Tebas: LaLiga more strategic regarding transfers compared to Premier League
Javier Tebas asserted that LaLiga clubs are “more efficient in their spending” compared to their counterparts in the Premier League, during a week featuring three direct encounters between Spanish and English teams in the Champions League round of 16.
Real Madrid advanced past Manchester City with a 5-1 aggregate score on Tuesday, following Vinícius Júnior’s two goals in a 2-1 victory in the second leg held in Manchester. Meanwhile, Barcelona is set to face Newcastle on Wednesday, and Tottenham will compete against Atlético Madrid.
In the last 16, there were six teams from the Premier League, while LaLiga had three representatives. Arsenal progressed to the quarterfinals after defeating Bayer Leverkusen, whereas Chelsea was eliminated after a significant loss to Paris Saint-Germain.
“It’s not just my opinion; there are reports that indicate this,” Tebas remarked when questioned about whether Spanish clubs are more astute in their transfer strategies. “[The reports] indicate that the clubs that are most effective in player spending are Spanish. It is what it is.
“There are numerous examples. Consider Antony, the fee he commanded [at Manchester United, €95 million], and then what he cost Real Betis… How many players join Premier League clubs and subsequently play here? In my view, yes, [they’re more efficient].
“Additionally, the Spanish football model places a greater emphasis on academies. We do not require that level of expenditure.”
On Wednesday, LaLiga released its financial report for the 2024-25 season, which revealed a record total income of €5.464 billion—an increase of 8.1% from the previous season—with commercial revenue reaching €1.584 billion, along with a forecast for ongoing growth into 2025-26.
The league also underscored the significance of its academy player production, estimating the total value of homegrown players in Spain’s top division at €1.46 billion, in contrast to a Premier League valuation—according to LaLiga’s assessment—of €1.076 billion, and €419 million in the Bundesliga.
This season, five LaLiga clubs qualified for the Champions League, although Athletic Club and Villarreal were eliminated during the league phase.
“Our teams are competitive, and I believe they will remain so for many years,” Tebas stated. “We strive to ensure that clubs that do not operate fairly, the ‘state clubs,’ are held accountable, and I would appreciate more support, as we often face criticism alone.”
Tebas expressed his concerns regarding the effects of unchecked spending in the Premier League on the transfer market.
“I am concerned that spending regulations are not adhered to, and that there is a lack of financial logic in management,” he noted. “This is a troubling model, as it leads to losses, and clubs can only be rescued if they qualify for European competitions, which creates a debt bubble.”
