Real Madrid tops soccer’s financial rankings again, valued at $6.75 billion, up 2% from 2024. Forbes’ 2025 list shows this is their fourth year in a row at number one, and ninth in 12 years. Meanwhile, Manchester United trails at $6.6 billion, and Barcelona follows at $5.65 billion. Together, the top 30 teams are worth $72 billion, averaging $2.4 billion, up 5% from last year.
Real Madrid’s Billion-Dollar Record
For the first time, Real Madrid earned $1.13 billion in 2023-24, the only soccer team to hit $1 billion in revenue. Only the Dallas Cowboys match this, with $1.2 billion in 2023. Their UEFA Champions League win added $154 million. Also, the $1.9 billion Santiago Bernabéu renovation boosts ticket sales.
The Top Teams
Manchester United and Barcelona chase Real Madrid. Liverpool ($5.4 billion) and Manchester City ($5.3 billion) round out the top five. The list covers several leagues:
- English Premier League: 12 teams, like Arsenal ($3.4 billion, up 31%) and Newcastle United ($1.1 billion, up 38%).
- Italy’s Serie A: 4 teams, led by Juventus ($2.15 billion).
- Spain’s La Liga: 3 teams, including Atlético de Madrid ($1.7 billion).
- Germany’s Bundesliga: 2 teams, like Bayern Munich ($5.1 billion).
- France’s Ligue 1: Paris Saint-Germain ($4.6 billion).
- MLS: 8 teams, with LAFC at $1.25 billion.
Why Europe Wins (With Challenges)
European clubs gain from big competitions like the UEFA Champions League. For example, Atalanta’s 2024 Europa League win earned $38 million. However, debt, strict ownership rules, and fan protests against ticket hikes, like those by Liverpool and Manchester City fans, create issues. Also, no salary cap and relegation risks add pressure.
MLS Growth and Future Hopes
In contrast, MLS teams show promise with a 9.3x revenue multiple, higher than Europe’s 5.1x. For instance, the LA Galaxy ($1 billion) beats Aston Villa, despite earning $95 million versus Villa’s $343 million. Soon, the Club World Cup and 2026 FIFA World Cup will lift values. Similarly, Barcelona’s Camp Nou upgrade, due in 2026, may push their revenue to $1 billion. Thus, El Clásico drives both rivalry and money.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Real Madrid leads soccer’s financial race. Stadium upgrades, global tournaments, and fan growth fuel revenue. Meanwhile, MLS clubs close the gap with Europe. For more sports business news, visit PulseSportsHub.com. Also, check Deloitte’s Football Money League for detailed stats.
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