Burnley fans are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the club’s poor start to the season, which is compounded by questions over ownership.

The Clarets are at the bottom of the Championship standings, with no wins in their first eight games, as Nicky Hayen’s side appears to lack confidence.

ALK Capital, an American investment firm managed by Alan Pace, purchased the club in 2020, and they have alternated between the Premier League and the second tier since.

However, Burnley appear to be more likely to drop to the League. Pace has replied to concerns over the club’s finances and its potential return to the top division this season.

What Alan Pace said during Burnley’s Fan Advisory Board meeting

When ALK Capital bought Burnley in 2021, it was stated that the club borrowed approximately £60 million from MSD UK Holdings to help fund payments to former shareholders.

That raised initial concerns that the debt associated with the takeover might become a burden on the Lancashire club for years to come.

The Clarets’ most recent accounts, published in 2025, are also worrying, as turnover was nearly halved as a result of the club’s status as a Championship side, which they are once again.

Despite the natural concern, Burnley’s ownership feels “comfortable” with the club’s capacity to meet future financial obligations, Pace said last week’s Fan Advisory Board (FAB) meeting via Burnley Express.

According to the publication, the 58-year-old added that the club was “unequivocal” about its financial stability and prepared for a number of future situations.

Furthermore, he informed fans in attendance that more than £40 million in inter-company debt had already been repaid, while admitting that additional borrowing could occur.

What to make of Pace’s latest comments

Pace’s comments come just under three weeks before Burnley’s next game, giving fans time to process what he has said.

Of course, at this point, they are simply words, and although they may temporarily allay supporters’ fears, only time will tell if they have any substance.

Many wondered if new manager Nicky Hayen’s career would be called into question during the international break, which is an excellent moment to change leadership, but it appears that he will be supported to turn things around.

The obvious facts are that the Clarets will lose even more money after being relegated to the Championship, and if performances do not improve, January might be a key transfer window.

Can Nicky Hayen improve the Clarets’ poor defence?

While the results have clearly been alarming, the performances have not provided any relief, as the players appear to be entirely empty of confidence on the field.

Of course, the Clarets sold a number of its finest players over the summer to generate funds, including Maxime Esteve, Zian Flemming, and Jaidon Anthony, but the new players do not look to be up to par.

Burnley has conceded 17 goals, the most of any Championship team alongside Norwich City, with number one Max Weiß dropped and Hayen frequently experimenting with his defence.

Most Championship goals surrendered this season.

Total

Burnley

17. Norwich City.

Preston North End

15

Bolton Wanderers

15

Millwall

15

Kyle Walker is an experienced leader who must find a way to stay positive, rally his troops, and help them dig deep to win by any means necessary.

Anel Ahmedhodzic also brings significant experience at the back, and if he settles in alongside Igor Julio, the defence should become more solid.