Key Highlights
- Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan says the club’s administration is a “huge relief.”
- The Owls were placed in administration on Friday due to financial troubles under Thai owner Dejphon Chansiri.
- Begbies Traynor, an insolvency firm, has taken control of the club.
- Up to five parties are interested in buying Sheffield Wednesday.
The Crisis at Sheffield Wednesday: A Brief History
Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, commonly known as Sheffield Wednesday, has been embroiled in financial troubles since 2015 when Thai businessman Dejphon Chansiri took over the club. Under his ownership, the club faced numerous challenges and controversies that led to its current state of administration.
The Struggles Begin: June 2025
On Friday, October 27, 2025, Sheffield Wednesday was placed in administration by insolvency firm Begbies Traynor. This decision came as a result of the club’s ongoing financial problems, which had reached a crisis point earlier that summer. The move has significant implications for the team and its fans.
Financial Troubles Unfold: June 2025 – October 2025
The financial troubles at Sheffield Wednesday began to surface in mid-June when the club was charged with breaching EFL regulations regarding payment obligations. This was followed by a series of embargoes and penalties imposed by the English Football League (EFL) due to late payments, including failing to pay players and staff.
By June 27, Chansiri had announced his willingness to sell the club, but this did not alleviate the financial pressures. On July 30 and August 13, further embargoes were imposed as outstanding payments continued to be overdue.
The Club’s Response: Administration
On October 24, 2025, Sheffield Wednesday officially filed for administration after failing to meet its financial obligations. This move led to an automatic 12-point deduction in the Championship league, leaving the club with a precarious position.
The New Chapter: Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges, Bannan expressed hope that this new chapter could bring about positive changes. He stated, “I think at the minute it’s a huge sigh of relief. Obviously, the way we were going it was becoming difficult.
Month by month we didn’t feel there was anything around the club that was positive.” The EFL and administrators are optimistic about selling the club quickly to new owners.
With up to five parties interested in purchasing Sheffield Wednesday, there is a sense of optimism among both the club and their fanbase. Captain Barry Bannan highlighted the unity within the team during this challenging period: “The players have been amazing. The staff as well. At the training ground and at the stadium, they’ve all come together and got on with it and done their jobs brilliantly and professionally.”
Looking Ahead
The future of Sheffield Wednesday remains uncertain, but the club’s administration marks a new beginning. Fans will be watching closely as negotiations progress to find a suitable owner who can stabilize the club financially and provide support for the team.
