Sheffield United faces court hearing over £35m debt claim by former owners

United World, the previous ownership group of Sheffield United, says the club’s present owners, COH Sports Bidco, still owe £35 million for the 2024 takeover. A winding-up petition has been filed, with a hearing slated for August 19 to determine whether the club will be forced into administration. The filing also threatens co-owner Steve Rosen with a possible disqualification under EFL Regulation 2.1.16, which bars owners involved in two insolvencies within ten years.

Additionally, the league could impose a 12-point deduction if the owners are declared insolvent. United World issued a public statement urging payment to avoid these outcomes, while the club’s current leadership insists the organization is financially healthy and focused on the upcoming season. Sheffield United opened the Championship campaign with a goalless draw against Birmingham.