Bundesliga
German Football Shows Strong Signs Of Sustainable Growth
The German Football League (DFL) has reinforced the Bundesliga’s reputation as one of the most financially stable and transparently governed football ecosystems in the world, releasing a comprehensive set of financial data for all 36 clubs in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 as part of the annual licensing procedure.
This latest release builds on findings from the DFL’s Economic Report for the 2023/24 season, published in March, which showcased record-breaking revenue, high employment, and sustained financial prudence across the two top divisions. According to that report, the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 generated a record €5.87 billion in revenue – a 12% increase over the previous season’s €5.24 billion – while contributing more than €1.66 billion in taxes and duties to the German state.
The licensing-related financial disclosure published last week details key metrics including turnover, equity, annual results, and agent fees. While UEFA mandates such transparency only for clubs competing in European competitions, Germany’s unique model requires every top-flight and second-tier club to publish these figures annually – a policy enshrined by the DFL General Assembly.
This year’s data paints a picture of continued resilience and growth. A standout 32 of the 36 professional clubs maintained positive equity, where the market value of assets exceeds debt. The average equity ratio sits at a healthy 36%, and personnel costs account for just 47% of overall revenue – a marker of sustainable cost control. These figures are complemented by a notably low wages-to-cost ratio of 34%, reinforcing financial discipline across the board.
Agent fees remained steady, making up approximately 5% of gross income – consistent with previous years – while 17 clubs reported a financial surplus. However, profitability remains a mixed picture, with only nine Bundesliga and eight Bundesliga 2 clubs posting a net profit for the year.
Employment in professional German football has also hit an all-time high, with more than 62,000 people now working across the two leagues – surpassing even pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, Bundesliga 2 celebrated a landmark achievement by crossing the €1 billion revenue threshold for the first time.
Fan engagement has also surged, with more than 20.7 million tickets sold last season – another record, with expectations for even higher figures in 2024/25.
Hans-Joachim Watzke, Speaker of the DFL Executive Committee and Chairman of the DFL Supervisory Board, highlighted both the economic and societal impact of the league. He said: “With its key figures for the 2023/24 season, German professional football is sending positive economic signals against the general trend. Furthermore, and beyond the economic dimension, football has a positive impact on society. Our stadiums are places where people from all walks of life can come together and share emotions and unforgettable moments.”
In a global football economy often challenged by overspending and opaque finances, Germany continues to set the benchmark for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and long-term sustainability.
Insideworldfootball.com
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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