Whether or not the European Super League (ESL) can go ahead is in doubt. Since its announcement a few days ago, the proposed football tournament has come under a lot of criticism. And now a number of teams have withdrawn from joining.
12 clubs from around Europe originally agreed to be involved. This included English teams Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, and top sides from Spain and Italy.
However, it’s likely the project cannot happen now as AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid join the six Premier League clubs in withdrawing. Real Madrid and Barcelona are yet to make their position clear.
Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli, one of the chief architects of the breakaway plans, remains convinced of the beauty of the project. He still believes it would add value in developing the pyramid and create the best competition in the world.
Listening to the fans
The six Premier League teams all pulled out within hours of each other on Tuesday after furious backlash. Manchester City withdrew first, as Chelsea voiced their intentions to do so too. The other four sides followed suit later on Tuesday evening.
Further withdrawal announcements came on Wednesday morning from some of the Spanish and Italian sides.
Atletico Madrid said “harmony is essential” between the club and the fans, and “sporting merits must prevail over any other criteria”.
Whilst Serie A side Inter Milan said they were “committed to giving fans the best football experience”.
AC Milan commented that “the voices and the concerns of fans around the world have clearly been expressed” and the club “must be sensitive to the voice of those who love this wonderful sport”.
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