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A tailored approach to reputation management in the football world

A Premier League football club director faced termination over allegations linked to private messages, resulting in adverse media coverage and reputational harm. The case raised critical issues relating to employment law, breach of contract, reputation management, and potential litigation. The client sought our support to protect his professional future, shield his family from harmful online content, and avoid conflicts with football clubs. Through strategic advice, legal interventions, and data protection laws, we worked to mitigate damage, remove adverse online content, and safeguard his long-term prospects in the industry.

Preserving professional relationships

Preserving the client’s standing within the football industry was a central part of our strategy. We began by engaging with the club’s legal representatives through the ACAS early conciliation process, aiming for an amicable resolution to the dispute. Despite the club’s rigid stance, this approach demonstrated the client’s willingness to resolve matters constructively, helping to preserve goodwill and professional relationships.

We carefully assessed legal options, including a potential employment tribunal claim for unfair dismissal. However, the limited prospects of success and the risks of adverse costs made this route unviable. We advised against proceeding, helping the client avoid unnecessary financial exposure and reputational harm. This measured approach reflected our commitment to prioritising long-term outcomes over short-term solutions.

Removing adverse online content

Negative media coverage posed a significant and enduring threat to the client’s reputation and personal life. Protecting his family from encountering harmful content online was a top priority. We relied on data protection laws, including the Right to Be Forgotten, to address this issue. To strengthen these efforts, we advised the client to submit a Subject Access Request (SAR) to retrieve the original messages central to the allegations.

Accessing this information was crucial for demonstrating inaccuracies and providing context to strengthen applications for removing damaging search results. Our team also communicated with search engines and media outlets, advocating for the removal or delisting of adverse publications. This dual approach mitigated harmful content both legally and practically, aligning with the client’s goal of regaining control over his online presence.

Constructive engagement and innovative solutions

Beyond legal measures, we explored non-confrontational ways to resolve the situation. The client’s membership in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) provided a valuable opportunity to engage the club through a neutral mediator. By fostering dialogue via the PFA, we aimed to bridge the gap between the parties while avoiding contentious litigation.

We also reframed the client’s concerns about the club’s actions from a commercial perspective. Highlighting shared interests, such as safeguarding the club’s reputation and business relationships, provided an innovative angle for engagement. This approach demonstrated our ability to think creatively and strategically, focusing on mutually beneficial outcomes.

Comprehensive support and positive outcomes

Throughout the process, we acted as more than legal advisors. We became trusted partners, offering reassurance and clarity during moments of frustration and uncertainty. When certain options, such as defamation claims or arbitration, were deemed too risky, we provided honest assessments and focused on alternative strategies. Our commitment was to protect the client’s interests while ensuring all viable options were explored. Ultimately, we helped the client regain control of their narrative.

By addressing reputational harm, removing harmful online content, and preserving relationships within the football industry, we positioned the client for a strong and positive future.

Solicitor’s thoughts on the case

This case highlighted the complexity and sensitivity of reputation management, particularly in the high-profile and high-stakes environment of the Premier League. It required not only a deep understanding of the legal landscape—including employment law, data protection, and potential litigation—but also the ability to navigate a range of stakeholders with conflicting interests. Engaging with a Premier League club, a professional association, media outlets, and search engines demanded a strategic and diplomatic approach at every stage.
One of the key challenges was maintaining discretion while delivering honest, sometimes difficult, advice. As solicitors, it is our responsibility to present the truth, even when it may not align with what our client hopes to hear.

In this case, we had to recognise that certain legal options, such as an employment tribunal claim or defamation proceedings, carried significant risks and limited chances of success. These were difficult conversations to have, but they were essential for ensuring our client was fully informed and able to make the best decisions for their future. At the heart of our approach was the trust our client placed in us. This trust enabled us to act with genuine care for their reputation and personal affairs, knowing how much was at stake for their family and professional aspirations. Our commitment to thoroughness meant exploring all possible avenues, whether through the Professional Footballers’ Association, data protection laws, or innovative strategies such as highlighting mutual commercial interests with the club. Each step was carefully designed to protect the client’s reputation and future prospects.

Balancing these legal and strategic efforts with the emotional toll of such a public and personal crisis added another layer of complexity. Our role extended beyond legal representation—we were a steady source of guidance and support, ensuring the client felt understood and empowered throughout the process. Reflecting on this case, I am reminded of the importance of thinking outside the box. Reputation management is not just about litigation or reactive measures; it is about crafting proactive, tailored strategies that align with a client’s unique goals and challenges. Above all, it is about prioritising their well-being, reputation, and future—principles at the core of everything we do.