TOP CLUBS CONTINUE STRUGGLE WITH DEBT

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Despite a decline in total losses, the top clubs in Germany are still suffering from serious debt, according to figures released for the 2004-05 season. The 36 clubs comprising the top two divisions in the country combined for EUR 716.7 million in losses in figures provided by the German Football League (DFL). The number is a slight increase from the combined losses of 2003-04 that came in at EUR 770.7 million.

The reduction in losses comes after clubs enjoyed a revenue growth of 19.1 percent for a total of EUR 1.52 billion. The improved revenue numbers are attributed to clubs lowering personnel costs from 45.2 percent to 38.6 percent of their total expenditures.

The Bundesliga is one of the most recognized brands in the country with a 98 percent awareness level among the public. According to the DFL, 34 million people, or 52 percent of the population aged 14 and over, follow the Bundesliga.