Real Madrid’s newest ‘enemy’ emerges after UEFA deal

The collapse of the Super League and the rise of a new era where Real Madrid, UEFA, and the European Football Clubs association (EFC) promise to work together has created a new shared adversary for the first two: the Premier League.

UEFA and Madrid are wary of England’s runaway spending, lax financial rules, and the way its clubs have dominated the transfer market at the expense of other leagues.

Tighter rules for clubs across Europe

In recent years, UEFA has strengthened its financial fair play rules, creating a framework all clubs must follow. This system is far stricter than the Premier League’s approach.

Clubs have had three seasons to adjust: in 2023, they could spend up to 90% of their revenue on wages and transfers; in 2024, the cap dropped to 80%; and by 2025, it was 70%. Some clubs have struggled to comply, with Aston Villa among those having to tighten their belts the most.

The Manchester City case

Across the channel, England is still grappling with the Manchester City situation. Three years ago, City faced 115 charges for breaching Premier League financial rules, and the case remains unresolved. In the meantime, the club has continued to buy players and win titles without restrictions.

UEFA had previously sanctioned City for similar violations before lifting the punishment, prompting stricter regulations to avoid a repeat scenario. The European governing body now plans to set clear caps on what clubs can spend on salaries, transfers, and agent fees. A working group established in 2023 is tasked with implementing these limits.

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