The football world was thrown into a frenzy when 12 clubs decided to announce the start of an European Super League.
Man City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan were the heavyweights who all got into the idea.
However, the decision faced criticism globally from fans and other clubs alike, with the likes of UEFA and the Premier League also releasing statements to condemn the ‘greedy ‘initiative.
A statement from UEFA read: The greatest sport is based on open competition, integrity & sporting merit & we will never allow that to change. This idea is a spit in the face of all football lovers & our society. We must not let them take it away from us”
“The players that play in the Super League will be banned from playing in the World Cup and Euros,” said the UEFA president as per Goal.
“We will take all the sanctions that we can.”
In the same vein, a statement from the Premier League read: “The Premier League condemns any proposal that attacks the principles of open competition and sporting merit which are at the heart of the domestic and European football pyramid.”
“Fans of any club in England and across Europe can currently dream that their team may climb to the top and play against the best. We believe that the concept of a European Super League would destroy this dream.”
“The Premier League is proud to run a competitive and compelling football competition that has made it the most widely watched league in the world. Our success has enabled us to make an unrivalled financial contribution to the domestic football pyramid.”
“A European Super League will undermine the appeal of the whole game, and have a deeply damaging impact on the immediate and future prospects of the Premier League and its member clubs, and all those in football who rely on our funding and solidarity to prosper.”
As at the time of writing, all the English clubs bowed to pressure and criticism and have now pulled out of the Europa Super League.
UEFA’s 55 member associations unanimously approve a declaration strongly condemning the so-called ‘Super League’ at #UEFACongress.
“…It goes against the very concept of what it is to be European: unified, open, supportive, and principled on sporting values…”
Full story: 👇
— UEFA (@UEFA) April 20, 2021
