Sports Direct have produced an interesting set of graphics which show just how big the variation is in the value of Premier League kit sponsorships (although five clubs have managed to keep the details quiet). They also provide information on European and international kit deals.
Sports Direct have produced an interesting set of graphics which show just how big the variation is in the value of Premier League kit sponsorships (although five clubs have managed to keep the details quiet). They also provide information on European and international kit deals.
There are five clubs that have deals worth more than £20m: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United. At the other end of the spectrum there are four clubs with deals worth less than £2m: Burnley, Crystal Palace, Swansea and West Bromwich Albion.
Burnley’s deal is worth just £625,000. I was talking to a Burnley fan in Lancashire at the weekend and suggested that if his club was prepared to spend a bit more money, they might have more of a chance of staying up with all the rewards that would bring.
However, he thought that bringing in top players would destroy the wage structure and hence the team spirit that helped to get them promoted. Their success shows what can achieved by a manager who provides good organisation and good coaching, but the underlying financial realities also set limits on the success that can be secured.
In the circumstances taking the (considerable) money and returning from whence they came is a rational strategy.