Dynamic interplay of sports, social, and economic factors in the English Premier League: A network DEA approach

Abstract

This study evaluates the operational and revenue generation efficiency of English Premier League (EPL) clubs from 2014/15 to 2023/24 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 decomposes club performance into sequential stages, specifically operational conversion and revenue generation, and traces the intertemporal transmission of economic, sporting, and social factors. Unlike traditional static DEA models that treat efficiency as time-invariant and “black-boxed”, the DNDEA model provides a temporal-diagnostic lens that detect shifts in efficiency trajectories and inter-stage feedback across seasons. Results reveal two enduring archetypes: 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 2014/15 before declining sharply in 2015/16 and 2018/19, respectively, 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 (revenue 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.