The total revenue for Premier League clubs hit an all-time high of £6.3 billion ($8.5 billion, €7.5 billion) during the 2023/24 season, but rising discontent among fans and a decline in competitive balance are raising alarms, as highlighted by financial experts from Deloitte.
The increase in income for England’s top 20 clubs was driven by commercial revenues exceeding £2 billion for the first time, alongside matchday revenue surpassing £900 million.
English clubs maintain a significant financial edge over their European competitors.
La Liga, Spain’s premier league and the second-highest revenue-generating competition, managed just over half that total at €3.8 billion, with nearly 50 per cent of this revenue derived from giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Nonetheless, protests from fans have become increasingly common at Premier League grounds, spurred by rising ticket prices and the displacement of local fans in favour of tourists willing to pay more for an enhanced matchday experience.
“It is clear that the system within English football is under significant pressure,” remarked Tim Bridge, the lead partner at Deloitte’s Sports Business Group.
“The ongoing reports of fan dissatisfaction regarding ticket prices and accessibility highlight the ongoing struggle in today’s world to balance commercial growth with the fundamental role and position of a football club within the community: as a local asset.“
There is also uncertainty surrounding the potential impact of a new independent regulator for England’s top five leagues.
Moreover, for the past two seasons, every promoted club from the Championship has faced immediate relegation back to the lower tier.
“The financial consequences of the ‘yo-yo effect’ on clubs, including their expenditure and overall competitiveness, are critical issues that must be addressed to sustain high levels of investment across the system,” Bridge continued in Deloitte’s Annual Review of Football Finance.
Across Europe, the overall revenue for clubs rose by eight per cent in the 2023/24 season, totalling €38 billion, aided by increased commercial earnings and stadium upgrades.
The women’s football sector is also seeing considerable commercial growth, especially in England’s Women’s Super League (WSL).
Collective revenues in the WSL surged by 34 per cent to £65 million for the 2023/24 season, with projections indicating they could reach £100 million in the next season.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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