The writer inhales… then exhales…
Ahh… Money.
It does buy happiness. Money is a powerful tool in the world today. It affects and shapes us in both good and bad ways. It is although important to not let it control us and also be the basis of what our morals and values rest upon.
The writer snaps back to reality…
BACK TO FOOTBALL.
Since we are on the topic of money let’s talk about what we have seen in different seasons year in year out across different leagues around the world and that is how money really and truly affects the game both good and bad, and of course the Saudi Arabian activity during this year’s summer transfer window. This could be a two part write up so I’d be hoping you stick around to the very end.
A team with enough financial backing can achieve so much when it comes to acquiring the biggest players, improving their team’s facilities, and hiring the best personnel and coaching staff to handle things behind the scenes. While this doesn’t always automatically translate to trophies, it is somewhat of the right step to take.
But there are ups and downs to this and as you read further you might soon understand the picture when it comes to money and what it does for football teams. This article explores the dual nature of money in football, highlighting its positive aspects while also shedding light on its negative consequences. I hope you enjoy.
THE GOOD.
As I have mentioned earlier a team’s performance on the pitch can sometimes be attributed to the club’s financial power example of this being Real Madrid, Manchester City, and very recently Newcastle.
Speaking of Newcastle…
The Magpies are one of the biggest examples of how a takeover from the right organization or individual can totally transform the luck of the team as they have come to experience in the just concluded season, Newcastle United would finally see themselves compete in Europe’s elite competition, that being the Champions league and they have also looked to be able to flex their financial muscles in this summer transfer market as they have acquired Italian midfielder, Sandro Tonali from AC Milan making him the most expensive Italian player in history and the second most expensive signing in the club’s history behind Alexander Isak.
But before the takeover Newcastle didn’t think or dream about getting big players through the door or even a Champions league spot. All these can be attributed to money and how it changed their luck for better in some way or the other. It’s only up from here.
Money = Happiness… just saying.
But just like Newcastle being able to acquire the likes of Tonali, financial resources have allowed clubs to attract top-tier talent from around the world, elevating the overall quality of football. Clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid have historically flexed their financial muscles to assemble star-studded teams that showcase exceptional skills and entertain fans. This influx of talent enhances the competitiveness of leagues, captivating audiences with the prospect of witnessing world-class players in action which further increases the interest value in the beautiful game as we know it.
In addition to acquiring eye catching talent, money has allowed clubs to invest in next level facilities, training and home grounds as well as youth academies. Clubs like Paris Saint Germain and Tottenham Hotspur have made the most of their total income and have heavily invested in this aspect for the betterment of their players, staffs and fans alike.
Clubs, due to the creation of world-class training facilities have indirectly attracted talented players and provided opportunities for young prospects to develop their skills.
In addition, Money has also enabled football to extend its reach worldwide with the aid of broadcasting and commercial partnerships fostering international collaborations and cultivating new fan bases. For instance, the Saudi Pro League’s substantial financial investments have lured high profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo who has in turn helped raise the league’s profile and also drawing global attention to Saudi Arabian football. This has attracted players like Karim Benzema, Roberto Firmino, and Ruben Neves to come to the league in a bid to further their careers. This is also pretty much subject as it could still all go down to how lucrative the deal presented to these players were.
Cristiano: typing…
THE BAD.
Money has brought significant improvements to the biggest football leagues and its teams, it has also led to several drawbacks as a prime example would be Chelsea last season after their big money takeover by Todd Boehly. Chelsea failed to live up to the expectations this takeover had set with many of their fans blaming it on the influx of players who were shipped in with so little outgoing. I personally believe last season for the blues was just a case of so much bad luck and life basically “happening” again.
A major issue money has brought to modern football would be inflated transfer fees and player wages as clubs are often forced to spend absurb sums to acquire talent, which indirectly distorts the transfer market and create unrealistic player valuations. This issue is usually rampant in the English Premier league and for English players as they are often valued very high by their clubs and as such these high costs could lead to financial instability for clubs, especially if they overspend and fail to achieve success on the pitch.
Money has also widened the financial gap between elite clubs and smaller ones as the wealthier clubs can outspend their competitors, leading to an unequal distribution of resources.
Not like there’s equality in this world anyway but still…
This financial disparity can hinder fair competition, as a small group of clubs tends to dominate their leagues consistently making it difficult for smaller clubs to challenge for top positions which can also lead to predictability and lack of competition.
Another issue money possess in modern football is the shift of player power and lack of loyalty as the inclusion of large sums of money affords players more leverage and gives them the power to dictate their destinations and wage demands. This has lead players to dissociate themselves from clubs rather frequently and not uphold long term loyalty and stability which was traditionally associated with football. Players may switch clubs more often because they now seek financial gains or joining clubs with higher prospects of success.
WHEN ITS ALL SAID AND DONE.
Money’s impact on modern football is a double-edged sword. While it has facilitated infrastructure development, global expansion, and attracted top talent, it has also exacerbated financial disparities, inflated transfer fees, and compromised the sport’s core values. Striking a balance between financial success and preserving football’s essence is crucial to ensure the sustainability and continued appeal of the beautiful game.
Let me know in the comments what you think in regards to money in modern football.
Do you feel it has done more good than harm or more harm than good?
I’ll be checking the comments for your replies, don’t forget to leave a like, follow (if you haven’t already) and share with people of similar interests. There would be a similar article relating to money as I would be looking at the Saudi Arabian moves in the current transfer window sometime in the near future. Can’t wait to see you then, cheers!
