder José Danvila, according to a club statement.

The plan aims to cut the club’s financial debt by more than 50 per cent over eight years, with liabilities currently standing at €127 million as of 30 June 2025. Levante said the reduction will rely mainly on player sales and broadcasting income, with staying in LaLiga’s top division viewed as financially significant.

The court decision also rules that the restructuring cannot be challenged through insolvency clawback actions and that creditors cannot request the reversal of the approved measures. The judgment is final and cannot be appealed, the club added.

Payment order confirmed

Levante said the ruling validates a payment schedule beginning with privileged creditors, including EDR and Tifosy, followed by ordinary creditors and then subordinated creditors.

The club noted that Danvila’s €14 million claim has been extinguished through capitalisation, while the remaining debt is restructured over ten years.

Schalke to repay 2021/26 and 2022/27 bonds early after new issue

FC Schalke 04 will fully redeem their 2021/26 and 2022/27 corporate bonds ahead of schedule after calling all remaining notes following the placement of a €90 million 2025/2030 bond, the club announced in a statement yesterday.

The club said that outstanding volumes had fallen to €6.51 million on the 2021/26 bond and €15.11 million on the 2022/2027 bond after investors were offered an exchange into the new issue.

Schalke have now exercised the call option under the bond terms and will repay both tranches in full on 29 December. The club said the new bond provides the funds to complete the early refinancing.

The 2021/26 bond will be redeemed at 100.5 per cent of nominal plus accrued interest, while the 2022/27 bond will be repaid at 101.5 per cent plus accrued interest.

Links early repayment to wider financing plan

Finance board member Christina Rühl-Hamers said the refinancing supports Schalke’s longer-term planning and strengthens the club’s financial flexibility. She said Schalke would use the additional headroom to optimise their financial structure.

She added that the bond forms a central part of the club’s overall financing strategy, including the planned reduction of secured financial liabilities.

Leicester City will face a Premier League disciplinary hearing next week as the club contests three fresh charges linked to alleged profitability and sustainability rule breaches, according to The Telegraph.

The Championship club are accused of exceeding permitted losses for the 2023/24 season, missing the 31 December deadline for submitting annual accounts, and failing to provide full and prompt assistance during the league’s enquiries.

If proven, the charges could lead to sanctions ranging from a points deduction to a fine or transfer restrictions, with the process handled by an independent commission.

Financial losses exceed PSR limits

The club recorded more than £200 million in combined losses over the three-year period to 30 June 2024, above the £81 million limit permitted under PSR regulations. That included a record £92.5 million loss in the 12 months to May 2022 and a further £89.5 million the following year, attributed to relegation-related costs, the dismissal of Brendan Rodgers, and lower-than-expected league revenue.

A verdict is not expected until the end of this year at the earliest, and any appeals could extend proceedings into the second half of the season.

Sevilla FC post fifth straight loss as 2024/25 deficit reaches €54m

Sevilla FC posted a €54.1 million loss for 2024/25, a 34 per cent improvement year-on-year but their fifth consecutive deficit. The club’s accumulated losses since 2020/21 now stand at €221 million, with their board indicating that further cuts to the wage bill are needed to restore financial sustainability.

The board said the multi-year plan already under way aims to reduce overall costs, particularly first-team spending, which continues to weigh heavily on results. The wage bill and squad amortisation totalled €117.5 million, exceeding the club’s operating revenue despite a 36 per cent annual reduction.

Transfer profits, once worth more than €50 million a season before the pandemic, have fallen sharply, contributing only €6 million across the past two campaigns. The absence of European football has also limited matchday income, which remained flat at €6.2 million, while membership and season-ticket revenue fell 7 per cent to €14.4 million.

Commercial rebound

Commercial income rose 20 per cent to €28.9 million, helped by Midea’s arrival as main shirt sponsor and a switch from Castore to Adidas as technical partner.

Non-sporting staff costs fell 2 per cent to €20.9 million, while other operating expenses decreased 27 per cent to €25.7 million.

Arsenal and other Premier League clubs reconsider stance as salary cap plan falters

Arsenal FC are among several Premier League clubs reassessing their support for a proposed salary cap, placing the “anchoring” model in jeopardy ahead of Friday’s scheduled vote, according to The Times. The plan would limit spending to five times the revenue earned by the club finishing bottom of the league.

Arsenal had previously been a key backer, but their position has shifted following the departure of former executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis in September. Up to eight clubs are now understood to hold reservations, raising doubts over whether the vote will proceed. 

Any change to Premier League regulations requires the backing of 14 clubs.

PFA and agents threaten legal action

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has threatened to take the league to court and will brief club captains this week on the potential impact on player earnings. 

Three major agencies, CAA Base, CAA Stellar and Key Sports Management, have also instructed lawyers to challenge the plans.

Libero maintains refusal to pay €40 million owed to FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona’s legal dispute with Libero Football Finance has escalated after the German fund reiterated it will not pay the €40 million linked to its entry into Barça Produccions, which was later absorbed into Barça Media, according to El Economista.

Libero has argued that its contractual obligations became impossible to meet once Barça Produccions was merged into Bridgeburg Invest, the company into which it had initially agreed to invest. The fund claims the merger was carried out without its consent and breached the agreed duty of cooperation.

The company says its position is “juridically solid and procedurally promising”, citing the civil law principle of impossibility, alleged breaches of fiduciary duty and what it describes as a structural failure of the contractual basis. Barcelona have not publicly responded, and the case remains before the courts, though Libero says it is open to a negotiated settlement.

Additional legal action

Libero has also filed a separate claim against the investor expected to provide the original €40 million, seeking damages. Barcelona partly addressed the €40 million shortfall through a deal with catering company Aramark, which paid €25 million for a 6 per cent stake in the relevant subsidiary.

Kylian Mbappé, the Real Madrid player and France national team captain, has filed a lawsuit against his former club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), claiming €263 million in damages, as reported by Le Monde.

This legal action stems from a dispute regarding the treatment of Mbappé by PSG and the status of his contract at the beginning of the 2023/24 season.

The player alleges that he was marginalised and made to train with players PSG intended to sell after he declined to sign a new contract with the club.

PSG's countersuit

In response to Mbappé's lawsuit, PSG has filed a countersuit against the player, seeking €240 million. This amount is based on a failed €300 million transfer to Saudi club Al Hilal, which Mbappé reportedly refused.

Mbappé's discontent with PSG began when he was excluded from the club's pre-season tour of Asia in 2023 and missed the first game of the season. However, he was later reinstated to the team following discussions with PSG. After spending seven seasons with PSG, Mbappé transferred to Real Madrid on a free transfer last summer.

FC Barcelona finally announces return to Camp Nou

FC Barcelona have announced their return to the Spotify Camp Nou for the upcoming La Liga match against Athletic Club this Saturday.

The City Council has granted approval for 45,401 fans to attend games at the stadium, which recently reopened to the public during an open training session attended by approximately 23,000 fans.

Barcelona had been playing their home games at Montjuic, a stadium with a capacity of 55,926 and located about 4km from Camp Nou, for the entirety of the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. The renovated Camp Nou will eventually accommodate 105,000 spectators.

Several delays

The club had initially planned a limited capacity return to Camp Nou in November 2024 but later projected a comeback in the second half of the 2024/25 season. Despite targeting the Joan Gamper Trophy on August 10 for their first game back at Camp Nou, they had to reverse this plan due to ongoing construction work. Consequently, their first two home matches of the 2025-26 season were played at Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Barcelona and construction firm Limak have set June 2026 as the completion date for the ground, with current project costs at €900 million.

Player agencies threaten legal action over Premier League salary cap

Three prominent player agencies in English football, CAA Base, CAA Stellar, and Key Sports Management, are threatening to sue the Premier League over its plans to introduce a new salary cap, accordring to The Times.

These agencies represent numerous players, including Cole Palmer and Jack Grealish, and have engaged a top London law firm to address their concerns to the Premier League's legal department.

According to the agencies, the Association of Football Agents has not been consulted on the proposed salary cap, which they argue would violate competition law. The Premier League is considering financial reforms that include squad cost ratio rules and anchoring, which would limit spending to five times the amount awarded in prize money and broadcast revenue to the lowest-finishing club.

Players also warn of legal action

The Professional Footballers’ Association has also threatened legal action and plans to meet with Premier League captains due to concerns about the impact on salaries compared to European rivals.

In their letter to the Premier League, the agents demand the withdrawal of these financial regulation changes. They argue that implementing these rules would breach the Competition Act 1998 and constitute an unlawful restraint of trade by capping spending on players, staff, transfers, and agents.

Apple and MLS shorten their media rights deal to 2029 and revise the payment structure

Apple's deal with Major League Soccer (MLS), initially set for a 10-year duration, has been revised to conclude at the end of the 2028-29 season, Sportico reports. This adjustment shortens the original agreement by three and a half years.

MLS will receive 
200 million for the 2026 season and 107.5 million for a shortened "sprint" season from February to May 2027. Following this period, the league is set to earn $275 million annually for the last two seasons of the contract. These final seasons will coincide with MLS's transition to a summer-to-spring schedule.

The renegotiated terms will result in MLS receiving approximately $50 million more than what would have been paid under the initial deal structure, which included progressively increasing payments. The updated agreement also provides Apple with greater flexibility, offering an earlier exit option and the possibility to renew the contract if desired.

Commissioner confirms

MLS Commissioner Don Garber acknowledged the altered terms during an event in Palm Beach, Florida, stating, "Yes, we’ll have different economics," and confirming that "The term will change. The financials will change. And all that’s very positive for us."

This change means that MLS will re-enter the market sooner than anticipated, presenting a significant chance to elevate its media rights fees. However, it also places pressure on the league to enhance its offerings and perform strongly on Apple's platform before the new 2029 expiration date.

Valencia report €2.2 million surplus as Real Betis extend profitable run for a third straight year

Valencia CF have announced a consolidated profit for the 2024/25 season, with a pre-tax surplus of €2.2 million and a turnover of €103.7 million, despite a 3 per cent year-on-year decrease. The LaLiga club managed to maintain their revenue above €100 million even without participating in European competitions, according to a statement from the club.

The slight dip in ordinary turnover is attributed to a drop in audiovisual income due to lower league standings in recent seasons and the repayment of CVC funds. The operating result reached €23.8 million, a 49 per cent increase from the previous year.

On the expenditure side, operating costs (excluding amortisation), which rose to €114.5 million, were impacted by factors such as the dismissal of the previous first-team technical staff and costs associated with covering long-term injuries.

Betis post profit for third consecutive year

Meanwhile, Real Betis recorded their third consecutive profitable season in 2024/25, with annual profits of €4.6 million and revenues increasing by 9 per cent to €207 million. Betis' financial success was driven by their performance in the UEFA Conference League and player transfers.

Ticketing income reached €31 million, UEFA contributions amounted to €17.4 million, and commercial revenues climbed to €37 million, all contributing to Betis' robust financial results for the season.

Bill Foley’s Black Knight group set to take full control of FC Lorient in major ownership overhaul

FC Lorient is on the verge of a significant ownership change, as current president Loïc Féry plans to integrate his personal stake into the Black Knight Football Club (BKFC), fronted by Bill Foley, making the American consortium the sole shareholder of the French club. This development was revealed in an interview with Féry published on Lorient's official website.

The process began in late 2022 when Bill Foley and BKFC became minority shareholders. Since then, Lorient has seen a top-ten finish in Ligue 1 and immediate promotion from Ligue 2 after relegation. Féry believes this move will provide Lorient with solid foundations within a group that boasts over $500 million in equity.

By merging his stake with BKFC, Féry will become one of the leading shareholders behind Foley, aligning Lorient with other clubs like AFC Bournemouth and Moreirense FC in a multi-club network.

Swift transition

This announcement comes despite Féry's previous assurance that no further changes in capital structure would occur before 2026. Nonetheless, he expresses confidence that all parties are aligned and anticipates finalising the transition swiftly.

Lorient, managed by Olivier Pantaloni, currently sits 17th in Ligue 1, level on points with Nantes and Brest in a tight relegation battle.

The Premier League's proposal to introduce a salary cap is facing opposition from both the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), and some clubs that are prepared to legally challenge the move, according to BBC Sport.

The proposed top-to-bottom anchoring model (TBA), which would limit club spending on player wages, agents, and transfer fees to five times the income of the league's bottom club, is set for a vote by top-flight clubs next week.

PFA chief executive Maheta Molango has expressed strong opposition to the salary cap, stating on BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "You cannot artificially cap someone's ability to make a living." He emphasised that any measures around financial sustainability cannot be imposed unilaterally and must be negotiated.

Manchester clubs opposed

The current financial control system in place, known as profit and sustainability rules (PSR), allows clubs to incur losses of up to £105m over three years. However, it has been criticised for restricting investment. The Premier League is also considering a squad cost ratio (SCR), which aligns with UEFA's rules allowing clubs to spend up to 70 per cent of their revenues on squad costs.

Last year, 16 Premier League clubs voted for detailed analysis of TBA, with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa opposing. Critics of TBA argue it could harm the Premier League's competitiveness in Europe and disincentivize growth. Under current proposals, breaches of the new rules could result in severe penalties, including point deductions.

Olympique Lyon reports 7 per cent revenue increase in first quarter of 2025/26 season

Olympique Lyon have reported a 7 per cent increase in revenue for the first quarter of the 2025-2026 season, with earnings reaching €70.8 million. This growth was largely fueled by the commercial sector, notably boosted by a new sponsorship deal with the Republic of Congo, as detailed in the club's financial report.

The partnership with the African nation contributed an additional €1 million to commercial revenues, which saw a 15 per cent increase to €7.7 million.

Player sales and loans continue to be a vital source of income for Lyon, controlled by Eagle Football. The club earned €40.7 million from these transactions in the first quarter, marking a 37 per cent increase from the same period in the previous season.

Falling broadcast income

This rise in commercial revenue and player sales income helped to compensate for declines in other areas such as matchday and television revenue. Ticket sales fell by 15 per cent to €6.2 million, while income from audiovisual rights dropped by 9 per cent to €8.3 million. A significant factor in the reduced revenue was the early termination of the DAZN-LFP contract in June 2025, which resulted in €1.8 million for the French league, one million less than the previous year.

Lyon also highlighted that they were informed by the league that "the first two years of operating the Ligue 1+ platform will be financially challenging, with a significant decrease in revenue" but expected a gradual increase thereafter.

Schalke 04 increases corporate bond offering from €50 to €75 million

FC Schalke 04 has increased its corporate bond offering from the initial €50 million to €75 million due to strong demand, as confirmed by the club in an official statement.

The German second division team's bond, set for the period 2025-2030, received approval for the increase from Luxembourg's Financial Sector Supervisory Commission (CSSF), with notification also sent to the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin).

The club's statement highlighted the significant interest from professional investors, which "underscores the great confidence and credibility" Schalke 04 enjoys as it works towards financial stabilisation.

This expansion in the bond offering will allow Schalke to allocate more funds and offer a better exchange rate to all interested investors, depending on the final volume of subscriptions. The private placement, not part of the public offering, could potentially raise the issuance volume beyond €75 million.

Optimism

Christina Rühl-Hamers, FC Schalke 04's Director of Finance, Personnel, and Legal Affairs, expressed optimism about exceeding both the initial rescue goal for the 2021-2026 bond and partially refinancing the 2022-2027 bonds. She stated that surpassing these objectives provides Schalke 04 with a strong strategic option.

The 2025-2030 bond, with a fixed annual interest rate of 6.50 per cent and a maturity date of November 26, 2030, can be subscribed to until November 18, 2025. It includes a Bundesliga bonus of 1.50 per cent as a one-time payment upon Schalke's promotion up to and including the 2029-2030 season.

AC Milan and Inter Milan have completed the acquisition of the San Siro and its surrounding area, the two clubs confirmed.

Under the agreement, the Milan clubs will demolish the iconic 75,817-seat venue, which will subsequently be replaced by a new 71,500-capacity stadium at the same site.

In a joint statement, the Milan clubs revealed that they had signed the deed of sale with the Municipality of Milan. Although further terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the deal is worth €197 million plus VAT, according to Calcio e Finanza.

A new “world-class stadium”

The construction of the new stadium and broader regeneration project marks a “new chapter for the city of Milan and both clubs”.

The teams have given architecture firms Foster + Partners and MANICA the brief of designing the new “world-class stadium”.
 

Hoffenheim dismiss CEO and CFO

TSG 1899 Hoffenheim have dismissed CEO Markus Schütz and CFO Frank Briel, the German club announced.

In a statement, Hoffenheim said the dismissal of the two executives “with immediate effect” came as “the result of intensive discussions with all parties involved, which culminated in a mutual agreement to end the collaboration.”

Despite the two departures, the club say that their current management team, which comprises managing director of sport Andreas Schicker and managing director of marketing Tim Jost, remains fully functional.

Although further details were not disclosed, Barbara Bender is set to become the Bundesliga club’s new CFO, according to Kicker.

Club focusing on “action on the pitch”

Jörg Albrecht, chairman of Hoffenheim, said: “It’s important to keep the big picture in mind during turbulent times. That also means focusing on what defines us: the action on the pitch.

“Our current success proves us right: the path we’ve chosen is the right one. We will continue on this path with composure, determination, and open communication.”
 

Getafe in advanced negotiations over takeover by Qatar-based investment company

Qatar-based company, JTA International Investment Holding, is in advanced negotiations to take over LaLiga club Getafe, as reported by Marca.

JTA has held talks with current Getafe owner Angel Torres for several months, with a deal now close to being complete.

A potential agreement could include main shirt sponsorship, as well as naming rights to the club’s Coliseum Stadium home, while Torres would remain as Getafe’s president.

A change in ownership

Earlier this year, Getafe were linked to a potential takeover by Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group (FSG), who completed positive due diligence on the team back in September, according to the Daily Mail.

Torres previously stated his intention to step down from his role after the renovation of Coliseum Stadium is complete, with the project set to be finished by the end of 2027.
 

INEOS and Tottenham reach out-of-court settlement following legal dispute

UK petrochemicals firm INEOS has reached an out-of-court settlement with Tottenham Hotspur to end its legal dispute with the Premier League club, according to The Telegraph.

In 2022, the Sir Jim Ratcliffe-owned company entered a five-year partnership with Spurs, which was worth £17.5 million, and designated the INEOS Grenadier as the club’s 4x4 partner.

That agreement was terminated in March, with Tottenham subsequently initiating legal action against INEOS, seeking £11 million in damages.

An ongoing legal battle

INEOS would then counter sue the club in September, alleging that Spurs had held talks with competitor Audi back in the summer of 2023, when Harry Kane transferred to Bayern Munich, which would constitute a breach of contract.

While terms of the settlement are not known, it is believed to be worth around half of the £11 million figure that Spurs had been seeking.
 

$250 million women’s sports fund Monarch Collective adds Viktoria Berlin to portfolio

Monarch Collective, a dedicated women’s sports private equity fund, has acquired a 38 per cent stake in FC Viktoria Berlin.

The investment into the German second tier side marks Monarch’s first in a European club.

The $250 million fund, which was launched in 2023 by Kara Nortman and Jasmine Robinson, also has stakes in the NWSL’s Angel City and San Diego Wave, as well as the league’s Boston Legacy expansion team, which will join NWSL in 2026.

Viktoria, which was founded in 2022 with an all-female ownership group, secured promotion to the 2. Frauen-Bundesliga earlier this year.

"A unique blend of creativity and ambition”

In a statement, Monarch Collective said: “As the first US investment into German professional women’s football, and Monarch’s first partnership outside of the US, this represents a bridge, sharing best practices and innovative approaches across continents.

“With FC Viktoria Berlin, we see a unique blend of creativity and ambition. We see a values-aligned founder group that will execute on their vision for what women’s football can mean for their community, their country, and the world.”
 

Data Spotlight: Ten games end Pradé's seven-year efficiency record at Fiorentina

ACF Fiorentina has dismissed sporting director Daniele Pradé and head coach Stefano Pioli following a poor start to the season - just four points from nine matches. Technical director Roberto Goretti has been promoted to sporting director and faces the immediate task of appointing a new head coach.

The decision to remove Pradé after seven years comes despite a record that compares favourably with other major Italian clubs. Data from Off The Pitch benchmarking Fiorentina against SS Lazio, AS Roma, and Atalanta from 2019/20 through 2024/25 shows Pradé outperformed both Roman clubs across key metrics while building a squad that reached two UEFA Conference League finals.

Fiorentina spent €1.43 million per league point under Pradé - less than Lazio (€1.53 million) and significantly below Roma (€2.75 million). Only Atalanta, widely regarded as Serie A's best-run club, achieved better efficiency in the comparison.

Squad value development reinforces the picture. Over the past 36 months, Fiorentina's squad value increased 34 per cent according to Off The Pitch's Player Valuation - closely matching Atalanta's 33 per cent growth and far exceeding Lazio's 3 per cent and Roma's 7 per cent decline. In the transfer market, Pradé recorded net spending of only €33.8 million, while both Lazio and Roma each registered deficits approaching €100 million.

Beyond the spreadsheets, Pradé delivered tangible European success - two Conference League finals in consecutive seasons, even if silverware remained elusive.

Ten-match winless start

The dismissal highlights football's brutal short-termism. Despite seven years of efficient squad building, competitive European runs, and outperforming major rivals on key metrics, a ten-match winless start proved decisive. For ownership groups, recent form weighs heavier than sustained performance - regardless of how early in the season the crisis emerges.

Goretti inherits a squad that the data suggests is well-constructed and appreciating in value. Whether that foundation survives the pressure of a relegation battle will depend on results in the coming weeks, not the efficiency metrics that built it.

Real Madrid are seeking “substantial damages” from UEFA for blocking the proposed European Super League.

This follows the Madrid Provincial Court’s dismissal of appeals from UEFA, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and LaLiga on Wednesday, reaffirming the EU Court of Justice’s (ECJ) ruling that UEFA had abused its dominant position.

Previously, the ECJ ruled that FIFA and UEFA’s actions in prohibiting clubs and players from participating in other leagues were “unlawful” in 2023.

The club’s response

In a statement, Real Madrid said: “This judgment paves the way for substantial claims to compensate for the damages suffered by the club.

Stating that “no agreement had been reached” with UEFA over reforms, the club said it will “continue working for the good of global football and fans, while requesting compensation from UEFA for the substantial damages it has suffered.”

Madrid are now the only remaining team, left in the Super League, after Juventus and more recently Barcelona abandoned the project. When the breakaway league first launched as a 12-team competition in 2021, nine of the original clubs quickly withdrew from the project amid backlash from fans.

Eagle Football Group postpones annual financial statements announcement for 2024/25

Eagle Football Group has announced the postponement of its annual financial statements for the 2024/25 season.The group which is the company behind Olympique Lyon was set to reveal its latest statements on 28th October.

The delay is primarily due to the ongoing completion of an external review of "flows between the company and its related parties."

In a statement, Eagle Football said the decision was made by its board of directors, with the results set to be published no later than on 30th November.

Expecting “very significant loss”

“This postponement does not call into question the confidence of management in the company's ability to achieve its objectives for the 2025/2026 season and to meet its commitments to institutions, key suppliers, agents, and partners 1,” Eagle Football said.

As announced in July 2025, given the high level of operating expenses, the change in scope, and non-recurring revenues recorded in the 2023/2024 fiscal year, the group anticipates a very significant loss for the 2024/2025 financial year.

FIFA & DAZN to relaunch FIFA+ platform in 2026

FIFA and DAZN have announced the relaunch of the FIFA+ direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform in 2026.

Dubbed as the ‘Global Home of Football’, the channel will feature live and on-demand matches, as well as highlights, a weekly analysis show, documentary content, and interviews.

Relaunching ahead of next year’s World Cup after initially launching without DAZN in 2022, FIFA+ will be available with both free and premium options.

A “game-changing” partnership

Shay Segev, CEO of DAZN Group, said: “From next year, millions of fans around the world will be able to enjoy even more top-tier football content for free on FIFA+ on DAZN.

“This launch is a game-changing step forward for DAZN and FIFA to combine their scale, technology, content and partnerships for the benefit of fans and partners across the globe.”

Premier League chairwomen re-election to receive wide support from clubs

Premier League chairwoman Alison Britain is expected to receive wide support from clubs, as she seeks to be re-elected at an upcoming shareholders’ meeting on 21st November, The Times has reported.

The 60-year-old, who first became the English top flight’s chairwoman in 2023 on an initial three-year term, played a leading role in bringing the 115 charges against Manchester City in February of that year.

During the meeting, clubs are due to decide on scrapping the current PSR, in favour of either squad-cost ratio rules (SCR), or anchoring regulations that would limit teams’ spending to five times the bottom placed club’s prize money and broadcast revenue.

Backing of clubs and CEO

A number of clubs, as well as Premier League CEO Richard Masters, are set to support Britain’s re-election.

Meanwhile, the Premier League’s nominations committee - which includes independent director Dharmash Mistry and Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan - has formally recommended that club’s re-elect her next month.
 

The Premier League has issued clubs with a 25-page draft of proposed replacements for its profit and sustainability rules (PSR), ahead of a vote next month, according to The Times.

At a shareholders’ meeting on 21st November, clubs are set to decide whether to abandon PSR in favour of squad-cost ratio rules (SCR), or potential ‘anchoring’ rules that would limit spending to within five times the prize money and broadcast revenue of the 20th placed team.

The Premier League has revealed potential sanctions for breaches of the regulations, which would incur a minimum deduction of six points, with an additional point docked for every £6.5 million overspent.

In the upcoming meeting, clubs are set to vote on the SCR, which would limit spending to within 85 per cent of each team’s revenue, as well as anchoring and sustainability rules linked to the new independent football regulator (IFR), which is expected to come into action next month.

Concerns over new proposals

The English top flight’s draft on the proposed rules is likely to be updated ahead of November’s meeting, promoting concerns over clubs being immediately found to have breached the regulations.

In addition, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) is weighing up legal action, amid fears over the potential impact of anchoring rules on player wages.
 

Fabio Paratici makes Tottenham return as co-sporting director alongside Johan Lange

Tottenham Hotspur have named Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange as the club’s new sporting directors, as part of a restructuring of their leadership team.

Paratici makes his return to North London, following a 30-month ban from all football activity, which was imposed by FIFA in March 2023. This was due to the alleged inflation of transfer fees during his tenure at Juventus.

The 53-year-old previously served as Spurs’ managing director from June 2021 to April 2023, when he stepped down from his role after losing his appeal against the suspension. The ban, which was then lightened slightly to allow the Italian to continue to work within football in a reduced capacity, expired this summer.

Lange meanwhile has been the club’s technical director since November 2023, after previous spells at Aston Villa and FC Copenhagen.

CEO hails new appointments

“This is an important evolution in how we operate. The remit of a Sporting Director today is vast, and by uniting two exceptional leaders in Johan and Fabio, we’re setting the foundations for sustained success,” said Vinai Venkatesham, CEO of Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs will shortly begin their recruitment for a new director of football operations.
 

AC Milan ink €30 million a year partnership renewal with Emirates

AC Milan have signed an extension of the club’s principal partnership with Emirates.

The renewal is worth €30 million annually, and will run for three to five years, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, meaning the deal could reach €150 million in total over its duration.

Emirates first partnered with the Serie A club in 2007, becoming their main partner in 2010, replacing Austrian sports betting company Bwin. Under the extension, which includes ‘official airline partner’ designation, Emirates’ branding will continue to feature on the front of Milan’s kits.

"Ambition and vision"

“The renewal of our partnership with Emirates stands as testimony to one of the most historic and admired collaborations in football, a shared journey that looks to the future with ambition and vision,” said Maikel Oettle, chief commercial officer at AC Milan.

“Emirates will continue to stand by our side, helping us strengthen the Club’s solid foundations and, together, connect new generations of fans around the world while creating unique experiences that go far beyond the pitch.”

The Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR) are likely to remain in place, following a quarterly shareholders’ meeting on Tuesday, according to The Guardian.

During the meeting, clubs discussed two main proposals for new spending rules, which could potentially replace PSR.

The first of these proposals was the introduction of a squad-cost ratio, which would limit teams’ spending on player wages to 85 per cent of their revenue, in a similar format to UEFA’s regulations.

Club also discussed the possibility of anchoring, which would see spending for all teams limited to the revenue of the last-placed club, in order to protect the English top flight’s competitive balance. This has reportedly been met with opposition from both Manchester United and Manchester City previously.

No changes expected before next season

Tuesday’s meeting ended without significant progress on introducing new financial regulations.

It is unlikely that any changes will be implemented before the 2026/27 campaign, with no time frame as-of-yet in place on voting on the new proposed changes.

Aston Villa set to name Roberto Olabe as president of football operations

Aston Villa are set to appoint Roberto Olabe as the club’s new president of football operations, replacing Monchi, according to UK media.

The 57-year-old previously served as sporting director at Spanish club Real Sociedad for seven years, prior to his departure at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Monchi’s departure follows Villa’s slow start to the season, with the club currently placed 18th in the Premier League table.

A successful tenure at Sociedad

During his tenure in Sociedad, he helped curate talent such as Alexander Isak, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi.
In 2020, Sociedad secured their first trophy in 33 years, when the club won the Copa del Rey.

Olabe had also received interest from Real Madrid and Arsenal, with his arrival at Villa set to be announced imminently.

Bayer Leverkusen and VfL Wolfsburg parent companies invited to review of 50+1 rule

The parent companies of Bundesliga clubs Bayer Leverkusen and VfL Wolfsburg have been invited to join the German Federal Cartel Office’s review of the 50+1 rule, Kicker has reported.

Earlier this year, Bayer AG and Volkswagen, the parent companies of the two teams, requested to be involved in the review.

In June, the Cartel Office sought stricter regulations from the German Football League (DFL), as it deemed the 50+1 rule to still be fundamentally legal. First introduced in 1998, the rule stipulates that members retain the majority of clubs’ voting rights.

However, the office questioned some exceptions to the rule within German football.

Exceptions to the rule

Leverkusen and Wolfsburg are both among clubs considered to be exceptions in the Bundesliga, as they are owned by corporations as opposed to club members, with the Cartel Office aiming to alleviate any potential advantages of their ownership structures.

The two corporations have been given until the end of October to submit their statements.

AC Milan and Inter Milan appoint Foster + Parters & Manica to design new stadium

AC Milan and Inter Milan have appointed Foster + Partners and Manica to design the new Milan stadium, the clubs announced.

The agreement is subject to the Milan clubs’ acquisition of the San Siro site. Last week, Mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala revealed the sale had been agreed upon, and would be subject to final approval from the Milan City Council.

Under their proposal, AC Milan and Inter Milan are aiming to demolish the current San Siro stadium, before constructing a new 71,500-seat venue.

Foster + Partners’ portfolio includes Wembley Stadium, as well as the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, which was build ahead of the men’s FIFA World Cup in 2022.

A significant step

“The collaboration with Foster + Partners, one of the most renowned architectural firms globally, and Manica, already recognised as a leader in the field of sports venues, reaffirms the clubs' strong commitment to delivering a stadium that meets the highest standards of innovation, comfort, and sustainability, and will also stand out as an architectural landmark,” AC Milan and Inter Milan said in a joint statement.

“This significant step in the development of the future stadium represents a strategic investment for the future and a tangible sign of commitment to the city of Milan, its history, and its cultural, architectural, and sporting heritage.”

Spanish club CF Intercity approves €60 million investment

Fourth tier Spanish club CF Intercity have approved a €60 million investment from Alpha Blue Ocean (ABO), which will help fund the team’s new stadium.

During an extraordinary general meeting, Intercity’s board of directors approved he issuance of bonds, which will be convertible into club shares.

ABO currently holds a 20.39 per cent stake in the Alicante-based team, making the investment company the club’s largest shareholder.

Alicante Park project

The fresh funding will go towards the construction of Alicante Park, the club’s new sports and leisure complex, which will include a 20,000 seat stadium.

Also during the shareholders meeting, Intercity approved the appointment of Chris Bueno as a director.

USL secures strategic investment from BellTower Partners

The United Soccer League (USL) has announced a strategic investment from BellTower Partners.

As part of the agreement, BellTower CEO Kewsong Lee will become a vice chair of USL.

In February, USL unveiled plans to launch a new top division in 2027, which will be on the same level as MLS. The organisation additionally revealed that it would become the first US professional sports league to introduce promotion and relegation for both its men’s and women’s divisions.

Lee on USL investment

“The USL has built something rare in American sports an independent, multi-tier league system of scale that is both high-growth and impactful,” Kewsong Lee said.

“We see durable demand for authentic, community-focused clubs; a favourable environment for public-private partnerships; and significant upside for all stakeholders as the USL continues to expand its men’s and women’s pathways.”