A statement from the European Super League signals intent to continue as planned, despite the withdrawal of the Big Six clubs in the Premier League.
While the proposed breakaway from the Champions League threatened to ruin football as we know it, fans across England made their opinions known, with clubs caving late last night and announcing their withdrawals from the competition, one by one.
MORE: “I want to apologise to Jurgen” – Liverpool owner John Henry makes statement after Super League fiasco
Without the Premier League’s Big Six, you’d think that the Super League would have little chance of being super, but there does look to be intent to continue with the plans which were initially proposed, rather than abandon them completely.
A statement from the Super League is quoted by the BBC’s Simon Stone.
Super League statement: The ESL ‘is convinced that current status quo of European football needs to change. We are proposing a new European competition because the existing system does not work.
— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) April 21, 2021
“Proposal aimed at allowing sport to evolve while generating resources + stability for football pyramid, inc helping to overcome financial difficulties exp by football community as a result of pandemic. Would provide materially enhanced solidarity payments to all stakeholders.
— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) April 21, 2021
“Despite announced departure of the English clubs, forced to take such decisions due to the pressure put on them, we are convinced our proposal is fully aligned with Euro law + regulations as was demonstrated today by a court decision to protect the SL from third party actions.”
— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) April 21, 2021
The plausibility of it continuing is unclear at this point in time. Obviously, the cash pool would be smaller for those involved, but they would still be able to distribute wealth more favourably than if they were to rejoin the ECA and compete in the Champions League.
Perhaps it’s merely a matter of those involved not wanting to be seen to throw in the towel so easily, or they really could be ready and willing to proceed without Premier League involvement. We’ll have to wait and see.