Chelsea and sister club Strasbourg (both under BlueCo ownership) have completed 12 transfers this season alone, sparking debate on multi-club ownership (MCO). The latest saw David Datro Fofana join Strasbourg on loan on deadline day, with Emmanuel Emegha set to move the other way soon. Many deals involve loans for development minutes or fees, benefiting Chelsea’s squad planning but raising concerns about fairness. Strasbourg fans feel their club is becoming a “feeder” or development arm, with some calling it humiliating. Finance expert Kieran Maguire notes transfers may occur at prices suiting investors rather than fair market value. FIFA and UEFA are monitoring MCO closely for potential distortions in transfer activity and conflicts of interest, though action so far is limited (e.g., disqualifications in competitions). While the model helps player pathways, critics argue it undermines competitive balance and the spirit of the game.
Source: BBC Sport