Aston Villa Reports Losses After Tax Of £119m

Aston Villa has published its accounts for the year ending 31st May 2023, reporting a loss for the year of £119.6m after tax.

This compares with a small profit of £0.3m in the prior year. However, the club stressed to note the figures are in line with their strategic business plan, and continues to operate within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.

Following a change of sporting leadership in October 2022, the performance of the first team improved dramatically and resulted in a 7th placed finish in the Premier League and ensured European football returned to Villa Park for the first time in over a decade.

This on-field performance improvement has been supported by the continued focus on delivery of its long-term strategic plan to enhance the playing squad in a sustainable fashion.

During this financial year, the club has invested a further £63.7m in the acquisition of new players whilst also generating a profit of over £22m from player sales.

This investment is part of the reason why employee wage costs rose to £194.2m (up from £137m) although there were also increases in central support functions to support the growth of the club which resulted in a 9% increase in overall employee numbers.

The amortisation of player contracts also increased by £10m to £92.5m reflecting the increased investment in playing staff.

In addition, Villa Park has been confirmed as a host venue for Euro 2028 and as such the club has continued to invest in infrastructure, with capital investment almost doubling at £13.4m (£7.1m last year).

Revenue increased during the year to £217.7m, up from £178.4m in the previous year. A significant part of this increase is driven by finishing 7th in the Premier League versus a 14th place finish in the prior year, but there were also improvements in gate receipts, sponsorship and commercial revenues.