Playing for Profits

Winning Strategies for Football in Europe and Around the Globe

The European football industry represents the professional pinnacle of the world’s favorite sport. Yet its fortunes are far from assured. A fractured voice keeps the industry from being heard, players’ salary demands have stunted the growth of many and sent countless others into the red, and the passion of owners allows many clubs to be run without heeding economic realities.

Sporting success needs to be balanced with business success, the two feed on each other. While not every club can be a Manchester United or Real Madrid, every club can create a sustainable business model. Those that do aspire to greatness - and have either the firm economics or billionaire owner to back it up - need to plan their transitions carefully.

Playing for Profits discusses A.T. Kearney’s experiences within European football and prescribes the paths to sustainable business success.