With Championship financial figures released this week and being analysed by reporters, experts, clubs and supporters up and down the country and the fact that a sponsor has still not been found for the Football League for next season, money is certainly on the mind.
Whilst it is not ideal that a main sponsor has not been found just two months before next season’s fixtures are announced, a turn of events that could have a serious impact on the Football League were things not to change, contemporary leagues across Europe find themselves in a worse position.
The Championship has the good fortune of being fairly popular on the continent. Obviously not to the extent of the top tier leagues, but for a second tier division it is well known, gets good attendances, receives television coverage and has been able to attract a number of well-known names over the years to player and management positions.
The Dutch Jupiler League is unfortunately not in such a position. In March SC Veendam became the second club this year to fold from the league due to bankruptcy and financial troubles, following AGOVV Apeldoorn in January. Even more worrying is that this was the fourth professional team in just three years to fold and drop out of the league.
Whilst Ajax showed their talent in the Champions League “Group of Death” and the Dutch national team are international stars who are often seen as potential dark horses for tournaments, it seems that the county’s second-tier is struggling.
For such a short space of time, this is a high number of casualties; Veendam were one of the oldest clubs in the Netherlands. It is a shame for a nation steeped in footballing tradition and is something that needs to be addressed urgently.
Whether that involves assistance from Europe’s governing body UEFA or perhaps from the top tier Eredivisie is not for me to pass judgement on.
The discussion of the Championship’s current situation is not intended to draw apocalyptic comparisons but merely to point out that clubs need to be careful. With the majority posting after-tax losses, and with Financial Fair Play rules aiming to be introduced, it is crucial spending is held accountable and clubs are not allowed to go beyond their means.
At a time when football supporters are keeping an eye on their purse strings, the clubs must also follow to ensure more do not fall into financial difficulty.
Find me on Twitter: @dmsmith1987
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