Hull City owner Acun Ilicali has strongly defended the club after it was handed a three-window transfer ban by the Football League for failing to pay transfer fees.
The punishment stems from Hull’s non-payment of a £1 million loan fee for Aston Villa winger Louie Barry, who was previously a target for Derby County. The club also had outstanding fees owed to Manchester City for the loan of Fin Burns, though Ilicali says that amount has now been settled.
Concerns have grown among supporters over the club’s financial stability, especially with reports that suppliers are still awaiting payment and the club posted £60 million in losses in their most recent financial accounts.
Ilicali addressed the situation, stating:
“There are no problems between us and Aston Villa regarding Louie Barry or Jaden Philogene. We are fully confident in our appeal.”
He added that the issue with Fin Burns was straightforward:
“We planned to use funds from a player sale to cover the cost, but when the EFL told us this wasn’t permitted – for reasons beyond our control – we made the payment directly to resolve it immediately.”
On supplier debts, Ilicali admitted a temporary cash flow problem:
“We were due to receive £1.5 million from a player sale, which was meant to settle outstanding invoices. Since that money hasn’t come in yet, I’ve stepped in to cover the gap and our team is working with all suppliers to resolve any delays.”
He continued:
“I’ve been upfront with fans – the club is operating at a loss, and I continue to provide financial support when needed. There is no conflict with any club. If there were any minor administrative mistakes, we trust the EFL will take that into account during the appeal.”
Despite outside speculation, Ilicali remained positive:
“People will say what they want – that’s part of life. But I will always stand by this club. Our squad has £100 million worth of potential, we have a top manager, amazing fans, and if we stick together, we can achieve great things.”
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