EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

115. Dynamic Interplay of Sports, Social, and Economic Factors in the English Premier League: A Network DEA Approach

Invited abstract in session WB-40: Sports analytics, stream Sports and Entertainment.

Wednesday, 10:30-12:00
Room: Newlyn LG.02

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Marios Kremantzis
University of Bristol Business School, University of Bristol
2. Yixin He
University of Bristol Business School
3. Siwei Xiao
University of Birmingham
4. Aniekan Essien
University of Bristol Business School
5. Umair Tanveer
University of Exeter
6. Ali Emrouznejad
Surrey Business School, University of Surrey
7. Shamaila Ishaq
Warwick Business School, University of Warwick

Abstract

This study evaluates the operational and profit efficiency of English Premier League (EPL) clubs from 2016/17 to 2019/20 using a novel Dynamic Network Data Envelopment Analysis (DNDEA) model under the Variable Returns to Scale (VRS) assumption. By integrating dynamic and network structures, the model captures the interplay between economic, sporting, and social factors, addressing limitations of traditional DEA approaches that treat production processes as static "black boxes." Results reveal two distinct clusters: high-performing clubs that achieve competitive outcomes with limited financial inputs through effective resource management, and financial giants that excel in revenue generation but struggle to translate investments into consistent sporting success. Dynamic analysis shows system efficiency peaked in 2016/17 before declining sharply in 2018/19, driven by imbalances between escalating financial investments and stagnating on-field performance. Operational inefficiencies in Stage 1 (resource conversion) were more critical than those in Stage 2 (profit generation), underscoring challenges in aligning short-term investments with long-term sustainability. The study advances sports analytics by providing a holistic framework for evaluating football club efficiency, emphasizing actionable strategies such as optimizing talent acquisition, prioritizing dual-return investments, and leveraging fan engagement.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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