Demonstrating substantial experience in the Court of Arbitration for Sport, complex salary disputes and disciplinary cases, Centrefield LLP fields a ‘very hardworking’ group, regularly acting on behalf of high-profile athletes and sports associations. The Manchester-based outfit is also known for providing ’unrivalled knowledge’ regarding player contracts, agent arrangements and regulatory issues, with Matthew Bennett being an expert in football transfers and immigration issues. Stuart Baird has vast expertise in disciplinary cases and alleged breaches of FA regulations, Edward Canty is a strong arbitrator in complex football claims, while David Bentham is knowledgeable on sponsorship arrangements and endorsements. Oliver Sadler primarily focuses on commercial matters in sport and media, while Philip Bonner and Alex Brooks are also key members of the practice.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very responsible and knowledgeable about the football industry.’
‘Matthew Bennett is very experienced and understands football.’
Key clients
- Manchester United Football Club
- Manchester City Football Club
Work highlights
- Assisting and advising Jordan Henderson and his representatives in connection with: (i) his departure from Liverpool Football Club to join Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Arabia Pro League; and (ii) his subsequent departure from Al-Ettifaq and move to European giants Ajax.
- Advised on football transfers both within the women's and men's games, acting on deals with a combined value of over £1.5bn.