Tweet
UEFA has urged clubs to follow Arsenal's business model as it prepares to implement new financial restrictions in football.
Arsène Wenger's measured approach to spending has helped the Gunners strengthen their off-field position in recent years despite the cost of moving from Highbury to Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal now turn over more than £300million a year and made a pre-tax profit of £35million in 2009. That compares favourably to other clubs who have relied on the wealth of their owners to spend big money on new signings and player wages, resulting in substantial losses.
From the 2011/12 season, UEFA regulations will force clubs to break-even over a rolling three-year period or risk a possible ban from European club competitions. And the governing body believe Arsenal have set a standard for others to follow.
"Ten years ago Arsenal reported less income than Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle," said Gianni Infantin, UEFA's General Secretary. "Now it is more than those clubs and in 2009 more than double Newcastle's.
"This shows what is possible with good management and careful investment."
Arsène Wenger's measured approach to spending has helped the Gunners strengthen their off-field position in recent years despite the cost of moving from Highbury to Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal now turn over more than £300million a year and made a pre-tax profit of £35million in 2009. That compares favourably to other clubs who have relied on the wealth of their owners to spend big money on new signings and player wages, resulting in substantial losses.
From the 2011/12 season, UEFA regulations will force clubs to break-even over a rolling three-year period or risk a possible ban from European club competitions. And the governing body believe Arsenal have set a standard for others to follow.
"Ten years ago Arsenal reported less income than Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle," said Gianni Infantin, UEFA's General Secretary. "Now it is more than those clubs and in 2009 more than double Newcastle's.
"This shows what is possible with good management and careful investment."