Aston Villa claims to be on track despite $151 million loss

Aston Villa has revealed a loss of just over $151 million for the 2022/23 financial year. This window began on June 1, 2022, and ended on May 31, 2023. The West Midlands club finished seventh during this particular year, up from 14th in the previous campaign. They also qualified for the Europa Conference League as well, their first season in a European competition in 13 years.

The figures are somewhat alarming considering the Premier League‘s current spending laws in place. These profit and sustainability rules state that clubs cannot exceed about $133 million in losses over three years. Despite this, Villa has announced that their financial records are on track with their objectives.

“It is important to note that these figures are in line with the strategic business plan, and we continue to operate within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules,” claimed the club. “The owners of Aston Villa remain committed to the long-term and sustainable development of the Club, and we look forward to continued progress on the delivery of our strategic plan.”

Multiple Premier League sides have been charged with financial issues

Villa recorded a net spend of around $50 million on transfers during the 2022/23 season. This included fairly large deals for Diego Carlos ($33 million) and Philippe Coutinho ($21 million). The club also brought in Jhon Duran, Leander Dendoncker, and Alex Moreno as well. Nevertheless, Villa attempted to offset these deals by selling Carney Chukwuemeka, Matt Target, and Danny Ings.

Despite the precarious financial situation, the Birmingham-based team spent even more money in the transfer market during the current campaign. Villa racked up $85 million in net spend this season. This includes massive deals for Moussa Diaby and Pau Torres.

Along with losses on the rise, Villa’s wage bill is also expanding as well. The English team went from about $174 million in player wages in 2021/22 to $246 million during the most recent financial year.

Fellow Premier League sides Everton and Nottingham Forest have both been charged with violating the division’s spending laws. The Toffees have been given a six-point penalty but face an additional charge. Forest, on the other hand, has not learned their fate just yet. Nevertheless, a case regarding the issue is expected to be resolved soon.

Aston Villa battling back from financial loss thanks to performances

Villa has found success thanks to the aforementioned signings and the addition of Unai Emery. The Spanish manager entered the fray with the team in November of 2022 and has been a resounding success. His 59% current win rate with the club is the second-best percentage of his coaching career. Only his stay at Paris Saint-Germain earned a higher winning rate.

While the losses are up at Villa, they did record a slight profit in 2021/22. This was fueled by selling Jack Grealish to Manchester City for over $125 million. Nevertheless, the recent report could very well mean that the club needs to be careful about spending this summer.

There is, however, positive news regarding the club’s finances. Unlike other teams that are spending and struggling, Villa is creating revenue by performing well domestically and in Europe. The club currently sits fourth in the table and is hoping to secure a Champions League place. Elsewhere, they also advanced to the round of 16 in the Conference League.

PHOTOS: IMAGO.