Chelsea was fined 23.4 million USD for failing to break even and 12.8 million USD for exceeding the 80% limit on revenue spent on "squad costs," such as transfers and wages.

The previous largest fine was 23.4 million USD, imposed on Man City and PSG in 2014. That was the first round of penalties under the system known as Financial Fair Play.

Chelsea subsequently announced, "We have cooperated fully and transparently with UEFA to provide a comprehensive and detailed analysis of our financial reports, demonstrating that the club's financial performance is on a strong upward trajectory." The Blues emphasized that they value their relationship with UEFA and sought a swift resolution through a settlement agreement.

Liam Delap (right) vies with Antonio Silva during Chelsea's 4-1 victory over Benfica in the round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, on 28/6/2025. Photo: Reuters

Chelsea is currently enjoying success at the FIFA Club World Cup. Reaching the semi-finals earned the London club nearly 74 million USD. However, according to The Times, they are still compelled to sell several players to register new signings for next season's Champions League.

UEFA regulations stipulate that "additional player costs must be offset by income from player sales." Consequently, the prize money from the Club World Cup doesn't satisfy this requirement. The Times reported that Chelsea may need over 80 million USD to register all its players and meet UEFA's demands.

Since the start of the summer, Chelsea has acquired three new players: Liam Delap (41 million USD), Joao Pedro (82 million USD), and Jamie Gittens (75 million USD). The Stamford Bridge club is likely to continue bolstering its squad after the Club World Cup, potentially exacerbating its financial situation.

In the immediate future, Chelsea must find new homes for players no longer in the team's plans, including Joao Felix, Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, and Axel Disasi. Successfully transferring these players would significantly improve the club's finances.

Last week, Barcelona was also fined 17.7 million USD for excessive losses, based on UEFA's assessment of the club's financial situation regarding eligibility for European competitions.

Both Chelsea and Barcelona were penalized in relation to their 2024 financial accounts and face further fines of tens of millions of USD in the coming seasons if they fail to meet the financial targets set by UEFA.

Compiled by Hong Duy