Real Madrid have issued a statement, expressing the club’s opposition to proposals for Villarreal’s LaLiga matchup against FC Barcelona to take place in Miami.

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) recently gave the green light for the fixture to be staged at Hard Rock Stadium, with its board of directors asking FIFA to initiate the process to allow this to go ahead.

In response, Madrid have moved to block the staging of the match outside of Spain, contacting FIFA, UEFA, and the Higher Sports Council, seeking the respective parties to not authorise the match.

Breaches ‘integrity’ of LaLiga

In the statement Real Madrid said: ‘The measure, implemented without prior information or consultation with the clubs participating in the competition, violates the essential principle of territorial reciprocity that governs double-round league competitions.

‘The integrity of the competition demands that all matches be played under the same conditions for all teams.

‘Any such modification must, in all cases, have the express and unanimous agreement of all clubs participating in the competition, in addition to strictly adhering to the national and international regulations governing the organisation of official competitions.’

Crystal Palace issue scathing response after losing CAS appeal

Crystal Palace have issued a scathing response after losing their appeal against UEFA in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), claiming ‘sporting merit is rendered meaningless’.

Earlier this week, the court in Lausanne upheld UEFA’s initial ruling to demote Palace from the Europa League to the Conference League, due to the involvement of the club’s former co-owner John Textor with Olympique Lyon.

In its verdict, the CAS found that Textor held ‘decisive influence’ over both clubs, despite selling his 43 per cent stake in the club to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson in June, which came after UEFA’s deadline of 1st March to notify the organisation of ownership changes.

Some clubs have a ‘unique privilege’

In a statement on Tuesday, Palace said: ‘The decision by UEFA and followed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport shows that sporting merit is rendered meaningless.

‘It appears that certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power.

‘While we respect the CAS tribunal members, the process is designed to severely restrict and, in our case, make it almost impossible to receive a fair hearing.’

UK Government ‘pushing’ for independent football regulator to be implemented by November

The implementation of English football’s new independent football regulator is being fast-tracked by the UK Government, according to The Athletic.

The UK Government is pushing for the independent regulator to be effective by 1st November, amid ongoing financial turmoil at clubs such as Sheffield Wednesday and Morecambe.

In July, plans for the regulator were given the green light, after the Football Governance Bill was approved by the House of Commons, and received Royal Assent to pass into UK law later that month.

Once operational, the new body will have the authority to sanction takeovers and place greater scrutiny on owners across the top five tiers of English men’s football.

Needed “as quickly as possible”

A spokesperson for the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) told The Athletic: The ongoing challenges at Morecambe, Sheffield Wednesday and many other clubs before them show exactly why the Football Governance Act was needed and why we acted to push the legislation forward in the face of opposition.

“The launch of the [independent regulator] is a priority. We recognise the need to move forward as quickly as possible whether that be implementing the required secondary legislation or appointing the regulator’s board.”

Sunderland to oppose plans for new housing project near Stadium of Light

Premier League club Sunderland are set to formally object to council plans to build 600 new apartments and townhouses behind the South Stand of the Stadium of Light, according to a report from The Guardian.

According to the club, the proposed new housing would prevent the future expansion of the 49,000-seat venue.

Although Sunderland recently submitted a pre-planning application for the renovation of the South Stand, and believe the new plans would remove a buffer zone, the council is arguing that there is still enough space for an expansion.

The Chairman reflects

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, chairman at Sunderland, said: “Unfortunately, Sunderland City Council has recently taken steps relating to the Sheepfolds development that could have catastrophic operational consequences on our club and, by extension our community.

He continued: “Later this week we will be submitting a formal objection against the proposals relating to the Sheepfolds and I encourage all city stakeholders to come together and join us in protecting the future of our football club and the city of Sunderland.”
 

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.”

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.

UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) has announced a series of sanctions for clubs relating to the 2024/25 season.

As part of these disciplinary measures, five clubs have been fined for breaching UEFA’s football earnings rule, including Chelsea, Barcelona, Lyon, Aston Villa, and HNK Hajduk Split.

Chelsea will pay a total fine of €80 million over four years, of which €20 million is unconditional, while LaLiga champions Barcelona will be fined €60 million over two years, with €15 million of that unconditional.

Meanwhile, Lyon, Villa, and Split have received fines of €50 million over four years, €20 million over three years, and €1.2 million over three years respectively.

Four teams breach UEFA’s squad cost rule

The CFCB also determined that the two Premier League clubs Chelsea and Villa - as well as Greek side Panathinaikos, and Turkish club Besiktas - had breached its squad cost rule. This prohibits teams from having a squad cost ratio greater than 80 per cent for 2024.

For breaching this rule, UEFA will fine Chelsea €11 million, Villa €6 million, Besiktas €900,000 and Panathinaikos €400,000.

UEFA has also revealed that Lyon has agreed to be excluded from all of its competitions for 2025/26, if the club’s relegation to Ligue 2 is upheld by France’s DNCG.

Lyon told to raise €200 million to overturn relegation

Olympique Lyon will be required to raise €200 million in order for the club to overturn their relegation to Ligue 2, according to L’Équipe.

Last month, France’s DNCG relegated Lyon to Ligue 2, due to their ongoing financial struggles, with the club launching an appeal against the ruling shortly thereafter.

The club will have to make up €100 million of that figure before the appeal, which is slated for 10th July.

Meeting with the DNCG

Lyon will need to prove that the remaining half will be entering the club’s accounts before the season is over.

The club’s newly appointed president, Michele Kang, and general manager Michael Gerlinger, will be in attendance at Lyon’s meeting with the DNCG later this week.

LFP selects media company for new Ligue 1 channel

LFP Media, the commercial subsidiary of France’s Professional Football League (LFP), has selected Mediawan as the production company for the new Ligue 1 channel, LFP has announced.

The OTT service is set to be operational before the start of the 2025/26 season, which kicks off on 15th August.

After the early termination of LFP’s reported €400 million a year domestic broadcast rights agreement with DAZN at the end of last season, the organisation opted to launch its own Ligue 1 channel.

LFP initiated its tender process in early June, seeking offers for production rights for the new service.

Partnership marks “great ambition”

Frédéric de Vincelles, Managing Director of Mediawan Sport, said: “We are proud to have been selected by LFP Media to contribute to the success of the new Ligue 1 platform.

“This partnership marks an important step for Mediawan Sport, and we will put all our editorial and creative expertise at the service of this great ambition.”

John Textor has filed a legal complaint against Iconic Sports Management

John Textor has formally contested reports claiming that he owes $93 million to Iconic Sports Management, due to a $75 million loan the American took out in 2022 to take over French club Olympique Lyon.

The former Crystal Palace co-owner has filed a legal complaint with the US District Court of the Southern District of Florida, alleging ‘securities fraud’ and ‘fraudulent misrepresentation’.

"This is an action for securities fraud and fraudulent misrepresentation in connection with the purchase of a put option by Defendants from Plaintiff," the complaint states.

Last month, the Financial Times reported that three hedge funders at Iconic Sports had contacted Textor, stating that he was obligated to buy back the shares in his company Eagle Football Holdings, which are valued at $93 million after interest, before a deadline of 2nd July.

An eventful summer for Textor

Recently, the 59-year-old agreed to sell his 43 per cent in Premier League side Crystal Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson. This move was expected to help the club comply with UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, as the team awaits a final ruling on whether they will be allowed to compete in next year’s Europa League.

Last week, Textor resigned from his leadership roles at Lyon, following the club’s relegation to Ligue 2 by France’s DNCG, amid their ongoing financial issues.

The US businessman, who will remain as CEO and owner of Eagle Football Holdings, was replaced by Michele Kang, who became the club’s new president.

Nottingham Forest name former Arsenal executive Edu as global head of football

Nottingham Forest have hired former Arsenal executive Edu Gaspar as the Premier League club’s global head of football, the club have confirmed.

The Brazilian joined Arsenal as technical director in 2019, and was promoted to sporting director in 2022, before leaving the club in November last year. Edu previously held various roles at Sao Paolo club Corinthians, as well as the Brazil national team.

In his new role, the 47-year-old will oversee all on-field operations, including recruitment, performance, squad strategy, and player development.

Excited to build “global football model”

“I’m truly excited about this new chapter and honoured by the trust placed in me,” said Edu Gaspar. “This project connects deeply with my values around innovation and long-term planning.

“I look forward to building a global football model that is competitive, sustainable, and aligned with our president’s ambition.”

Arsenal set to promote James Ellis to role of technical director

Arsenal are set to appoint the club’s head of recruitment, James Ellis, as their new technical director, The Athletic has reported.

Ellis first arrived in Arsenal in 2021 as a first team scout, before being promoted to his current role in 2023.

This follows the appointment of former Atletico Madrid sporting director, Andrea Berta, who joined Arsenal as the club’s new sporting director in March.

Berta looking to strengthen his team

After Berta’s appointment, the Italian was looking to expand his team, with former assistant sporting director Jason Alto leaving the club in May.

Prior to the decision to promote Ellis, Arsenal reportedly held talks with former Juventus executive Matteo Tognozzi for the position.

Hull City handed transfer embargo until 2027

Championship club Hull City have received a three-window transfer embargo from the EFL, running until January 2027, the club have revealed in a statement.

This sanction relates to outstanding payments of £1 million to Premier League club Aston Villa for the loan move of 22-year-old winger Louie Barry, who joined in January.

After the 2024/25 season, Hull and Villa had reportedly agreed to a £3.5 million transfer for Barry, however this stalled due to Hull’s inability to cover the loan payments.

Under the EFL’s ban, the club will be prohibited from signing players permanently or on loan.

Hull to appeal decision

In the statement, Hull City said: ‘We have received notification from the EFL that the club is subject to a transfer embargo and a three-window fee restriction with immediate effect.

‘We will appeal the three-window fee restriction and are confident of resolving the matter as soon as possible.’

Barcelona have secured €331.1 million in sponsorship revenue for the club’s Espai Barca project, which includes the renovation of their Spotify Camp Nou stadium, the club have stated.

This equates to €43.6 million in annual sponsorship revenue. Meanwhile, €44.6 million of the overall figure will come from specific partners of the project, which include Roca, Raventos-Codorniu, Ciments Molins, Carrier, Disano, Fever, EHEIM Möbel, Panasonic, and TK Elevator.

The LaLiga club's global partners with rights to Espai Barca assets, also contribute significantly towards the project. These include Spotify, which reportedly pays the club €5 million a year for naming rights to the Camp Nou, as well as the club’s kit supplier Nike, and Ambilight TV.

The project’s focal point is the redevelopment of the Camp Nou, which has been undergoing a reported €1.5 billion renovation since summer 2023, and is set to reopen in time for the 2025/26 season.

‘recurring and sustainable income’

In the statement Barcelona said: ‘The Espai Barça, with its comprehensive renovation and the creation of the new Spotify Camp Nou, is a strategic project whose main objective is to generate recurring and sustainable income in the long term.

‘This commitment involves a very different and much more powerful commercial offer than the traditional one, where the commercialisation of superior quality VIP boxes and seats, which will triple the current offer, is a key element.

Monza confirm takeover by US fund

AC Monza have been sold to US fund Beckett Layne Ventures, the Italian club have confirmed.

The American venture capital firm will initially acquire an 80 per cent stake in the Serie B club, prior to completing a full takeover.

Recently, Italian media reported that a takeover of Monza was close, with the deal valuing the team at approximately €30 million.

Beckett Layne Venture’s team of partners and advisors includes Mauro Baldissoni, a former executive at AS Roma.

20 per cent to be sold in the next year

Monza are currently owned by the family of former Italy prime minister Silvio Berlusconi, who purchased the club in 2018.

Under the takeover agreement, the Berlusconi family will retain a 20 per cent stake through their holding company Fininvest, which will be sold by June 2026.

RC Deportivo owner adds Portuguese club to growing portfolio

Juan Carlos Escotet, the owner of Spanish club RC Deportivo de la Coruña, has agreed to a takeover of Portuguese side, FC Penafiel, the club have announced.

The 90 per cent majority stake in the club, which was previously held by Gradual Score, has been acquired by the Escotet family’s Iberian Football Venture, SGPS, SA.

According to Spanish media, the agreement is worth €12 million, with the club confirming that this will be formalised in the coming days.

To “boost player development”

Representatives of Iberian Football Venture said in a statement: “This is an operation that aims to boost player development and be present in a market that is traditionally a training and talent-boosting market.

“We believe in projects with roots and projection. Our commitment is to take care of this bond with the city and its people, with the respect and responsibility that representing Penafiel implies.”

Borussia Dortmund and Puma ink ‘€400 million’ kit deal renewal

Borussia Dortmund have penned an early extension of the club’s longstanding kit supplier partnership with Puma, the club confirmed.

The latest renewal will run until at least 2034, and is worth between €350 million and €400 million over its duration, as per German sports publication Kicker.

The existing agreement, which was signed in 2019, was set to run until the end of the 2027/28 season. The German sportswear brand also holds a 5.32 per cent stake in the club.

Puma & Dortmund 'to write history together'

“With the early extension of our long-term partnership with BVB, we demonstrate how important the club and its values are to us, said Matthias Bäumer, chief commercial officer at PUMA.

“Every season, we are inspired by the club's incredible fan culture, the passion of the legendary Yellow Wall, and the team's attractive style of play. We look forward to continuing to write German football history together.”

Crystal Palace weighing up legal action over potential UEFA ruling

Crystal Palace are considering taking legal action over UEFA’s delayed decision regarding their eligibility for next year’s Europe League, according to BBC Sport.

The English club, which qualified for the competition following their FA Cup win, are still awaiting confirmation on whether they will be allowed to compete in the Europa League, due to the involvement of co-owner John Textor with Lyon.

Until the American recently agreed to sell his 43 per cent in the London club to US investor Woody Johnson last month, Textor had been an owner of both Palace and the French club. UEFA’s regulations prohibit individuals from having influence over multiple clubs simultaneously.

Last week, Lyon were provisionally relegated to Ligue 2, following a ruling from France’s DNCG.

UEFA’s delayed ruling

The decision on Palace from UEFA, which was originally set to be revealed on 27th June, has been postponed until after Lyon’s appeal against the DNCG has been resolved. If the team’s relegation is upheld, Lyon will lose their place in next year’s Europa League.

The club believe they have been unfairly penalised by UEFA, after missing the organisation’s 1st March deadline to make changes to their ownership structure.

Italian Government introduces new decree, allowing players to sign contracts of up to eight years

The Italian Government has introduced a new sports decree, allowing footballers to sign contracts for a duration of up to eight years.

This marks an increase on the previous five-year limit on contracts in Italian football, which had been in place since 1981.

The decree has taken provisional effect, having been published in the Official Journal, as reported by Calcio Finanza.

Decree to pass into law within 60 days

Although it is already in play, the decree must now be brought into legislation by the Government within 60 days.

The move comes as part of a plan to help clubs balance player costs over a longer period.

Valencia CF have secured €322 million in new financing to complete the LaLiga club’s Nou Mestalla stadium.

That figure comprises a €237 million bond issue, which the club say will be repaid over the next 28 years, as well as a five-year, €85 million loan.

According to Valencia, the loan will be paid off through proceeds from the selling of the land where their old stadium stands.

The Spanish club expect the new venue, which will have a capacity of more than 70,000, to be complete in 2027.

A “historic milestone”

Kiat Lim, president of Valencia, said: “This transaction marks a historic milestone for Valencia CF.

“Securing this financing gives us the green light to make the Nou Mestalla a reality, a world-class stadium that will drive the club's growth for generations to come.

“It is the clearest expression of our long-term commitment to Valencia and a reflection of the trust the club inspires today in global financial markets. With this agreement, we are not just building a stadium, we are building the future of Valencia CF.”

Official: Inter finalise €350 million refinancing to repay €415 million bond

Inter Milan have confirmed the full repayment of the Italian club’s €400 million bond, which was due in 2027.

Inter said in a statement: ‘Inter Media and Communication S.p.A., a subsidiary of [Inter Milan] and the Inter’s ownership, funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, have agreed on long-term financing for the club.

‘The financing, totalling €350million, is from the US private placement of senior secured notes maturing in 2030 supported by seasoned institutional investors.’

Earlier this month, the Serie A side announced plans to pay off the bond, which had most recently been refinanced in 2022, under the club’s previous ownership, Chinese company Suning Holdings Group.

Inter's new bond

The club owed their bondholders €415 million with total interest on the bond.

Calcio Finanza projects the interest rate of the new bond to be at a fixed gross annual rate of 4.52 per cent, compared to the previous bond's rate of 6.75 per cent.

Serie A considers selling stake in international media rights business

Serie A is considering selling a share in its international media rights business, according to Bloomberg.

The Italian top flight has contacted private equity firms over potential investment into the company.

Although Serie A has held initial discussions with interested firms, these are at an ‘early stage’.

Sold international rights for €700 million

As reported by Reuters earlier the month, the Italian Government is looking to remove the ‘no single buyer rule’, which prevents Serie A from selling its domestic broadcast rights to one single buyer.

Serie A’s international rights were previously sold for round €700 million for the three-year period ending 2024.

Sparda-Bank acquires 7.5 per cent share in German club HSV

Klaus-Michael Kühne, the largest shareholder at German club Hamburger SV, has agreed to sell around 7.5 per cent of his shares in the club to Sparda-Bank, HSV have announced.

Following the sale of shares in the newly promoted Bundesliga club, Kühne Holding has acquired naming rights to HSV’s Volksparkstadion home, signing a three-year deal that will run until 2028.

According to German sports magazine Kicker, the new naming rights pact is worth €4 million annually.

Kühne remains HSV’s largest shareholder, with a 13.5 per cent stake in the club, followed by Sparda-Bank. Meanwhile Hamburg’s main shirt sponsor, Hanse Merkur, has the third largest share, with 6.8 per cent stake in the Hamburg club.

CFO reflects on latest investment

Last week, HSV’s CFO Eric Huwer declared the club debt free for the first time in their history at a general meeting on 21st June.

In light of the minority stake agreement, Huwer said: “This deal reflects the strong commitment from our shareholder group and highlights our path of organic growth.

“From my point of view, this is a true win-win-win situation that makes us stronger.”

Kylian Mbappe’s legal claim against PSG over ‘moral harassment’ prompts investigation

A judicial investigation has been opened following a complaint from Kylian Mbappe, who is accusing his former club PSG of moral harassment, according to French media.

The lawsuit, which was filed on 16th May, centres around summer 2023, when the France star was removed from PSG’s squad during a contractual dispute. Mbappe alleges that the club were attempting to coerce him into signing a new deal.

Mbappe is the latest player to resort to legal action against PSG, after the club’s women’s team’s former player Kheira Hamraoui made a similar complaint earlier this year.

Mbappe’s dispute with PSG

The 26-year-old has been embroiled in an ongoing legal battle with his former team in recent months, following his departure to Real Madrid last summer.

In May, the French champions demanded €98 million from their former talisman, alleging that he had agreed to give up money owed at the end of his contract in order to help support the club financially.

Previously, Mbappe had a €55 million seizure order placed on the club’s accounts due to alleged unpaid wages and bonuses.

Leicester City facing uncertainty amid King Power financial situation

Leicester City’s ownership is currently facing uncertainty, over the status of Thai travel retail company, King Power, The Telegraph reports.

Since 2010, the English club has been owned by the Srivaddhanaprabha family, which controls King Power.

However, the company is currently facing an uncertain future, after CEO Nitinai Sirismatthakarn revealed it had been seeking talks over the cancellation of three airport contracts with the Airports of Thailand (AOT).

King Power’s partnerships with the AOT is subsequently now under a 60-day review, ahead of a final decision.

Leicester’s financial difficulties

Following the Midlands club’s relegation to the Championship at the end of the 2024/25 season, Leicester are facing a points deduction after being charged by the Premier League for three alleged breaches of its profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

The English top flight recently updated its PSR regulations, granting the league jurisdiction over clubs that had been relegated. This previously prevented the Premier League from sanctioning Leicester for charges relating to the 2022/23 campaign.

Spurs sue Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS for £11.1 million

Tottenham Hotspur are suing Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS for £11.1 million for an alleged breach of contract, The Telegraph has reported.

The Premier League club initially signed a five-year deal in 2022 that designated the INEOS Grenadier as Spurs’ 4x4 partner. That agreement was worth £17.5 million over its duration.

However, the partnership was terminated in March, with Spurs claiming that the company did not pay their instalment due in December 2024, which was reportedly worth more than £5 million. The club are also arguing that an inflation figure of almost £500,000 due last August was also not paid.

INEOS’ legal troubles

Spurs are now seeking a minimum of £5.275 million in damages, in the latest legal blow to INEOS.

In recent months, the UK-based petrochemical company ended previous sponsorship deals with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and Sir ben Ainslie’s Britannica sailing team. INEOS would later reach a settlement with NZR in April, after the termination of their contract, which was reportedly worth £8.7 million annually.

Former Real Madrid and Wales player Gareth Bale is fronting a US consortium’s proposed takeover of English club Plymouth Argyle, as reported by The Telegraph.

The 35-year-old is part of a consortium that comprises a private equity group, as well as members of the Storch family.

While initial talks between the group and League One club have reportedly taken place, the discussions have yet to progress further.

Seeking additional investment

In March, Plymouth’s majority shareholder Simon Hallett agreed to a deal in principle to sell a minority stake, however this fell through last month.

The club was relegated from the Championship at the end of the 2024/25 season, as the team target a swift return to England’s second tier.

John Textor lists Eagle Football Holdings for IPO

Lyon owner and Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor has listed his company Eagle Football Holdings for an initial public offering (IPO) in the US, according to a report from Bloomberg.

In recent weeks, the American has been linked with selling his 43 per cent stake in Crustal Palace, with reports last week revealing that Palace had received three separate offers for his share.

Eagle Football has made a confidential S-1 filing, although the number of shares and their value have not been disclosed. In November 2024, Textor first announced plans for an IPO, with a company valuation of $2 billion.

Palace’s ongoing UEFA saga

By winning the FA Cup, Crystal Palace qualified for next season’s Europa League campaign, however the club’s status in the competition is currently unclear, due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations. This is because of Textor’s involvement as the majority owner of Lyon.

UEFA’s rules state that no individual can have influence over two clubs in the same competition, meaning Palace could be in breach of the regulations. Textor’s recent offer to place his Palace share into a blind trust was rejected by European football’s governing body, after he missed the 1st March deadline, prompting him to look to sell his stake.

FC Barcelona set to eclipse €1 billion in revenue by 2027

Barcelona are on course to reach €1.1 billion in annual revenue by 2027, a forecast by Morningstar DBRS has revealed. According to the Toronto-headquartered agency, the LaLiga champions’ credit rating has improved from ‘stable’ to positive’.

This is due the club’s ‘improved financial performance’ over the last two years, as well as their projected return to the Spotify Camp Nou for the 2025/26 season, following the stadium’s reported €1.5 billion renovation.

The credit rating provider is also forecasting Barcelona to generate a gross operating profit of €90 million for 2025, and revealed that the club had a debt of around €1.5 billion in 2023.

"Expactation of further improvement"

Morningstar said: ‘The change in trend to positive from stable is supported by [Barcelona’s] improved financial performance over the last two seasons along with the expectation of further improvement thanks to higher revenues because of the club's return to the Spotify Camp Nou as well as effective cost controls carried by the club and supported by [UEFA] and LaLiga sustainability frameworks.

'Morningstar DBRS expects the club to deliver positive free cash flow and show deleveraging capacity.’

Germany’s Federal Cartel Office: Exemptions from 50+1 rules are no longer possible

Germany’s Federal Cartel Office has revealed its assessment of the 50+1 ownership rule within German football.

The 50+1 rule states that members hold a 50 per cent share in a club, as well as one more vote, granting them voting rights.

Although the Federal Cartel Office found no fundamental issues with the German Football League’s (DFL) rule, it has deemed that there can be no exceptions to the rule going forward.

The office’s CEO, Andreas Bundt, has called on the DFL to take three measures, including the removal of exceptions from the 50+1 rule. Although clubs such as Bayer Leverkusen and VfL Wolfsburg had previously been exempt from the rule, this can no longer be allowed to happen.

Additional measures include ensuring that the values of the 50+1 rule also apply to the DFL’s own voting process, after former Hannover managing director Martin Kind voted in favour of DFL investment, going against instructions from the club.

DFL responds to assessment

Hans-Joachim Watzke, spokesperson for the DFL’s executive board, said: “The DFL Executive Board will continue to advocate for the protection and continued existence of the rule. We will discuss the Federal Cartel Office's assessment in detail following the review that has been ongoing since 2018 within the DFL Executive Board.

“One thing is clear: the entire league association, the DFL, will have to find solutions to jointly safeguard and strengthen the rule.”

Plans for new governance bill in French football opposed by some Ligue 1 clubs

The new governance bill proposed by the French senate last week has caused tension among some Ligue 1 clubs, L’Équipe has reported. Some clubs within France’s top flight are unhappy with the proposal, which would see media rights divide up more equally between teams in comparison to the current structure.

Having been adopted by the French senate, the bill is still yet to be approved by France’s National Assembly.
The French Football Federation (FFF) is seeking to reform the top two tiers of men’s professional football - Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 - which would see clubs become shareholders in a new entity that would oversee the two leagues, in place of the Professional Football League (LFP).

Last week, the French senate confirmed that FFF reserves the right to dissolve LFP if the two organisations cannot come to an agreement.

FFF president also draws criticism

FFF president Philippe Diallo has also been a source of criticism among some clubs, due to his perceived closeness to French senators.

Some teams reportedly believe that Diallo is responsible for the proposal for a more equal split in broadcast rights revenue among clubs.

WSL to expand to 14 clubs from 2026/27

The Women’s Super League (WSL) will expand to 14 teams from the 2026/27 season, the league has announced.

This follows a club vote during a WSL Football shareholders meeting on Monday, with the proposal now subject to approval from England’s Football Association (FA).

From next season, there will be no automatic relegation from WSL 1 to WSL 2. Conversely, the top two placed teams within the second tier will earn automatic promotion, while the third-placed team in WSL 2 will enter a relegation/promotion playoff with the club that finished 12th in WSL 1.

Earlier this year, WSL Football (then known as Women’s Professional Leagues Limited), which governs the top two tiers of English women’s football, was reportedly considering scrapping relegation between 2026 and 2030, in order to expand both WSL 1 and WSL 2 to 16 teams each. However, these plans were ultimately abandoned, following significant backlash from fans.

Help the game “reach its potential”

Nikki Doucet, CEO of WSL Football, said: “Over the past few months, WSL Football has led a thorough and robust, consultative process backed by research and analysis which explored multiple options that could drive the game forward and help it reach its potential.

“Our priority was to find a route that would benefit the whole women’s game pyramid, and we believe this next evolution of women’s professional football will raise minimum standards, create distinction and incentivise investment across the board.”

VfB Stuttgart open legal proceedings against former shirt sponsor

VfB Stuttgart 1893 are taking legal action against their former main shirt sponsor Winamax, the German club have confirmed.

In the statement, Stuttgart announced that they have now filed a lawsuit against Winamax with the civil chamber of the Stuttgart regional court, after the French betting brand failed to make payments despite ‘numerous reminders’ from the Bundesliga club.

Stuttgart said: ‘The filing was necessary and unavoidable as the partner had not made any payments, despite all out-of-court efforts by VfB Stuttgart 1893 AG. VfB Stuttgart 1893 AG is claiming the partner’s contractual payments from the contractual relationship ending on 30th June 2025.

€2.5 million in missed payments

The agreement, which was signed in 2023, and was set to run until the end of the 2025/26 season, was recently terminated due to unpaid fees.

Winamax owed Stuttgart around €2.5 million in missed payments.