FCB boss Degen urgently needs more millions of euros

class=”sc-3778e872-0 cgWkHT”>

It has been known for some time that FC Basel is struggling financially. In an interview with the “BaZ”, chairman David Degen gives insight into how empty the clubhouse really is.

The 40-year-old is ruthless about the current situation: “In the spring we had to fight for liquidity.” And further: “The year 2023 will be the most difficult financially in the history of FCB.”

Background: From January 1, Rood-Blauw is chasing a huge structural deficit (guaranteed income less than expenditure) year after year – in the 2022 financial year that was around 30 million. More than in the most successful times under President Bernhard Heusler (2012 to 2017)!

Although Degen and his comrades-in-arms have cut costs since coming to power in the spring of 2021, at the same time the revenues from Corona and the loss of image have fallen sharply in recent years. Hence the mega mismatch between input and output. Even the 30 million transfer proceeds in 2022 could not prevent the loss and liquidity shortage. Only a loan from FCB Holding AG, presumably financed by Degen comrades-in-arms Dan Holzmann, Ursula Rey-Krayer and Andreas Rey, secured operations.

Participation in the final would bring in three million

For 2023, Degen announces a “significantly smaller” structural deficit. But precisely because the income is still low, the FCB only sells 15,000 subscriptions, so Rood-Blauw fights for every penny. Degen announces a relaxation for 2024, from 2025 the legacy should have disappeared and the club should work entirely according to the business model of Degen’s team. And be self-sufficient.

Until then, FCB depends on every source of income. For example, the European Cup: Qualifying for the semi-finals in the Conference League has so far resulted in approximately CHF 11 million in UEFA bonuses flowing into the treasury. If Rood-Blauw also continues against Fiorentina, three million will be added – and another two million for the eventual winner.

Source : Blick