Thursday morning marked a significant decision by the European Court of Justice concerning the potential establishment of a European Super League.
In essence, Barcelona and Real Madrid, the only two teams that hadn’t excluded themselves from the Super League proposal initially suggested in 2021 (which ultimately collapsed after all other clubs withdrew), along with A22, a sports development firm formed to aid in creating the ESL, were proven correct in their attempt to demonstrate that UEFA and FIFA held a monopoly, violating the EU’s Competition and Free Movement Law.
Following this outcome, both Florentino Perez, Real Madrid’s president, and Joan Laporta, Barcelona’s president, swiftly issued strong statements about the future of the sport now being within the clubs’ control.
However, their satisfaction in being justified might be short-lived, given that clubs have begun releasing their own statements distancing themselves from the project and expressing support for UEFA and FIFA’s initiatives.
At present, it seems challenging to envision any future for the European Super League in any form. Although, if the notion shifts from an idealistic concept to convincing clubs that they could significantly benefit financially, the situation might sway back in favor of A22.
For now, reputable journalist and CaughtOffside columnist, Fabrizio Romano, has been documenting every time a club issues a statement opposing the Super League—a list that appears to be expanding continually.
🚨🔵 Official: Chelsea reject the Super League.
“Our position does NOT change”.
“We firmly believe that, by working with the Premier League, FA, other European clubs through our strong relationship with the ECA, UEFA, FIFA, we can together continue to develop the European game… pic.twitter.com/3226Or5uYp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 21, 2023
🚨🔴 Manchester United statement on Super League.
“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… pic.twitter.com/leDAlStyP7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 21, 2023