Club Ownership

With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both central figures in this evolving landscape, a new chapter appears to be unfolding behind the scenes at the highest level of the game. The future of club ownership in Saudi soccer is shifting quickly, and the ripple effects are already being felt around some of the league’s biggest names. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both central figures in this evolving landscape, a new chapter appears to be unfolding behind the scenes at the highest level of the game. The turning point came when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) made a decisive move regarding one of its flagship clubs. Al-Hilal has now seen its ownership structure transformed after a majority stake was sold to Kingdom Holding Company, a firm led by a prominent Saudi investor. The deal valued the club at approximately $373 million, signaling both confidence in the league’s growth and a willingness to shift toward private ownership. In a statement, the new ownership emphasized the broader vision behind the move. “Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people,” the statement read. “This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development.” The message was clear: soccer in Saudi Arabia is entering a new phase, one driven by strategic investment and long-term sustainability. Stepping Into a New Chapter of Glory 💙 pic.twitter.com/zya4Au7XRB — AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) April 16, 2026 Cristiano Ronaldo’s club could be next While the spotlight initially fell on Karim Benzema’s new environment, attention quickly turned toward Cristiano Ronaldo’s club. Behind the scenes, discussions have reportedly begun over a similar restructuring process. According to Sportksanet, it has emerged that there is a plan to sell up to 50% of Al-Nassr’s shares to external investors, including a mix of international companies and Saudi businessmen. This potential move would mark another major shift in how top clubs in the league are operated and financed. Such a transition could redefine the club’s future, especially given Ronaldo’s global influence and the commercial weight he brings. Why PIF is changing strategy The reasoning behind these decisions lies in a wider economic vision, as per journalist Abdulkarim Al-Zamil. PIF has played a central role in transforming the Saudi Pro League, injecting funds that helped attract global stars and elevate the competition’s profile. PIF and Kingdom Holding Company’s representatives arrange deal over Al Hilal. Now, the focus appears to be on maximizing returns and redistributing capital within the domestic economy, while encouraging private sector involvement. In an official explanation, the fund outlined its long-term intentions. “The sale aligns with PIF’s strategy to maximise returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy,” the statement noted. “PIF is unlocking opportunities to make a transformative impact in the Saudi sports sector and deliver positive, long-term results.” What does it mean for the league? These ownership changes could have far-reaching consequences for the league as a whole. Clubs transitioning to private ownership may gain greater flexibility in decision-making, particularly in transfers and commercial partnerships. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al Nassr At the same time, the presence of global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo ensures that any structural change will be closely watched. His influence extends beyond the pitch, making Al-Nassr one of the most visible clubs in world soccer. For Al-Hilal, now linked with Karim Benzema, the new ownership could open doors to different investment strategies and partnerships. That, in turn, may reshape competition within the league as clubs adapt to new financial realities.

UE Cornella have announced that Lionel Messi has become the club’s new owner. Lionel Messi continues to take steps toward remaining involved in soccer once his professional playing career comes to an end. His latest move in that direction is the acquisition of a fifth-division club in Spain, Unio Esportiva Cornella, the third club he is involved in. “The Argentine footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Leo Messi, has finalized the acquisition of UE Cornella,” the club announced in a statement published Thursday on their official website. “With this operation, Messi strengthens his close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalunya.” UE Cornella are a club founded in 1951 and based in the autonomous community of Catalunya, around 50 miles from Barcelona. They currently compete in the Tercera RFEF (Spain’s fifth division) and sit third in Group V, five points behind leaders Manresa. “The arrival of Leo Messi opens a new chapter in the club’s history, with the aim of driving its sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its structure, and continuing to invest in talent. The project includes a long-term vision, with a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and local identity,” the statement added. Lionel Messi of Inter Miami How many clubs is Lionel Messi involved in? While continuing his professional career — since 2023 with Inter Miami — Lionel Messi has also begun exploring a role that was previously unfamiliar to him: club ownership and management. On more than one occasion, he has said this side of soccer appeals to him more than coaching, as he looks ahead to life after retirement. Last year, he joined his friend and teammate Luis Suarez in a project of this kind in Uruguay, becoming co-founders and co-owners of Deportivo LSM. The club debuted in the country’s fourth division and, in its first season — 2025 — earned promotion, beginning what looks like a promising path forward. In addition, the Messi family also founded a club in Argentina: Leones de Rosario FC, based in Leo’s hometown. The project began in 2015 with a focus on developing young talent, but this year took its first professional step by joining Primera C, Argentina’s fourth division. Messi and Ronaldo follow similar paths The news of Lionel Messi’s acquisition of UE Cornella comes just months after Cristiano Ronaldo made a similar move. The 41-year-old forward has owned a 25% stake in Almeria since February of this year, another club competing in the lower tiers of Spanish soccer. Almeria, unlike UE Cornella, are a more established club with greater tradition: they have spent a total of seven seasons in La Liga, most recently in 2024. Messi’s new club, meanwhile, have yet to play in Spain’s top division.

Il campione argentino investe in una società di calcio.

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The WSL is back and Lianne Sanderson is joined by talkSPORT's Uma Gurav to unpack the weekend's results - are Chelsea still the ones to beat? Are Arsenal title contenders? And can Everton break into the top four? London City Lionesses goalkeeper, Sophie Hillyerd, joins the show to reflect on their opening 4-1 defeat to Arsenal. Sophie is the only player remaining from pre-takeover days and offers insight into what Michelle Kang is like as club owner. Plus NBC host, Rebecca Lowe, reflects on her broadcasting career and the growth of the women’s game. And Sam Biccarino, the host of the podcast Decoding the WSL, breaks down the stats from the weekend! For more talkSPORT women's football content, head to @talkSPORTWomensFootball on YouTube! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. After Chelsea's Club World Cup win at the weekend, Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by author Nick Purewal, who discusses his book Sanctioned: The Inside Story of the Sale of Chelsea FC about the sanctioning of Roman Abramovich and the sale of Chelsea FC. Here we give a unique insight into the unprecedented chaos surrounding Chelsea during their 2022 sale, including behind-the-scenes details of Abramovich's involvement in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, a near-poisoning event, and the tumultuous sale process of the club that led to current owner Todd Boehly buying the club. 00:00 Introduction 04:51 Abramovich's Role and the War's Impact 07:35 The Rapid Downfall and Sanctions 16:04 Abramovich's Involvement in Peace Talks 19:28 The Poisoning Incident 26:10 Skepticism and Vindication 29:52 Legal Confusion and Government Challenges 31:47 Chelsea's Struggles Under Sanctions 35:23 The High-Stakes Sale Process 38:48 The Bidding War Heats Up 44:26 Jim Ratcliffe's Last-Minute Bid 50:10 The Aftermath and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the continuing issues at Sheffield Wednesday brought on by owner Dejphon Chansiri, we kick off with a worrying chat about football club ownership and to what extent we can fix such a severe structural problem in English football. Marcus and Luke also get David to reassure all the Sunderland fans listening by confirming that he thinks they’ll stay in the Premier League next season and a listener offers Marcus the chance to swap Italy’s results from the last ten years with England’s. Speaking of, an email caught our eye that argued for all international tournaments to be played in the winter - spicy stuff! Please fill out Stak's listener survey! It'll help us learn more about the content you love so we can bring you even more - you'll also be entered into a competition to win one of five PlayStation 5's! Click here: https://bit.ly/staksurvey2025 Find us on Bluesky, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and email us here: [email protected]. Sign up to the Football Ramble Patreon for ad-free shows, extended Wednesday episodes, access to our Discord and early access to tickets and merch for just $5 per month: https://www.patreon.com/footballramble. ***Please take the time to rate us on your podcast app. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** The Football Ramble, the original and best football podcast. Brand new podcasts every single weekday throughout the Premier League season and every day throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Kenny Dalglish, Chris Sutton and Alan Shearer are among the guests as Kelly Cates looks back on Blackburn's famous title win in 1995. Midfielder Mark Atkins explains how the club was rejuvenated by owner Jack Walker's investment, while Rob Coar, then club chairman, gives the view from the boardroom. And is it fair to say the club bought the title? Football finance expert Kieran Maguire goes through the figures. [This is re-versioned episode from the Football Daily’s archive. It was first published on the 26th March 2025]

Jamie Carragher, Paul Scholes, and the returning Gary Neville are back with another unmissable episode of The Overlap Fan Debate brought to you by Sky Bet. We are joined by passionate fans from across the country, plus financial expert Kieran Maguire and George Elek from the Not Top Twenty Podcast. We dive into the biggest talking points in football finance right now including financial distribution and sustainability in the game as well as the issue of ticket pricing. We look at the new Premier League TV deal and its impact on clubs’ revenues, as well as football community concerns, including the commercialisation of football and its effect on loyal supporters. Finally, we get an insider view on the ownership and management changes at Salford City, discussing the challenges and ambitions of making the club financially sustainable. This show is sponsored by Trainline. With Trainline, you won't score cheaper same-day tickets anywhere else, or we'll refund the difference! Book now at https://www.thetrainline.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Kenny Dalglish, Chris Sutton and Alan Shearer are among the guests as Kelly Cates looks back on Blackburn's famous title win in 1995. Midfielder Mark Atkins explains how the club was rejuvenated by owner Jack Walker's investment, while Rob Coar, then club chairman, gives the view from the boardroom. And is it fair to say the club bought the title? Football finance expert Kieran Maguire goes through the figures. TIMECODES 10:00 Mark Atkins on Blackburn's redevelopment; 15:20 Alan Shearer on his famous partnership with Chris Sutton; 29:00 Sir Kenny Dalglish's reflections as manager; 50:00 Robert Coar's view from the boardroom 01:05:00 Kieran Maguire on Blackburn's finances that season.

Rog sits down with AFC Bournemouth owner Bill Foley for an in-depth discussion on the Cherries' impressive rise in the Premier League. Foley provides exclusive insight into the inner workings of the club, sharing how Bournemouth, despite its size, competes with Europe’s elite. He also delves into his ownership philosophy, revealing the strategies that have driven success for both the Cherries and the NHL’s Las Vegas Golden Knights. "Running the Game" is a new series from Men in Blazers where we speak to the brightest minds working behind-the-scenes at some of the biggest clubs in the world. We go deep on the business of football, boardroom strategy, and culture building to learn all it takes to run an elite football club today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On a very special This Week in Wrexham, Rog is joined by Hollywood A-Lister and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds. Ryan breaks down his footballing journey, from self-admitted football know-nothing to owner of the one of the fastest rising clubs in English football. Then, Ryan explains why his goals for Wrexham are about more than making the Premier League, as well as what goes on in the What's App group chat between him and Birmingham City owner Tom Brady. This Week in Wrexham comes from the Men in Blazers media network and is presented by our great friends of the pod STōK Cold Brew Coffee. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to The Overlap Fan Debate, brought to you by Sky Bet. Jamie Carragher is joined by Paul Scholes and special guest and Financial Expert Kieran Maguire, as well as some of the biggest fan channels across the country. This week’s episode is all about the Price of Football! We kick things off with Kieran Maguire giving us a run down on the financial situation at Premier League clubs, including clubs trying to make money out of fans by raising ticket prices. We'll get views on Manchester United under INEOS, American ownership, plus, is the disconnection between fans and clubs in the Premier League at its worst? Finally, Kieran Maguire answers club questions, including what will happen with the Manchester City charges? If you’re enjoying the podcast, please hit subscribe to never miss an episode, and please leave us a five-star review to help others discover the show. Thank you for listening! 00:00 - Promo 00:44 - Introduction 01:05 - Kieran Maguire on the financial situation at Premier League clubs 05:00 - Paul Scholes on ticket prices at Salford 06:21 - Liverpool Fan Gareth Roberts on the exploitation of football fans 13:50 - Adam McKola on INEOS at Manchester United 20:15 - Everton fan Baz on Everton’s new stadium and ticket prices 25:14 - Crystal Palace fan Dan Cook (HLTCO) on Palace not upping ticket prices 26:22 - Nieve Petruzziello (StuntPegg) on the disconnection from fans and their clubs 30:53 - Manchester City v Salford in the FA Cup 38:10 - Kieran Maguire on the finances of the FA Cup and where the money goes 40:30 - Debate on the FA Cup replays being scrapped 50:04 - Kieran Maguire answers club questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of It Was What It Was, Miguel Delaney discusses his new book: States of Play: How Sportswashing Took Over Football. Jonathan, Rob and Miguel assess how mega-rich investors and state-backed owners have transformed clubs and competitions around the world. The trio explain the impact of sportswashing on our modern game - where nations and corporations have used football to enhance their public image and gain global influence. Join us for a compelling insight into football's new landscape - and find out what the future could hold for clubs, players, and fans. If you’re enjoying the podcast, please hit subscribe to never miss an episode, and consider leaving us a five-star review to help others discover the show. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wrexham is back! And on the latest episode of This Week in Wrexham, Rog is joined by the co-creator of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Mythic Quest, and co-owner of Wrexham AFC Rob McElhenney to break down the gauntlet of a season that lies ahead in League One. Rob goes deep on his expectations for the upcoming season, how his relationship with co-owner Ryan Reynolds has changed since taking over Wrexham, and the emotional toll that club ownership has taken on him. This Week in Wrexham from the Men in Blazers media network and presented by our great friends of the pod STōK Cold Brew Coffee. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Fan Debate is back, brought to you by Sky Bet, with Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher alongside The Traitors star Harry Clark and some of the biggest fan channels in England. As the Premier League season comes into its final stretch the only place to start is the title race as league leaders Liverpool host treble-winners Manchester City on Sunday. Is it pivotal for the title race and could free-scoring Arsenal potentially capitalise on Saturday evening? 4th and 5th place are still up for grabs, but who will miss out on Europe between Aston Villa, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur? And why are season ticket prices so high? It’s been a disappointing season for Chelsea, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace; why has it gone so wrong for the three clubs and what can they expect from now until the end of the campaign? Everton have had to deal with a points deduction as they battle avoid the drop, but could Luton Town define the odds and stay up in their first Premier League season? Finally we talk about club ownership and the impact of the financial fair play’s profit and sustainability rules. We are nearing the 1 million subscription mark so please do not forget to hit subscribe to not miss another Fan Debate or Stick to Football episode. We’ll be back next week with a Traitors themed special… 👀 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There was a sense of inevitability at St. James' Park on Saturday when Kevin De Bruyne entered the arena. So why can't Newcastle United, the-so-called “richest club in the world” match Manchester City spending power and have their own selection of superstars to call on from the bench? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh and Mark Critchley to analyse. Produced by Guy Clarke Additional Production by Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a pretty good start to the season for Inter Milan. Ticking along nicely in the Champions League and top of Serie A as they chase silverware for a fourth consecutive season… Behind the scenes however, the picture isn’t quite as rosy. Despite increased revenues, profits are low and debts are sky-high. Add to that an outdated stadium, an ageing squad and some high-profile departures. So, is it enough for them to just be successful on the pitch and if a takeover is the solution, are they, or any Italian club, attractive enough to buy? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Senior football news reporter Matt Slater & our Italian football writer James Horncastle. Produced by Adonis Pratsides and Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead ** • Get Coors Light delivered straight to your door with Drizly or Instacart by going to coorslight.com/athleticfootball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back with another episode of Glory Days of Gold, the East Fife and Scottish football podcast recorded across two continents.From the high of last week's big victory to the depths of despair at an embarrassing Scottish Cup defeat to a non-league side in one of the worst results in the club's 120 year history. Who'd be an East Fife fan?How bad was it? How bad are things in general? Can Greig McDonald turn things around or does there need to be a change at the top and maybe even more than that?The guys discuss this and more in the latest episode, and we're joined by Ian Lowson to pay tribute to lifetime East Fife fan Rab Waddell who passed away last week and bring us the latest news on the East Fife Supporters' Society's attempts to buy the club.

FEBRUARY 26, 2003. That is the last time Newcastle United won a Champions League game before thrashing PSG in Matchday 2. And so much has changed in the time between those two wins. The Magpies have witnessed the fading star of Alan Shearer, the lowest lows of relegation, and near fan-revolt under former owner Mike Ashely. But then, the 2021 takeover by the Saudi Public Investment Fund led to new heights on the pitch...and moral conflict off of it. This week, Rog and Rory breakdown what that complicated takeover has meant for a proud team city in a working class city, and for football as a tool of global politics. Then, ANOTHER Italian football scandal catches Sandro Tonali its snare. Plus, the moment we've all been waiting for...Rory's official position on Stottie cakes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kaveh steps in for Darren this week to join Vicky and The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell to discuss what's going on with the Glazers and whether they are pausing their plan to sell Manchester United, which team won the transfer window and whether Liverpool might get more pressure from the Saudi League to sell Mohamed Salah before their window shuts. The Times' Tom Roddy discusses Chelsea's lack of a proven goalscorer after their defeat to Nottingham Forest and Vicky sits down with Arsenal's Mikel Arteta to talk about their start to the season. Sunday Supplement is a Sky Sports podcast. Listen to every episode here: skysports.com/sunday-supplement You can listen to Sunday Supplement on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sunday Supplement". For all the latest football news, head to skysports.com/football For advertising opportunities or to get in touch email: [email protected]

In the second installment of Men in Blazers' "Wrexham in the USA" series, Journalist and Wrexham superfan Thomas Lewis aka "Tommy Cheese" joins Rog to give the history of Wrexham football, past to present. Tommy reveals the emotional toll of toiling in the bowels of the English football pyramid, how ownership can make or break a small club, and why Wrexham represent so much more than football to the people of north Wales. Presented by SToK. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Following on from Antonio Conte's remarkable outburst at Southampton on Saturday James is joined by Tottenham fan Ricky Saunders to talk about the club and ask, why hasn't he been sacked yet? Could Conte yet remain in charge? And even if he does a change soon is surely inevitable, so what should Tottenham want when looking for a new manager. Should the club look for another 'win now' coach with Thomas Tuchel available or is a longer-term rebuild required? Plus, thoughts on the ownership of the club and the future of Harry Kane... Follow Ricky on Twitter: (1) Ricky Saunders (@Rickysaunders77) / Twitter On Planet FPL tomorrow: Ask James live stream at 1pm GMT with an audio version to follow shortly afterwards On Patreon today it's a Quiz on Uncapped Footballers hosted by @FPL_Odyssey For the full schedule of content for this week view this post 🗓 Content Schedule: March 20th-24th | Planet #FPL with Suj & James on Patreon ___________________________________________ Want to become a member of our FPL and SkyFF community and support the Podcast? Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/planetfpl Follow James on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetFPLPod Follow Suj on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sujanshah Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/planetfpl Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/planetfpl #Tottenham #THFC #Conte Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wow, where to even begin? Musa and Ryan react to the breaking news that Liverpool owners, FSG, are willing to listen to offers for the club (03:08), Southampton firing Ralph Hasenhüttl (11:30), and the draws to the Champions League (14:00), Europa League (23:42) and Conference League. They then manage to talk about some actual football (27:19), including LAFC’s first MLS Cup win (28:07), derbies and big games in Italy (31:26) and Spain (36:14), Gerard Piqué’s retirement, and finally, a wild weekend in the Premier League (42:41). Hosts: Musa Okwonga and Ryan Hunn Producer: Ryan Hunn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices For more podcasts, ad-free and in full, plus access to the Stadio Social Club and much more, you can become a Stadio member by signing up at patreon.com/stadio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week the German publication Der Spiegel published fresh claims against irregularities at Manchester City with the Premier League investigating three particular areas of interest. The purchase of under age players, the inflation of sponsorship incoming and payments made to former manager Roberto Mancini. Suj & James investigate if these new claims should concern City and if they are any different to the claims which UEFA held against the club when originally banning them from the Champions League. A ban that the Citizens overturned. Plus there's discussion on the murky world of fake sponsors and how comfortable we as fans should be on where money into football clubs comes from. Tomorrow on Planet FPL - Planet SkyFF s3 ep36 with all the latest for Sky Fantasy ___________________________________________ Want to become a member of our FPL and SkyFF community and support the Podcast? Our Patreon content in April features over 20 additional Podcasts from Intermediate Tier. Today's Podcast is our Champions League and UCL Fantasy Quarter Final 2nd leg preview. Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/planetfpl Follow James on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetFPLPod Follow Suj on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sujanshah Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/planetfpl Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/planetfpl Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ #PremierLeague #ManCity #FootballFinances Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Simon Johnson & Matt Slater look at what the future might hold for Chelsea after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned whilst trying to sell the club. We’ll also discuss Mo Salah's contract stand-off and an unwanted distraction at Liverpool with The Athletic's James Pearce. And as Everton’s struggles continue, Paddy Boyland - who covers the club for us - will detail the immediate and long term challenges at the club and for new director of football Kevin Thelwell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the dark news that Russia has invaded Ukraine, Rog examines the story and implications via a footballing lens. The removal of the Champions League Final from St. Petersburg, Russia's possible participation in this year's World Cup, and Roman Abramovich's ownership of Chelsea Football Club. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mark Chapman & The Athletic's Matt Slater are joined by Garry Cook, who over the course of a 30 year career is sport has held executive positions at Nike - where he led the Jordan brand - the UFC and he was also the CEO of Premier League side Manchester City helping to secure the £210 million takeover by current owner Sheikh Mansour. As well as sharing some of his own experiences in the business of sport, Garry also gives his thoughts on the current landscape of Premier League football including the takeover of Newcastle United. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derby County are currently embarking on a challenge of complete one of football's great escape stories, now only 8 points from safety despite a 21 point deduction under Wayne Rooney. But will they get the opportunity to complete the job? Currenlty in administration The Rams existance is under threat however if proof of funds can not be given to The EFL by February 1st. On this Podcast Suj & James discuss how precarious Derby's financial situation is and why legal claims are preventing a smooth takeover. Could Derby County really cease to exist as we currently know it...? Coming Up on Wednesday on Planet FPL - Planet SkyFF s3 ep25, discussing all the latest in Sky Fantasy Football. ____________________________________________ Want to become a member of our FPL community and support the Podcast? Our Patreon content in January features over 20 additional Podcasts from Intermediate Tier. Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/planetfpl Follow James on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetFPLPod Follow Suj on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sujanshah Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/planetfpl Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/planetfpl Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8043oOKTB4uP8Nq15Kz6bg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's Business of Sport, Mark Chapman & Matt Slater are joined by Michael Kalt, who was part of the investment group that transformed the Tampa Bay Rays from one of baseball’s worst teams to one of the best and now leads consortiums investing in football across Europe. As well as comparing financial strategies in US & European sport, Kalt discusses how U.S. investors have been seeking out bargains in football, drawn by the game’s ever-increasing global reach and lower valuations. Then , Matt Slater is in conversation with Ipswich Town’s American co-owner Brett Johnson & CEO Mark Ashton to hear about their plans for the club following the US backed takeover. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater to look at our exclusive story on the recent Burnley takeover. Their new owners have only put in £15 million up front and the rest is leveraged debt. What does this mean and should Burnley fans be concerned? Swansea City investor Jordan Gardener joins us to give us his considered view on the Burnley deal and context on the wider picture relating to increasing amounts of American capital investment in football. We also speak to Spencer Owen of Hashtag United (22:40) about the increasingly difficult situation in non-league football as it appears a second consecutive season is going to be cancelled and expunged from the record books. Spencer also gives us a fascinating insight into what it's like to have created a fully-fledged football club from scratch off the back of being a YouTube sensation and the club's ambitious vision for the future. Subscribe to The Athletic Right now you can enjoy the Athletic for just £3.99 per month as part of our January sale. Enjoy great analysis and in-depth features from the very best football writers around, as well as ad-free versions of all of our podcasts. Just go to theathletic.com/ornsteinandchapman to sign up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mark Chapman and The Athletic's Matt Slater are joined by Wrexham FC director Spencer Harris as he takes us inside the takeover deal that saw Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney purchase the club this week. We'll hear about their plans to take Wrexham to a global audience, the positive impact they've already made on the local community and there's tales of late night zoom calls with Reynolds and The Rock. In addition to that we're joined by Harrogate Town chairman Irving Weaver for his perspective on the continued wranglings over the proposed EFL bailout by the Premier League and he has some interesting things to say about Project Big Picture. Subscribe to The Athletic for just £1-a-week by heading to theathletic.com/ornsteinandchapman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode, Musa and Ryan focus on the news of Macclesfield Town receiving a winding up order, following unpaid debts of over $600,000. They use the Macclesfield Town case to take a zoomed-out look at the crisis facing England's lower-league clubs, many of which are on the brink of collapse. They also examine how football clubs are the latest example of certain institutions being ignored by parts of England, discuss poor ownership scrutiny, and look at the parallels with wider social and cultural issues, including how COVID-19 measures are hitting smaller clubs the most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices For more podcasts, ad-free and in full, plus access to the Stadio Social Club and much more, you can become a Stadio member by signing up at patreon.com/stadio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexi and Mosse kick off the show with a quick chat about '80s rock 'n' roll. Then, the Bundesliga's return to action is discussed (6:13), along with which teams looked most prepared coming out of the hiatus (17:20) and how the Americans in the league performed (30:05). Also, Alphonso Davies' meteoric rise, pros/cons of buying a club and news surrounding Major League Soccer's status are looked at in #AskAlexi (37:55). Finally, Alexi gives a peek behind the curtain at his time at the '92 Olympics and his brush with the Michael Jordan-led "Dream Team" (52:31) in another remote edition of the State of the Union Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Weekend draws for Suj's West Ham against Everton and for James' Tottenham at Watford. The lads discuss their current moods about their clubs and the importance of a good run for both in the FA Cup in light of poor Premier League campaigns and the current feeling of mediocity. Gold & Sullivan's 10 year reign is discussed, how both would feel about unlimited funds from powerful owners and current tactics from Moyes and Mourinho assessed. _________________________________________ Web: www.planetfpl.com Twitter: @PlanetFPLPod (James) / @sujanshah (Suj) Facebook: www.facebook.com/PlanetFPL Instagram: @planetfpl You Tube: www.youtube.com/planetfpl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://www.theathletic.co.uk/tifo for a 30-day free trial, and 50% off an annual subscription. James McNicholas - A.K.A Gunnerblog - joins Tifo to discuss all things Arsenal Football Club, including: the Xhaka situation, Aubameyang as captain, the future of Unai Emery, a breakdown of the club's ownership, and a clarification on the roles of backroom staff. https://www.footballindex.co.uk/ or download the app. Use the code TIFO on sign up to get the £500 money back guarantee. https://www.expressvpn.com/tifo - get an extra 3-months free with a 12-month package. Use the internet safely and privately. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.