La Liga president Javier Tebas has once again aimed criticism at the Premier League while giving the example of Manchester United.
The Spanish football chief has regularly questioned the financial model of English clubs.
He believes teams in Spain operate more efficiently, especially when it comes to recruitment and long-term planning. Now, he has made that point again.
Speaking about transfer spending, Tebas claimed Premier League clubs often fail to use their money wisely.
He pointed to several examples and suggested that heavy investment does not always translate into success on the pitch. Tebas said (via ESPN):
“It’s not me saying it, there are reports that say it. (The reports) say that the teams which are most effective in spending on players are Spanish. It is what it is.”
Recent results in Europe have only strengthened his argument. All six Premier League teams reached the knockout stages of the Champions League.
However, four of them exited this week. Three suffered defeats against Spanish opposition.
Real Madrid knocked out Manchester City. Barcelona eliminated Newcastle United. Atletico Madrid overcame Tottenham. Each tie highlighted the strength of La Liga sides.
Tebas believes there is a clear reason behind it. He insisted Spanish clubs focus more on academy development and structured planning rather than relying purely on big-money signings.
Then he gave an example of Manchester United and their record signing, Antony. He said:
“There are a lot of examples. Look at the case of Antony, the money he cost (Manchester United, €95 million), and then what he cost Real Betis.
“How many players sign for Premier League clubs and then end up playing here? In my opinion, yes, (La Liga clubs more efficient).
“And the Spanish football model is more focused on academies. We don’t need that spending.”
According to Tebas, the Premier League model risks creating instability. He warned that excessive spending could lead to long-term financial problems if clubs fail to qualify for Europe.
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