Stefan Borson on the Intersection of Football and Finance - A Live Special from Emirates Stadium in London

Football isn’t just about the game—it’s a billion-euro empire, thanks to the intricate work of legal and financial experts. Stefan Borson, CEO of Watchstone Group and former financial advisor to Manchester City, joins us to unravel how clubs have transformed into financial powerhouses. Through his expert lens, we explore Real Madrid's remarkable financial achievements and the sweeping changes that have reshaped football operations, making lawyers and accountants indispensable in today's complex sporting landscape.

The world of football governance has never been this challenging. With UEFA's financial fair play and the Premier League's intricate rulebook, clubs now navigate a labyrinth of regulations demanding transparency and accountability. We shine a light on covert allowances during the pandemic and Chelsea’s strategic legal maneuvers concerning past off-the-book payments. These stories highlight the critical need for skilled legal teams to steer through the modern game’s financial twists and turns.

As we move down the league ladder, the fiscal hurdles lower-division teams face become apparent. The conversation shifts to the pressures of adhering to financial regulations and the potential pitfalls, such as player swaps, that threaten the sport's integrity. We also reflect on the cherished emotional bonds between fans and homegrown players, discussing the delicate balance clubs must strike between financial demands and nurturing local talent. Join us for an insightful journey into the financial and legal fabric of football today.


This Live Special episode of Don't Forget Your Tickets was recorded at the Don't Forget Your Tickets conference at Emirates Stadium, January 23rd 2025, as the second out of 12 on-stage interviews that day. Stefan Borson was interviewed by Adam Leventhal.