The Business of Football

In this interview live from the World Football Summit interview, David Chimbaza speaks with Kimi Onana, Managing Partner at Crown & Shields Legal, about the importance of intellectual property in modern football. A Nigerian lawyer based in the Netherlands, Kimi specialises in intellectual property law and works across African jurisdictions, helping clients protect and exploit valuable intellectual property rights.

Kimi explains why footballers should view themselves not only as athletes, but also as commercial brands. He explores the importance of protecting names, images, trademarks and personal identities, using examples such as Cristiano Ronaldo’s CR7 brand to show ho...

An interview live from The World Football Summit, Founder of The Business and Football Network, David Chimbaza speaks with Emmanuel Mireku Attah, CEO of Manna Fresh Football Club, about his journey from professional footballer to football business leader and youth development advocate. After an injury ended his playing career, Emmanuel turned to education, completing a master’s degree in football business before focusing on building a new development pathway for young players in Ghana and across Africa.

Emmanuel explains the vision behind Manna Fresh Football Club: to identify talented young players, provide them with the structure and su...

In this special on-location episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza brings listeners the full day-two experience from the World Football Summit in Madrid, continuing the network’s first international event coverage. From early-morning media activity and unexpected opportunities to interviews, keynote sessions and behind-the-scenes moments, David reflects on the intensity and excitement of being part of one of football’s leading global business gatherings.

The episode captures David’s attempts to photograph and film major figures including La Liga president Javier Tebas and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, while also documenting the interviews and conver...

In this special on-location episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza travels to Madrid for the first international event covered by the network: the 2026 World Football Summit. From the venue in La Nave, David brings listeners behind the scenes of a major global football business conference, reflecting on the atmosphere, the people attending and the opportunity to connect with leaders from across the industry.

Throughout day one, David explores the importance of networking, collaboration and learning directly from people working across football, technology, finance, media and participation sport. He discusses sessions from JP Morgan on...

In this episode of The Business of Football, David Chimbaza sits down with John Gillespie, CEO of Power League, to explore the turnaround of one of the UK’s largest small-sided sports operators. John shares how he joined the business in 2018 as Chief Operating Officer when pitch quality, infrastructure and customer experience had deteriorated, and how a renewed focus on reinvestment, listening to colleagues and putting customers back at the heart of the operation helped transform utilisation, brand partnerships and overall performance. The conversation covers the shift from a top-down to a bottom-up operating model, the introduction of Power Pi...

In this honest, behind-the-scenes episode of The Business of Football, David Chimbaza opens up about the real struggles of building a media platform in the football industry. Recorded during a hectic week, this solo reflection dives into the challenges of staying consistent, managing burnout, and balancing passion with the demands of running a business  from researching complex stories like the FIFA governance crisis to producing articles, podcasts and social content while still trying to grow the network. 

David shares how working in football doesn’t always feel like being a fan anymore, and how the shift from cons...

In this deep-dive analysis episode of The Business and Football Network, David Chimbaza explores how football leadership has evolved over the last 10–15 years, moving from the traditional “manager-centric” model to a more sophisticated, multi-layered executive structure. The episode examines how the role of the manager has changed, why sporting directors and CEOs now hold greater authority, and what this shift means for the future of club operations, recruitment and long-term strategy.

David draws on Gareth Southgate’s recent comments about the erosion of managerial authority, using Manchester United as a central case study to show how the post-Fer...

In this deep-dive analysis episode of The Business of Football, David Chimbaza breaks down the governance crisis unfolding at FIFA in the wake of the 2026 World Cup. The episode focuses on the fallout from Gianni Infantino’s controversial proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a new commercial subsidiary that would have sold a minority stake in World Cup rights to private investors in a deal reportedly worth up to $4.2 billion. David explains how the plan triggered immediate backlash from UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation, who accused FIFA of poor governance, lack of transparency and attempting to pu...

In this special guest episode of The Business and Football Network, David Chimbaza sits down with Daniel Mayhew, Career Progression Manager at the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), to explore education, career development and life after professional football. With previous experience at the Global Institute of Sport and UCFB, Daniel shares his insight into supporting footballers, students and practitioners as they plan their next steps within the sports industry. paste.txt

Daniel explains how the PFA Business School supports players at every stage of their journey, from academy scholars and current professionals to recently retired players and those wh...

In this episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza reflects on attending the ElevateHER Football conference at UA92, a two-day event focused on women’s football and leadership. Rather than being a passive sit-and-listen conference, Elevate pushed delegates to discuss, collaborate and challenge one another, creating an environment that encouraged real engagement, personal growth and new ideas.

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In this deep-dive episode of The Business of Football, David Chimbaza explores whether the financial gap in football is still widening and what that means for the future of the sport. Recorded during the summer 2026 transfer window, the episode examines how record-breaking fees, PSR rules and commercial revenue are reshaping the balance of power between elite clubs and the rest of the pyramid.

David draws on the Deloitte Football Money League to show how the top 20 clubs generated €11.2 billion in revenue in 2023–24, with commercial income now the largest revenue stream at 44%. He highlights how big clubs leverage broa...

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In this episode of The Business of Football, David Chimbaza sits down with Nicola Sanders Cooper, the chair of Ashington AFC, to explore what it really takes to help run one of Northumberland’s oldest football clubs. Ashington AFC was formed in 1883, is closely tied to the town’s football heritage, and sits at the heart of its community, making this a conversation about much more than football on the pitch. 

Nicola shares how she moved into the role through her work o...

In this special wrap-up episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza reflects on his experience attending the UEFA Under-19 European Championships final between Germany and Spain at the Racecourse Ground in Wrexham, Wales.

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In this special interview episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza sits down with Ben Lucey, Senior Event Operations Manager at the Football Association of Wales, who served as the project lead for the UEFA Under-19 European Championships hosted across North Wales. With the tournament final between Germany and Spain unfolding as this episode is released, David and Ben reflect on what it took to deliver a world-class international event in venues and communities that were not traditionally used to this level of football.

Ben shares how the vision behind the tournament was to celebrate 150...

In this episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza reflects on his experience covering the UEFA Under-19 European Championships semi-final between Germany and Ukraine at the Racecourse Ground in Wales, offering a pitch-side perspective on what it was like to be embedded in the environment of an international youth tournament.

He explores why this tournament is so important for the development of future superstars, how it provides a platform for young players to grow their brand and shine on a European stage, and what it means for clubs and academies to have their talents showcased...

In this episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza takes a deep dive into the pillars of networking and why building real relationships in football is about far more than sending messages or collecting contacts. Drawing from his own experience developing an international network across football, media and business, he reflects on how his perspective has changed over time, what he has learned from connecting with leaders around the world, and why networking should be rooted in authenticity, curiosity and value rather than agenda. David explains why so many people misunderstand networking, arguing that the strongest connections...

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In this episode of The Business of Football Network, David Chimbaza reflects on his experience covering Wales vs Spain at the UEFA Under-19 European Championships in Wales, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it was like to be inside the media environment at an international tournament for the very first time. From collecting accreditation and navigating the pre-match setup to observing the work of photographers, stewards and event staff, David shares the lessons, nerves and small mistakes that came with learning...

In this special on-the-ground recap from the UEFA U19 Euros in Wales, David Chimbaza shares his first day behind the scenes at the Racecourse Ground as media for The Business of Football Network. From collecting accreditation and navigating pre-match operations to capturing the atmosphere around the stadium, this episode gives listeners a real glimpse into what it takes to cover an international tournament from the inside.

David reflects on the experience of working in a new environment, the lessons learned from being in media rather than stewarding, and the small mistakes that come with doing something for...

In this episode of The Business of Football, we unpack why the World Cup is capturing attention in a way the domestic game often struggles to, from standout performances by Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland to the wider debate around entertainment, business and football’s future. We also dig into the frustration surrounding VAR in the Premier League, asking why the technology still slows the game down and what that means for the viewing experience.

Alongside the footballing discussion, we share an exciting update on our own journey as we head to the UEFA Under-19 Eur...

In this episode, UCFB student and The Business of Football Network interviewer Taylor Denton sits down with Soccerex marketing executive Joshua Keyes to talk about breaking into the football industry while balancing study, work, and networking. Joshua shares how he got started, what drew him to the business side of football, and what it’s really like working across events, consultancy, and football business media. From his role at Soccerex to his experiences with Football Business Black Book and Football Business Television, Joshua gives a real insight into the opportunities, challenges, and relationships that are shaping his journey in th...

In this week’s episode of The Business of Football Podcast, David Chimbaza explores one of the biggest questions in the game and asks whether the World Cup really benefits the countries that take part in it. With the tournament in full swing, and England playing on the same day, David breaks down the economics, the culture, and the long term impact of football’s biggest stage. From FIFA prize money and commercial exposure to tourism, grassroots development, and national pride, this episode looks beyond the headlines to examine what the World Cup actually means for the countries involved, both...

It’s opening night of the FIFA World Cup, and The Business of Football is kicking off the tournament with our official predictions episode hosted by David Chimbaza. In this video, David gives his full take on the competition ahead, breaking down who he thinks will win the tournament, which teams could cause major shocks, what the game of the tournament might be, and the key storylines to watch as the World Cup gets underway with Mexico vs South Africa. THE LATEST E-BOOK BY BUSINESS LEADERS IN FOOTBALL: https://amzn.eu/d/0btrliBv This episode is a mix of op...

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In this week’s episode of The Business of Football Podcast, David Chimbaza takes listeners inside his recent visit to the InScout Innovators Forum in Middlesbrough, sharing a detailed reflection on a day packed with insight, conversation, and real world football business learning. From player care and safeguarding to scouting, women’s football, non league leadership, community foundations, post career support, medical innovation, and agency work, David breaks down the key takeaways from every speaker and explains why events like this...

n this week’s episode of The Business of Football Podcast, David sits down with Jamie Khan, co author of How to Become a Football Agent, to explore the journey behind building a career in football and sport. Jamie has already achieved a huge amount in a relatively short time, including being recognised in the sports industry’s 30 Under 30, and in this conversation he opens up about how it all started during lockdown, when he realised the path he was on was not the one he wanted to follow. What followed was a period of reflection, networking, and action that...

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In this very special episode of The Business of Football Podcast, David shares an exciting milestone for The Business of Football Network as we launch our very first book, Breaking Into the Professional World of Football Business, by the Professionals. This episode is a deep dive into why the book was created, what inspired it, and how it brings together some of the most important lessons from the conversations we have had on the platform so far. Rather than telling people what to do, the book is d...

David Chimbaza digs into the business side of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to ask a simple but shocking question: could qualifying for the tournament actually cost some national teams money? A month out from kick-off, David walks listeners through prize funds, daily allowances, travel and tax headaches, and why a bigger, multi-country World Cup may squeeze already-tight national association budgets.

Drawing on reporting from PA, The Guardian and Reuters, he explains how FIFA’s $727M prize pool, reduced daily allowances, and the tournament’s US–Canada–Mexico footprint create extra costs that aren’t covered by headline figures. H...

Hosted this week by The Business of Football Journalist Charlie Sundaram, he sits down with Joel Hobbs, who's  journey took him from semi-pro footballer to founder of Custom Changing Rooms. This episode explores how a passion for the game, a hands-on mindset, and a focus on professionalism have helped him build a niche business across non-league football and beyond. He also shares why changing rooms matter so much to performance, recruitment, and club culture, and why he believes the best work happens when he is personally involved with the club from start to finish.

In this episode, J...

In this week’s episode of The Business of Football Podcast, David goes solo to share a candid and personal reflection on the upcoming FIFA World Cup, speaking not just as a host in the football industry but as a genuine football fan looking forward to what promises to be one of the most fascinating tournaments in recent memory. From the political backdrop surrounding the event to the excitement of seeing more nations involved, David breaks down why this World Cup is about far more than just the football on the pitch. He explores the legacy opportunities for the ho...

Drawing from his own experiences across football, media and education, Santiago Vazquez shares how he went from a teenager obsessed with football statistics to working in the sport‑business world. He explains why the best version of yourself is the most valuable one, and why clarity, confidence and genuine self‑awareness matter far more than trying to fit a polished image that does not feel natural. Hosted By Lui Ferrera Alfonso, he sits down this week to interview the Sports Business & LA LIGA insider on his career so far.

In this episode, Santiago unpacks his journey from a 17...

Drawing from his own experiences, David speaks about the value of presenting your best authentic self, rather than getting caught up in unnecessary pressure about how you look or how you come across. He breaks down why clarity, confidence, and genuine self-awareness matter far more than trying to fit a polished image that doesn’t feel natural. This episode is a reminder that professionalism in football is not just about appearance, but about mindset, communication, and knowing how to show your value in a real and credible way. ACCESS OUR FREE FOOTBALL NETWORKING GUIDE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d...

In this episode, TBOFN Journalist Maxwell Kablan sits down with the brains behind the Non-League Network, Co-Founder David Leese & Chief Marketing Officer Patrick Tordeur, to unpack how the platform came to life and why it matters so much to the non-league game. From grassroots football to business, community, and club support, they share the story behind building a network designed to connect players, clubs, volunteers, and services across the football pyramid. Patrick brings a unique international background, having played in Belgium, England, and Spain, before moving deeper into the business side of sport and finding his way back into...

In this episode, David sits down with Connor Ryan, a former Premier League academy player and the founder of the football equipment startup, Volta Sports. Connor shares his non-linear journey from falling out of love with professional football to working in fashion and construction, before finally finding his true purpose in entrepreneurship. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Street football culture is missing in modern academies: Connor created The Cube to bridge the gap between structured, often repetitive academy drills and the joy and creativity of playing in the cages with friends.

Ideas are worthless without execution: W...

The Business football goes behind the industry, with an interview with Founder of multiple football businesses Anthony Zouzout. Providing businesses and online business for scouts, agents & making services easier, Anthony based out in the USA created multiple opportunities based on his own personal experiences. In this interview, Toby Lenton sits down with Anthony as they discuss his business, his experiences in football and much more insightful content! Make sure to follow our social media Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-business-of-football-network Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessoffootballnetwork/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoffootball Website: https://www.businessoffootballnetwork.co...

In this solo episode of the Business of Football Network podcast, we take a break from guest interviews to tackle a harsh reality of the sports industry: why your generic CV is probably getting ignored. Dealing with a bit of spring hay fever, our host delivers some much-needed candid advice about what it actually takes to get hired by a football club. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ditch the "mass apply" strategy: Firing off the same generic CV to dozens of clubs doesn't work; hiring managers are incredibly busy and simply do not have the time to sift t...

In this episode, David sits down with Nana Asamoah, the Director of Limitless Sports Football Club, to explore his remarkable journey in the world of football coaching and leadership. Starting from his early days coaching in schools to founding a thriving club in North London, Nana shares the challenges of building a business in a competitive landscape, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Authenticity in Coaching: Nana emphasizes that effective coaching begins with understanding what players and parents need, drawing from his own experiences as a young athlete.

Resilience Through Adversity: The g...

In this episode, David sits down with Jan Esteller Subirats, the visionary founder of Unique Sports, to explore the intersection of high-performance coaching and international sports management. Drawing from his extensive background as a former coach and his professional experience at major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The "Smart Football" Philosophy: True player development occurs when coaches move away from PlayStation coachingand instead ask the right questions to foster player autonomy.

Logistics of Scale: Organizing international tournaments requires balancing intricate details from airport transfers and Olympic village-style...

In this reflective episode, David dives deep into the concept of conviction within the sports industry. Drawing inspiration from a recent interview with Jack Glennon of Behind Sport, he explores the necessity of unwavering belief when navigating the turbulent waters of sports entrepreneurship. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Conviction is the Engine: In an industry filled with rejection, an internal, unwavering belief in your project is the only thing that keeps you going when the results aren't yet visible.

The "Nobody" Phase is the Hardest: Transitioning from a graduate with a degree to a...

In this premiere guest episode of 2026, David sits down with Jack Glennon, the co-founder of Behind Sport. Jack shares his inspiring journey from graduating from UCFB and volunteering at Salford City to launching a successful sports media platform during the 2020 lockdown. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Championing the "Behind the Scenes" Professionals: Behind Sport was founded to celebrate the people and the business side of the sports industry that often go unnoticed by the general public.

The Power of Practical Experience: Jack’s experience at Salford City, starting with a blog and moving int...

Join us as we sit down with Malcolm Buick, Chief Creative Officer at Athletics, for an insightful conversation on the power of design, community, and culture in modern football branding. Growing up in Scotland, Malcolm’s journey took him through London’s music scene and into the US creative industry, shaping legendary sports brands from Burton Snowboards to Major League Soccer (MLS) and clubs like Seattle Sounders. In this episode, Malcolm reveals: How authentic storytelling and fan engagement fuel the growth of football clubs and leagues. Why community identity and local roots are at the heart of effective sports bran...

In this episode of the Business of Football podcast, David returns to share exciting updates and fresh perspectives for the new year. Reflecting on the podcast's journey, David discusses the relaunch of their social media platforms and the ambitious goal of uploading every podcast episode to YouTube, including previously unrecorded ones.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Content Expansion: The podcast is relaunching its social media platforms and YouTube channel, aiming to provide more insightful content, including behind-the-scenes footage and matchday experiences.

Consistency and Growth: The importance of releasing podcast episodes consistently has been...