Maguire says “the numbers paint a stark picture” in terms of both revenue and spending power when comparing the ‘haves’ with the ‘have nots’.
“Back in 2014-15, Championship clubs receiving parachute payments earned an average of £31.8 million in revenue – nearly double the £16.1 million brought in by their non-parachute counterparts,” he explained.
“Fast forward to 2023-24 and that gap has exploded. Parachute clubs averaged £62.9 million in revenue, while the others averaged just £26.7m.
“With greater revenue comes greater spending power.
“In 2014-15, the wage bill gap between parachute and non-parachute clubs stood at £10.4 million. By 2023-24, it had ballooned to £43.3 million.
“That disparity is reflected in squad investment, too, with parachute clubs fielding squads worth an average of £157 million last season, compared to just £19 million for the rest.
“This financial edge creates a self-reinforcing cycle. Promoted clubs often lack the resources to compete, leading to swift relegation. Meanwhile, parachute-funded sides dominate the Championship, making it harder for others to break through.
“The result? A Premier League ecosystem that increasingly favours the same group of clubs – less a meritocracy, more a trampoline for the fallen elite.”
