Off The Pitch’s Post

⚽️ Morning Snapshot 👔 SSC Napoli have announced Giovanni Manna as their new sporting director. 👔 VfL Bochum 1848 GmbH & Co. KGaA have announced that their sporting director, Patrick Fabian, has resigned. 👔 VfL Wolfsburg are reportedly close to hiring Peter Christiansen as their new managing director of football, with Christiansen leaving his role as sporting director of FC Copenhagen. 👔 1. FC Nürnberg have announced Joti Chatzialexiou as their new sporting director. 👔 RC Celta are set to appoint Alfredo Alcantara as their new director of operations 👔 The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has introduced several new senior-level hires, including Michelle Haines as the new Vice President. 👔 NJ/NY Gotham FC have revealed Liz Montaño as their new COO and Ryan Dillon as their new CBO. 🤝 Borussia Dortmund have entered a partnership with the arms company Rheinmetall. 🤝 Borussia VfL 1900 Mönchengladbach GmbH and The Coca-Cola Company have extended their partnership until 2029. 🤝 Athletic Club have renewed their partnership with DIGI until 2026, with the logo displayed on the back of their shirt for two more seasons. 🤝 UEFA has named Hisense Group as the official screen sponsor for video-assisted referees (VAR) at this summer’s European Championship. 🤝 AS Monaco and the Danish brand Bang & Olufsen have extended their partnership until 2026. #Partnership #Broadcasting #SportsBusiness #Commercial #Sponsorship #Football #SportsBiz #Finance #People #Data #Tech #Intelligence #Investment

⚽️ Morning Snapshot 👔 TSG Hoffenheim Fußball-Spielbetriebs GmbH have parted ways with their academy director, Jens Rasiejewski. 👔 Evangelos Marinakis, owner of Nottingham Forest FC and Olympiacos FC, has stepped down as president of the Greek Super League following the latest wave of football-related violence and the recent government announcement that matches are to be played behind closed doors until 12 February. 💰 1. FC Köln have been fined €595,000 by the German Football Association (DFB) for setting off pyrotechnics at their October home game against Borussia Moenchengladbach. 🟥 UEFA has banned Legia Warszawa S.A. from selling tickets to away supporters for their next five UEFA competition matches for crowd disturbances, acts of damage, throwing of objects and lighting of fireworks during their match against Aston Villa FC. 🤝 FC Barcelona and Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucía Masters have extended their partnership agreement until the end of the 2027/28 season. 🤝 West Ham United FC have announced a multi-year partnership agreement with The Topps Company, making Topps an official licensing partner of the club. 🤝 Barnsley FC have made a three-year partnership extension with Burrows Motor Company. #Partnership #Broadcasting #SportsBusiness #Commercial #Sponsorship #Football #SportsBiz #Finance #People #Data #Tech #Intelligence #Investment

Soaring to new heights: Melbourne Victory name new sponsor from 2024/25 season: Melbourne Victory have announced their latest primary sponsor for the upcoming three seasons, with both parties unveiling the newly found agreement at AAMI Park. Turkish Airlines are considered as one of the best flight carriers across the globe, and have garnered a reputation within the Sporting World. Their major sponsors vary across multiple sports, sharing agreements with three different codes involving basketball, golf and football. The airline has quite the portfolio within their rootball sponsorships. Their most significant sponsorship is undeniably their primary agreement with the UEFA Champions League, arguably one of the most coveted prizes within the Sport. Within Turkiye, the Airline are major sponsors of five Turkish clubs, including the likes of Galatasaray, and also sponsor the Turkish National Football Team. This follows on from the airline's venture outside of Europe, with the airline flying directly from Australia to Turkey as of February 2024. The partnership between both enterprises showcases a universal understanding, surrounding the importance of being competitive. Melbourne Victory are arguably one of the best clubs within Australia. 2 Australian Cups, 3 Premierships and 4 Championships across 19 years of operation, the winning mentality surrounding the club made the prosperity of a partnership more lucrative for the Turkish Outfit. The passion intertwined with the club and their fan base, although controversial, is undeniable. Acknowledging the current rivalry shared between Sydney and Melbourne off the field. It has been combatted with a rich history of Football Australia figures having debarcles with Melbourne based footballing figures within Australian football. A prime example rolls back the years to when Socceroo manager, now current Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou, who throughout his time as Australian National Team manager was under constant scrutiny within the media. The largest Melbourne-based club somewhat amplifies that personification. In a way, the grit, determination and club message Melbourne Victory live and breathe, has swayed the interest of a company in whom immerse themselves with athletic achievement. Can the new merger be the catalyst in perhaps, the renaissance of more success, at the Melbourne-based club? The post Soaring to new heights: Melbourne Victory name new sponsor from 2024/25 season appeared first on Soccerscene. #Football #Soccer #FootballNews

ICYMI: Soaring to new heights: Melbourne Victory name new sponsor from 2024/25 season: Melbourne Victory have announced their latest primary sponsor for the upcoming three seasons, with both parties unveiling the newly found agreement at AAMI Park. Turkish Airlines are considered as one of the best flight carriers across the globe, and have garnered a reputation within the Sporting World. Their major sponsors vary across multiple sports, sharing agreements with three different codes involving basketball, golf and football. The airline has quite the portfolio within their rootball sponsorships. Their most significant sponsorship is undeniably their primary agreement with the UEFA Champions League, arguably one of the most coveted prizes within the Sport. Within Turkiye, the Airline are major sponsors of five Turkish clubs, including the likes of Galatasaray, and also sponsor the Turkish National Football Team. This follows on from the airline's venture outside of Europe, with the airline flying directly from Australia to Turkey as of February 2024. The partnership between both enterprises showcases a universal understanding, surrounding the importance of being competitive. Melbourne Victory are arguably one of the best clubs within Australia. 2 Australian Cups, 3 Premierships and 4 Championships across 19 years of operation, the winning mentality surrounding the club made the prosperity of a partnership more lucrative for the Turkish Outfit. The passion intertwined with the club and their fan base, although controversial, is undeniable. Acknowledging the current rivalry shared between Sydney and Melbourne off the field. It has been combatted with a rich history of Football Australia figures having debarcles with Melbourne based footballing figures within Australian football. A prime example rolls back the years to when Socceroo manager, now current Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou, who throughout his time as Australian National Team manager was under constant scrutiny within the media. The largest Melbourne-based club somewhat amplifies that personification. In a way, the grit, determination and club message Melbourne Victory live and breathe, has swayed the interest of a company in whom immerse themselves with athletic achievement. Can the new merger be the catalyst in perhaps, the renaissance of more success, at the Melbourne-based club? The post Soaring to new heights: Melbourne Victory name new sponsor from 2024/25 season appeared first on Soccerscene. #Football #Soccer #FootballNews

Borussia Dortmund's Victory Over Paris Saint-Germain: An (ECONOMIC) Symbol ⁉️ For several decades now, #economists have highlighted the existence of a strong correlation between the #economic #power of an organization or country and its #sporting #results (cf. BERNARD & BUSSE (2000 and 2004); JOHNSON & ALI (2002), Xun Bian (2005); ANDREFF (2001, 2006 and 2008); RATHKE & WOITEK 2007; ...). In #football, specifically, HOEHN, SZYMANSKI & al. (1999) and Wladimir Andreff (2017) demonstrate that "There is a strong correlational link between the #clubs' #budget and #sporting #results... The #economic oligopoly coincides with a kind of sporting oligopoly". The bigger a #club's #budget, the more likely it is to feature at the top of the #sporting rankings. From 2015 onwards, #economists refined the indicators of #economic power used. This allowed them to highlight the importance of qualitative factors, i.e. how that #money is used (cf. BLAIS-MORISSET, BOUCHER & FORTIN (2015 and 2017); De BOSSCHER, Van BOTTENBURG, SHIBLI, & WESTERBEEK (2015)). "Some countries #succeed better than others with the same #investment". We find the same phenomenon at the club level: 2 clubs with the same budget will succeed more or less well in #sporting dimension due to a different use of that budget. The #economic model and particular #financial #management of a club therefore plays a role that is far from negligible in the #sporting #success of that #club. Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund have very different #economic models and #financial #management. We can get an idea of this by cross-referencing data from 2 articles: -Patrice Bouvet & Christophe Lepetit "From Doping to Financial Doping" (2015) ➡ Since Paris Saint-Germain was taken over by the Qataris, the latter have used a "#financial #doping" #strategy to grow the club. -Walid Agrar & Ahlam Laroussi "#Financial Analysis of the Big Clubs in the 5 Major European Football #Leagues" ➡ Relatively high market capitalization ratio of Borussia Dortmund in relation to its net income (Price Earning Ratio of 16.66); the explanatory hypothesis being that it is the only #European #club listed on the stock exchange that shows positive net results. We then understand that there are 2 opposing #management #strategies: that of the excessive and uncontrolled spending of Paris Saint-Germain, and that of the optimal management of Borussia Dortmund. And guess what? It was the latter that prevailed yesterday. A coincidence? Tell me what you think of it in the comments. 😉

LAFC’s connection with renowned Swiss powerhouse forms long-term strategy: Major League Soccer's Los Angeles FC (LAFC), put pen to paper on a strategic partnership between Swiss Super League powerhouse Grasshopper Club Zürich, making them major shareholders of Grasshopper Football Ltd. The two organisations will provide unique platforms for the development of young talent, through a further expansion of LAFC's network which has Austria’s FC Wacker Innsbruck and Germany's FC Bayern München. Having played their first professional season in 2018, LAFC are trailblazers across the MLS, in establishing themselves as a competitive club so early in their existence. Since 2019, The Black and Gold have accumulated a total of seven domestic titles, also including an appearance in the CONCACAF Champions League Final, in which they fell narrowly short to Mexican outfit, Leon. High-quality players including Georgio Chiellini, Carlos Vela and Gareth Bale all shared stints in the City of Angels. The partnership LAFC have entered proposes the idea that the American club are looking to sustain a European feel. Co-President Larry Freedman praised the Zurich-based club. “Grasshopper Club Zürich is an iconic brand in both Swiss and European football, with an incredible tradition of success and a foundation built on developing top-level talent,” he said via media release. “LAFC is honoured to work together on this long-term partnership with the GC Zürich community and all the supporters as we begin our collaboration.” The Grasshoppers are a staple within Switzerland. Founded in 1886, the reign as the longest serving Swiss club across Europe. Throughout their 138 year tenure, the Hoppers hold the most League and Cup Titles respectively, accumulating 51 titles. However, their most recent major trophy success came in the 2012-13 season. Since then, Their decline has been swift. For the first time in 68 years, the club succumbed to relegation in 2019. Although bouncing back out of the second tier two seasons later, the club have not been able to reach their past dominance. Financial hardship, the COVID-19 pandemic, and lack of ambition were the ingredients to the clubs spiral out of form on the pitch. The American acquisition will leave Hoppers fans hopeful. Given the financial freedom the American outfit possesses, the combination of clubs is a benefit to both parties. On one hand, The Grasshoppers are able to rejuvenate their youth system, in which it has bred players the likes of Stephen Lichsteiner, Roman Burki and Yan Sommer. Furthermore, players within their youth academy can gain senior football experience in the MLS, before competing against Switzerland and Europe’s finest. Given the ambition in which LAFC possesses, the partnership between both clubs can ultimately breed a new plethora of Swiss superstars - helping the Hoppers get back to heights they… #Football #Soccer #FootballNews

ICYMI: LAFC’s connection with renowned Swiss powerhouse forms long-term strategy: Major League Soccer's Los Angeles FC (LAFC), put pen to paper on a strategic partnership between Swiss Super League powerhouse Grasshopper Club Zürich, making them major shareholders of Grasshopper Football Ltd. The two organisations will provide unique platforms for the development of young talent, through a further expansion of LAFC's network which has Austria’s FC Wacker Innsbruck and Germany's FC Bayern München. Having played their first professional season in 2018, LAFC are trailblazers across the MLS, in establishing themselves as a competitive club so early in their existence. Since 2019, The Black and Gold have accumulated a total of seven domestic titles, also including an appearance in the CONCACAF Champions League Final, in which they fell narrowly short to Mexican outfit, Leon. High-quality players including Georgio Chiellini, Carlos Vela and Gareth Bale all shared stints in the City of Angels. The partnership LAFC have entered proposes the idea that the American club are looking to sustain a European feel. Co-President Larry Freedman praised the Zurich-based club. “Grasshopper Club Zürich is an iconic brand in both Swiss and European football, with an incredible tradition of success and a foundation built on developing top-level talent,” he said via media release. “LAFC is honoured to work together on this long-term partnership with the GC Zürich community and all the supporters as we begin our collaboration.” The Grasshoppers are a staple within Switzerland. Founded in 1886, the reign as the longest serving Swiss club across Europe. Throughout their 138 year tenure, the Hoppers hold the most League and Cup Titles respectively, accumulating 51 titles. However, their most recent major trophy success came in the 2012-13 season. Since then, Their decline has been swift. For the first time in 68 years, the club succumbed to relegation in 2019. Although bouncing back out of the second tier two seasons later, the club have not been able to reach their past dominance. Financial hardship, the COVID-19 pandemic, and lack of ambition were the ingredients to the clubs spiral out of form on the pitch. The American acquisition will leave Hoppers fans hopeful. Given the financial freedom the American outfit possesses, the combination of clubs is a benefit to both parties. On one hand, The Grasshoppers are able to rejuvenate their youth system, in which it has bred players the likes of Stephen Lichsteiner, Roman Burki and Yan Sommer. Furthermore, players within their youth academy can gain senior football experience in the MLS, before competing against Switzerland and Europe’s finest. Given the ambition in which LAFC possesses, the partnership between both clubs can ultimately breed a new plethora of Swiss superstars - helping the Hoppers get back to… #Football #Soccer #FootballNews

MUST READ: LAFC’s connection with renowned Swiss powerhouse forms long-term strategy: Major League Soccer's Los Angeles FC (LAFC), put pen to paper on a strategic partnership between Swiss Super League powerhouse Grasshopper Club Zürich, making them major shareholders of Grasshopper Football Ltd. The two organisations will provide unique platforms for the development of young talent, through a further expansion of LAFC's network which has Austria’s FC Wacker Innsbruck and Germany's FC Bayern München. Having played their first professional season in 2018, LAFC are trailblazers across the MLS, in establishing themselves as a competitive club so early in their existence. Since 2019, The Black and Gold have accumulated a total of seven domestic titles, also including an appearance in the CONCACAF Champions League Final, in which they fell narrowly short to Mexican outfit, Leon. High-quality players including Georgio Chiellini, Carlos Vela and Gareth Bale all shared stints in the City of Angels. The partnership LAFC have entered proposes the idea that the American club are looking to sustain a European feel. Co-President Larry Freedman praised the Zurich-based club. “Grasshopper Club Zürich is an iconic brand in both Swiss and European football, with an incredible tradition of success and a foundation built on developing top-level talent,” he said via media release. “LAFC is honoured to work together on this long-term partnership with the GC Zürich community and all the supporters as we begin our collaboration.” The Grasshoppers are a staple within Switzerland. Founded in 1886, the reign as the longest serving Swiss club across Europe. Throughout their 138 year tenure, the Hoppers hold the most League and Cup Titles respectively, accumulating 51 titles. However, their most recent major trophy success came in the 2012-13 season. Since then, Their decline has been swift. For the first time in 68 years, the club succumbed to relegation in 2019. Although bouncing back out of the second tier two seasons later, the club have not been able to reach their past dominance. Financial hardship, the COVID-19 pandemic, and lack of ambition were the ingredients to the clubs spiral out of form on the pitch. The American acquisition will leave Hoppers fans hopeful. Given the financial freedom the American outfit possesses, the combination of clubs is a benefit to both parties. On one hand, The Grasshoppers are able to rejuvenate their youth system, in which it has bred players the likes of Stephen Lichsteiner, Roman Burki and Yan Sommer. Furthermore, players within their youth academy can gain senior football experience in the MLS, before competing against Switzerland and Europe’s finest. Given the ambition in which LAFC possesses, the partnership between both clubs can ultimately breed a new plethora of Swiss superstars - helping the Hoppers get back to… #Football #Soccer #FootballNews

As we kick off the 50th season of the 2. Bundesliga, there's a lot for the football business community to get excited about. Clubs like Hertha BSC (Olympiastadion, 74,649), Schalke 04 (Veltins Arena, 62,271), and Hamburger SV (Volksparkstadion, 57,000) regularly draw over 40,000 fans, which is pretty incredible for a second division. With nine former German champions like Fortuna Düsseldorf, 1. FC Nürnberg, 1. FC Kaiserslautern, 1. FC Köln, and Hannover 96, the league is a thrilling mix of competitive spirit and rich traditions. What’s truly fascinating is that this level of brand presence and attendance is quite unusual for a second-tier league. The 2. Bundesliga’s average attendance last season was ahead of Spain’s La Liga, with figures around 29,189, reflecting Germany's unique fan-first football culture. The league’s affordable ticket prices and strong local club connections help maintain this extraordinary support. This lively atmosphere offers fantastic opportunities for brands to connect with loyal fans and gain significant exposure. The presence of these historic clubs guarantees not only exciting matches but also strong commercial potential. By partnering with these teams, brands can tap into their large, dedicated followings and long-standing heritage, boosting brand recognition and loyalty. With attendance numbers that can rival top-tier leagues, the 2. Bundesliga is a standout platform for creative marketing efforts. The blend of historic legacies, passionate fans, and substantial viewership makes this league an intriguing prospect for anyone in the football business. #2Bundesliga #FootballBusiness #Sponsorship #SportsMarketing #GermanFootball #BrandOpportunities #Bundesliga2 #HerthaBSC #Schalke04 #HamburgerSV #FortunaDüsseldorf #1FCNürnberg #1FCKaiserslautern #1FCCöln #Hannover96 #HistoricClubs #StrategicPartnerships #FootballMarketing #Attendance #FanEngagement

⚽ Champions League Squad Values Analysis! ⚽ Ahead of the crucial final matches in the group stages, a look at the squad values of the competing clubs reveals intriguing insights. 💼💰 Amongst the "billionaire club" teams, Manchester United is the only one that is not currently in a qualifying position. However, Bayern München, Real Madrid, and Manchester City have secured their spots. FC Barcelona and Arsenal are leading their groups, while Paris Saint-Germain currently hold the second position in Group F. 🏅🔍 Group F, notorious as the 'group of death,' has lived up to its reputation. The competition remains fierce, with qualifying spaces up for grabs, promising an exciting finish for fans. ⚡⚔️ Despite holding only the third-highest squad value in Group D, Real Sociedad have already booked their ticket to the Round of 16. Joining them from the same group is Inter, solidifying their place in the next stage. 🌟🎯 Who do you believe will clinch a spot in the Round of 16? Share your predictions! ⚽🏆 #ChampionsLeague #SquadValues #FootballAnalysis