Arsenal and Manchester City have suffered significant financial setbacks following their exits from the Champions League this week, with both clubs estimated to lose up to €32.5m (£28m) each in prize money alone.
The Gunners were defeated 1-0 by Bayern Munich in the second leg of their quarter-final tie, after drawing 2-2 at the Emirates Stadium. Meanwhile, Real Madrid secured their place in the semi-finals by eliminating Manchester City in a tense penalty shoot-out.
In addition to the loss in prize money, both Arsenal and City will also miss out on additional revenue streams from ticket sales and merchandise, further impacting their finances for the season.
The four quarter-final winners – Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich – have each earned €12.5m (£10.8m) from UEFA's prize pool. As the competition progresses to the semi-finals and final, the financial stakes continue to rise.
The finalists of the Champions League are set to pocket a substantial €15.5m each, with the eventual winners receiving an additional €4.5m (£3.9m) on top of that. These figures highlight the significant financial rewards available to clubs that advance deep into the tournament.
Despite their quarter-final exits, both Arsenal and Manchester City still earned considerable sums from their respective Champions League campaigns. Last year's champions, Manchester City, managed to earn €87m (£75m) from their run to the last eight. Arsenal, on the other hand, banked €74m (£63.8m) despite their quarter-final elimination.
The financial impact of the Champions League is substantial for clubs participating in the competition. The prize money, along with revenue from broadcasting rights, ticket sales, and sponsorships, forms a crucial part of a club's overall income.
For Arsenal and Manchester City, the disappointment of their Champions League exits is not just limited to their on-field performances but also has a tangible effect on their financial standings. Both clubs will now turn their focus to domestic competitions as they aim to secure success and mitigate the financial losses incurred in Europe.
As the football world watches the remaining stages of the Champions League unfold, clubs will continue to vie for the lucrative prize money and the prestigious title of European champions. The financial rewards are substantial, but so too are the challenges and the fierce competition among Europe's elite clubs.
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