Sheffield Wednesday Face EFL Charges Over Unpaid Player Wages
Sheffield Wednesday Football Club is facing serious repercussions after being charged by the English Football League (EFL) for “multiple breaches” of regulations related to payment obligations. The charges stem from the club’s failure to pay players’ salaries on time in March, attributed to “cashflow” issues, and further reported payment problems in May, which allegedly extended to non-playing staff and other employees.
The EFL has expressed its concern over the situation, describing it as “clearly concerning” and stating that it is “considering all the options available.” The governing body has now initiated formal action against the Championship club.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the EFL confirmed the charges against Sheffield Wednesday, stating, “Sheffield Wednesday Football Club has been charged with multiple breaches of EFL regulations relating to payment obligations.”
Furthermore, the club’s owner, Dejphon Chansiri, has also been charged. The EFL alleges that Chansiri caused the club to breach regulations despite his commitment to funding the club’s financial needs.
The charges against both the club and Chansiri relate to the failure to meet obligations to pay players’ wages on time and in full during March and May 2025. Both parties have been given 14 days to respond to the charges.
The news comes after Sheffield Wednesday finished 12th in the Championship, a season overshadowed by financial concerns. Manager Danny Rohl has also been linked with a potential move away from the club during the summer.
In response to the EFL’s announcement, Sheffield Wednesday issued a statement acknowledging the charges. Chansiri offered his “sincere apologies” to all those affected, stating that the club is actively seeking a resolution to the outstanding salary issues for May “at the earliest possible opportunity.”
The club’s statement read, “Sheffield Wednesday acknowledge the statement issued by the EFL on Tuesday afternoon. The club continue to seek a resolution regarding outstanding salaries due for the month of May at the earliest possible opportunity. Mr Chansiri sincerely apologises to all players, coaches and staff affected and everyone connected with the club.”
The outcome of the EFL’s investigation could have significant implications for Sheffield Wednesday, potentially leading to sanctions such as points deductions or transfer embargoes. The situation highlights the ongoing financial challenges faced by many clubs in the English Football League.
