In an exclusive report from Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan’s premature exit from European competitions this season is not just a sporting disaster but could also spell economic catastrophe.
The article underscores the potential financial fallout, stating that Milan needs nothing short of a miracle to advance in the Champions League and may even miss out on Europa League qualification.
Compared to the lucrative semi-final appearance in the last Champions League season, Milan is facing a painful reversal that could cost the club staggering €113 million. The uncertainty surrounding their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup in June 2025 further complicates matters.
The 2022-23 Champions League proved a financial boon for Milan, bringing in approximately €127 million, including €85 million from UEFA prizes and €42.5 million from ticket sales. However, the potential early exit this season could lead to a drastic decline, impacting commercial visibility and creating a negative spiral.
From a semi-final appearance last year to the current struggle in the group stage, Milan has already collected around €61 million. The potential loss if they fail to reach the semi-finals again, is estimated at €68 millio underscores the economic challenges they face.
An additional regret is the FIFA Club World Cup. Which will debut in June 2025, with a tournament made of 32 teams. There are 12 European clubs, with Italy getting 2 spots and Inter having secured one of them. The other comes out of the three-way fight between Juventus, Milan and Napoli.
Juve are ahead, and exiting Europe now means saying goodbye to the dreams of a trip to the USA. In addition to the sentimental issue there is the commercial one and the one linked to the prizes.
The figures are not official here either, but we are talking about $2.5bn in prize money (€2.3bn). Participating should be worth $50m dollars (€45m). Adding the two numbers together, €68m plus €45m equals €113m. Between adjustments, increases and cuts, it would be a catastrophe.
