FC Cologne surprised: Despite relegation, they made a profit of 5.4 million euros!

FC Cologne surprised: Despite relegation, they made a profit of 5.4 million euros!

1. FC Köln has every reason to celebrate. At the most recent general meeting in the RheinEnergie Stadium, managing director Philipp Türoff presented the business figures for the past second division year. Despite the sporting challenges that came with relegation to the second division, the club reported a profit of 5.4 million euros. Compared to the previous year, when the Cologne team still played in the Bundesliga and generated a profit of 11.8 million euros, this shows a decline. But under these circumstances the numbers can be seen as quite positive. How bild.de reported, a total turnover of 150.8 million euros was achieved, which is below the 159 million euros of the previous year, but was stabilized through various measures.

Türoff emphasized that the winter transfer of keeper Jonas Urbig to FC Bayern Munich, which brought in around 7 million euros, contributed significantly to the positive balance. With additional bonus payments, the sum could even rise to up to 11 million euros. In addition to the transfer activities, there were also successes in the DFB Cup, which relieved the club's financial burden. The team reached the quarter-finals and received 3.14 million euros. Further positive sales contributions came from record numbers in merchandise and from extensions with sponsors.

Financial stability and outlook

Philipp Türoff emphasized the economic stability of the club and the timely fulfillment of all financial obligations. Another important point was the decline in liabilities, which were reduced from 37.8 million euros in the previous year to 32.2 million euros. At the same time, equity increased from 26 million euros to 29.4 million euros. These key figures show a positive development that the club would like to see in the future. Türoff said that a “black zero” could be aimed for next year, although further investments in the squad for the Bundesliga are planned in the event of a possible relegation.

The club has received the license for the current season without any conditions, which further reassures those responsible. The repayment of 14 million euros from interest-bearing financing obligations is also on the agenda. This shows that the club relies on a responsible financial strategy. In order to continue to ensure the highly demanded training and game operations, the club invested 25 million euros in 12 new signings such as Ragnar Ache and Isak Johannesson in the summer.

Members and emotions

There were over 5,000 members present at the meeting eagerly awaiting the presentation. The words of outgoing president Werner Wolf, who is handing over the club in an economically healthy state, also brought emotional moments. He spoke about the challenges and successes of the past few years and encouraged members to look to the future with optimism.

Overall, 1. FC Cologne shows that it has a good hand for economic stability and future prospects even in difficult times. The targeted transfers and solid strategic planning give hope for a successful return to the Bundesliga. At least on paper, the club appears to be well prepared.