European clubs reject revamped Super League after EU verdict
Following the ruling, the European Super League backers A22 announced revamped plans for a league system that would include 64 Men's clubs and 32 Women's clubs.
Major clubs and leagues across Europe have rejected the revamped European Super League after the European Court of Justice ruled on Thursday that it was unlawful for UEFA and FIFA to block clubs from joining the Super League.
Following the ruling, the European Super League backers A22 announced revamped plans for a league system that would include 64 Men’s clubs and 32 Women’s clubs.
Manchester United were one of the first to say they remain committed to playing in competitions run by Europe’s soccer governing body UEFA, as did German champions Bayern Munich.
United were one of the 12 clubs involved in the formation of the breakaway Super League in April 2021 but pulled out due to pressure from fans, governments, and players.
“Our position has not changed. We remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions, and to positive cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and fellow clubs through the ECA on the continued development of the European game,” the club said.
Bayern Munich said they were committed to UEFA competitions, saying the door for the Super League “remains closed” for the German champions.
“The Bundesliga is the foundation of FC Bayern, just as all national leagues are the foundation of other European football clubs,” Bayern CEO Jan Christian Dreesen said.
“It is therefore our duty and our deep conviction to strengthen them, not to weaken them. We are also committed to the European club competitions under the umbrella of UEFA.”
Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur were the other five Premier League clubs involved before pulling out.
The European Club Association (ECA), which represents nearly 500 clubs across the continent, said the football world had “moved on from the Super League years ago”.
“Through ECA, clubs today are already at the heart of decision-making in relation to the competitions they participate in,” the ECA said.
Meanwhile, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid remain the only two clubs who have declared their commitment to the breakaway league,
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta claims the European Super League is not an attack on national leagues and will help them become more balanced and competitive, adding that the ESL will help Barcelona control its own destiny.
Story By; Princeton Wiredu
