Wednesday, 29th May, 2013
Toulouse president Olivier Sadran has painted a picture of despair for his club’s future, predicting a "slow and disastrous death" unless revenues improve.
The Pink City club have been facing increasing economic pressure in the last few seasons, resulting in an exodus of players to league rivals as well as abroad.
Their performances in the league have belied their internal problems, with consistent mid-table finishes, and they secured a respectable 10th place this season.
However, with France as a nation having slipped into recession and the effects being felt across Ligue 1, Sadran remains doubtful over improving fortunes, especially with major sponsors pulling out.
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He told French daily La Depeche: "What is worrying is that the club is going through a very difficult economic period.
"The decline in attendance and sponsorship, which affects the vast majority of clubs is massive and causes a slow death and disaster."
It is not the first time that Toulouse have faced financial problems, with a decline in 1994 leading to a drop down the leagues. A return in 1997 sparked a revival, culminating in European appearances in both the UEFA Cup and the Champions League in the last decade.
However, next season is proving a harder task for Sadran, who has also had to battle dissatisfaction amongst the fans over mediocre results, as he envisioned a further slide, both on and off the field.
"Our budget is not only down, but we are also in deficit", Sadran added. "We probably did not do any good in the league, but we had sold a lot of players this season, allowing us to have a positive financial outcome.
"I alert everyone to the fact that without the support of businesses and spectators at one time or another, the future of the club will be very complicated.
"We have young players who are very good. But there is no chance we will recruit three to five players to build.
"It is reasonable to say that we will finish between the 5th and 15th. And if anyone has any better ideas, let him come…with his chequebook!"
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