FC Augsburg got more out of its budget than any other Bundesliga club last season. Spending 125 million euros to earn 43 points, the cost per point was just 2.9 million euros, securing the Fuggerstädter top spot in the league's efficiency table.

The analysis reveals that 14 Bundesliga rivals outspent Augsburg. Only three clubs operated with a smaller budget. FC St. Pauli, who had the league's smallest budget, were ultimately relegated. The runner-up in efficiency was SC Freiburg, who spent 143 million euros for 47 points, averaging 3.0 million euros per point. Hamburger SV shared third place with Freiburg.

Bayern and Wolfsburg at the bottom

At the opposite end of the scale is FC Bayern Munich. The record champions spent 881 million euros, resulting in a cost of 9.9 million euros per point, placing them last. The case of VfL Wolfsburg is also notable, as they were relegated to the 2. Bundesliga despite a point cost of 8.7 million euros. The table was compiled by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung (FAS). 1. FC Heidenheim is absent from the listing due to the club having a different financial year.

Continuity despite limited means

FC Augsburg has now maintained its Bundesliga status for over a decade, despite consistently being among the clubs with the smallest budgets. This success is built on smart transfer policy and a strong identification with the region. Since 2021, Global Football Holdings has held a 45% stake in the professional department, providing additional stability. The Fuggerstädter continue to rely on players from the local area, which is also reflected in the squad list.

This economic efficiency provides a solid foundation for the present sporting campaign. Augsburg has started the 2026/27 season strongly, sitting third in the table with seven points from three matchdays. Under manager Enrico Maaßen, the team's recent form shows three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five competitive matches. Their last outing was a 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen on September 12, with Michael Gregoritsch scoring both Augsburg goals. Gregoritsch is also the team's current top scorer this season with three goals in three appearances.

The next challenge is an away fixture against Werder Bremen on September 19. Bremen currently occupy tenth place. The current standings also show how close the team already is to the top. For the upcoming tasks, the squad will have to manage without the injured Faik Sakar, whose status is noted on the injuries list. FC Augsburg proves that continuity and smart planning can lead to success in the Bundesliga.

Background and full detail: Augsburger Allgemeine