Manchester City Tops UEFA’s Club Benefits Programme Payouts
In the world of football, where every match feels like a grand spectacle, Manchester City has once again found itself in the spotlight. This time, it’s not for their on-field exploits but for their significant financial gain from UEFA’s Club Benefits Programme. The Premier League giants have been allocated a whopping €5.17 million ($5.94 million), the largest sum awarded to any club by UEFA for releasing players for international duty. This news comes as a testament to the club’s contribution to national team competitions, showcasing the depth and talent within their ranks.
UEFA’s Club Benefits Programme is designed to reward clubs for their role in developing players who participate in national team competitions. This year, a record €233 million was distributed to 901 clubs across all 55 member associations. The funds were allocated for releasing players to various competitions, including the 2020-21 and 2022-23 UEFA Nations League, European Championship qualifiers 2022-24, and the upcoming Euro 2024.
While Manchester City leads the pack, they are not alone in reaping the benefits. Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid received €4.79 million, while Inter Milan of Serie A was awarded €4.65 million. These figures highlight the global nature of football, where clubs from different leagues contribute to the success of international competitions.
So, how does this programme work? Clubs receive an equal share for each player released for each UEFA Nations League and Euros qualifying match. Additionally, there is a fixed amount per player per day during the final tournament. This system ensures that clubs are fairly compensated for their players’ involvement in international fixtures.
Interestingly, the benefits of this programme extend beyond the top-tier clubs. Even a 10th-tier side like Yorkshire Amateur of England received €7,300. This inclusivity is a crucial aspect of the programme, as it acknowledges the role of clubs at all levels in nurturing talent that eventually shines on the international stage.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin expressed his satisfaction with the programme, stating, “It is fantastic to see clubs of all sizes and levels, across the entire football pyramid, receiving financial rewards for their vital role in developing players who contribute to the success of our national team competitions — including the highly successful UEFA Euro 2024 final tournament.” He further emphasized that “every success of our competitions is a shared one, and this benefits programme is another testament to that principle … When football thrives, everyone benefits.”
The total amount for the release of players in this cycle was €100 million, a significant increase from €70 million in the previous cycle. Similarly, the amount for the release of players for the European Championship also saw a rise, from €130 million to €140 million, with funds going to 196 clubs from 29 UEFA member associations.
- Manchester City: €5.17 million
- Real Madrid: €4.79 million
- Inter Milan: €4.65 million
- Yorkshire Amateur: €7,300
As the football world gears up for the Euro 2024, the financial rewards from UEFA’s Club Benefits Programme serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of club and international football. It’s a win-win situation where clubs are rewarded for their contributions, and national teams benefit from the talent nurtured at the club level. For Manchester City, this financial boost is yet another feather in their cap, underscoring their status as a footballing powerhouse.
Originally Written by: Reuters
