Premier League firmly rejects revamped European Super League proposal despite legal ruling

The Premier League remains steadfast in its opposition to the concept of a European Super League, rejecting new proposals that have emerged despite ongoing resistance.

The league responded to a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice, which deemed UEFA’s previous blockage of the initial proposal in 2021 as unlawful, giving momentum to a revitalised Super League plan.

Outlined in the new proposal is a 64-team men’s competition structured across three tiers with promotion and relegation, accompanied by a corresponding women’s tournament. Six Premier League clubs, initially part of the 12-team proposal two-and-a-half years ago, withdrew their support due to vehement opposition from fans.

Underscoring the significance of supporters’ sentiments, the English top-flight competition reiterated its commitment to the principles of open competition. The Premier League acknowledged the ruling’s importance and expressed its intention to thoroughly assess its implications for the sport.

Declaring that the ruling does not endorse the European Super League, the Premier League emphasised its ongoing rejection of such a concept.

“The Premier League reiterates its commitment to the clear principles of open competition that underpin the success of domestic and international club competitions,” a Premier League statement read.

“Football thrives on the competitiveness created by promotion and relegation, the annual merit-based qualification from domestic leagues and cups to international club competitions and the longstanding rivalries and rituals that come with weekends being reserved for domestic football.

“The Premier League will continue to engage in an open and constructive dialogue, with all relevant football stakeholders, on how best to protect and enhance the complementary balance of domestic and international club football.”

The original six Premier League representatives – Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Chelsea – who were part of the initial 12-team proposal, have distanced themselves from the renewed efforts. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Real Madrid remain proponents of the breakaway plans despite the prevailing opposition.