Liverpool announce losses despite revenue increase

Liverpool FC have reported a pre-tax loss of £57m for the financial year ending 31 May 2024, an increase of £48m compared to the previous 12 months.

The Premier League club’s total revenue has risen by £20m to £614m in 2023-24, with commercial income increasing by £36m to £308m. This marks the first time Liverpool has generated more than £300m in commercial revenue, largely due to growth in partnerships and retail operations.

Liverpool has not participated in the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 2016-17, leading to a £38m decrease in media revenue to £204m. However, improved domestic performance, including a third-place Premier League finish and a Carabao Cup victory, has contributed to higher media revenue from the Premier League.

The opening of the new Anfield Road Stand and an increased number of competitive fixtures at the stadium have led to a £22m rise in matchday revenue, bringing the total to £102m.

Liverpool has spent approximately £165m on transfer fees during the period, securing Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch for the senior men’s squad.

Despite revenue growth, administrative costs have risen by £38m to £600m, mainly attributed to increased salaries and overhead expenses. Over the past eight years, matchday costs have increased by nearly 80%, while staff costs have grown by 86% to £386m since 2018.

The financial results cover the final season of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure as manager, during which Liverpool reached the quarter-finals of both the FA Cup and the Europa League.

Jenny Beacham, Liverpool FC’s Chief Financial Officer, commented, “Operating a financially sustainable club continues to be our priority and, with the continued increase in costs, it’s essential to grow income streams year on year to maintain financial stability. The success of our commercial operations, together with the opening of the new Anfield Road Stand, has increased our revenues during this reporting period, which demonstrates our desire to continue to compete at the highest levels of football in the men’s and women’s games.

“The global appeal of this football club continues to be phenomenal and is the underlying strength and opportunity we have for continued growth. We also take our social responsibilities seriously, using our global appeal to increase our community impact and sustainability efforts, in which we are leading the way across the football industry.”