ECA counts the Covid cost to clubs at €4bn

July 10 – European  clubs expect to lose a staggering €4 billion in revenue over the next year because of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a study by the European Club Association.

The ECA estimated clubs in 55 countries face a collective shortfall of €1.6 billion this season and €2.4 billion euros in the 2020-21 campaign.

European football was brought to a near standstill in March and, although many leagues restarted last month, nearly all games have had to be played behind closed doors.

In the 10 leagues researched by the ECA – including the so-called Big Five of England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain – clubs face losing €400 million in ticket sales alone this season and €1.1 billion next season.

“The financial impact of COVID-19 on European clubs, as far as we can see now, is already a seismic shock, even with most competitions up and running again,” said ECA chief executive Charlie Marshall.

“The financial impact does not stop when the game resumes. Rather, it will continue into the next season and we must take measures to create a more sustainable football industry in the long run.”

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