European Super League disbanded as six English clubs pull out - as it happened

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The dust is still settling after English clubs bowed to supporter pressure and reduced the controversial plans for a breakaway Super League to rubble.

On a dramatic Tuesday night Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea all confirmed they intended to withdraw from the project.

In response to their departures, the Super League announced early on Wednesday morning it is considering "appropriate steps to reshape the project".

It said in a statement: "Despite the 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 European law and regulations as was demonstrated today by a court decision to protect the Super League from third party actions.

"Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project, always having in mind our goals of offering fans the best experience possible while enhancing solidarity payments for the entire football community.

"The European Super League is convinced that the current status quo of European football needs to change. We are proposing a new European competition because the existing system does not work.

"Our proposal is aimed at allowing the sport to evolve while generating resources and stability for the full football pyramid, including helping to overcome the financial difficulties experienced by the entire football community as a result of the pandemic."

Fans celebrate as news breaks that Chelsea Football Club are to withdraw from the breakaway European Super League
Fans celebrate as news breaks that Chelsea Football Club are to withdraw from the breakaway European Super League Credit: Getty

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin welcomed the withdrawal of the English clubs from the planned breakaway league.

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake. But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game.

"The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy said the club "regret the anxiety and upset caused by the proposal" while Arsenal apologised for their "mistake".

Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea were a little more prosaic in announcing their withdrawals with short statements.

But the fall-out is unlikely to end there. Ed Woodward announced he will step down as Manchester United executive vice-chairman by the end of the year while Sky Sports pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher called for changes at the top at their respective clubs, United and Liverpool.

Meanwhile the Chelsea Supporters' Trust said the position of a number of the club's board is now "untenable".

But in the meantime fans, players, managers and pundits alike were celebrating an important victory.

                                                                                                    

How the UK and European newspapers reacted

Many UK and European front pages have cheered the expected demise of the European Super League.

After departure of the British clubs, one Spanish newspaper cheekily called it Brexit. 

Maguire hails decision

Harry Maguire, the Manchester United Captain, greeted the news of the club pulling out of the Super League by saying "Let's all stay UNITED."

Rio Ferdinand, the former United captain,  said teams were "finally seeing sense". 

 And Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy hailed a "beautiful day for football". 

"Let's keep playing, let's keep fighting, let's keep dreaming," he said. 

United for sale?

Tom Morgan has looked at whether the Super League debacle cold spell the end of the Glazers' reign.

It was Joel Glazer's name in the bombshell press release launching the Super League late on Sunday that drew the sharpest intake of breath from Gary Neville.

"Big problem," the long-serving Manchester United defender said during one of his epic rants for Sky Sports this week. "He doesn't put his name on anything that man. He's intelligent, he knows what he wants."

Manchester United joint chairmen Joel Glazer (right) and Avram Glazer  Credit: PA

During Neville's last six years at Old Trafford he said he has seen the "steel" of the club's loathed American owners first hand. Yet for all the abuse the Glazers faced then, and in the decade since, nothing compared with the unmitigated humiliation they faced on Tuesday night.

Florentino Pérez, the outspoken president of debt-ridden Real Madrid, was happy to be billed publicly as the conspirator-in-chief of the ESL, but so much else about this hare-brained money-grabbing scheme appears to have been comprised under the close watch of at least Joel, who was to become its vice-chairman.

Read more:  After Ed Woodward's Man Utd departure and Super League crisis, will the Glazers sell?

Chelsea confirm withdrawal

Chelsea have confirmed the reports that they will be leaving the Super League project.

The club said in a statement shortly before 1am:

"As reported earlier this evening, Chelsea Football Club can confirm that it has begun the formal procedures for withdrawal from the group developing plans for a European Super League. Having joined the group late last week, we have now had time to consider the matter fully and have decided that our continued participation in these plans would not be in the best interests of the Club, our supporters or the wider football community."

Super League to 'reshape project'

The breakaway European Super League says it will now focus on efforts to "reshape the project".

"Despite the announced departure of the English clubs, forced to take such decisions due to the pressure on them, we are convinced our proposal is fully aligned with European law and regulations," said the statement.

"Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project, always having in mind our goals of offering fans the best experience possible while enhancing solidarity payments for the entire football community".

The remaining clubs in the Super League are Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona from Spain and Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus from Italy.

Inter Milan look likely to be the next to leave with the Italian news agency ANSA quoting a club source as saying "The Super League project in its current state is no longer considered of interest by Inter".

Uefa chief says time to 'rebuild unity'

Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin says it is time to 'move on'.

"They are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game. The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

Tuchel says 'competition and integrity counts above all else'

Chelsea boss Tuchel said club owners had to understand that "competition and integrity counts above all else".

Speaking about the fans protesting outside Stamford Bridge ahead of the Brighton game, he told the post-match press conference: "We had the feeling they support us and the team, they feel how much the team shows their commitment and passion for this game in the last weeks.

"We played in different competitions, in the Champions League, left our heart and soul on Wembley ground (in the FA Cup semi-final). This is what it's all about.

Thomas Tuchel on the touchline as Chelsea take on Brighton Credit: Richard Pelham

"This club loves competition, (it's) a very competitive club and (that's) what excites me and why I'm so happy to be here and compete in the toughest league in the world. I trust my club to take the right decisions, to be in future a competitive club.

"And we miss our fans, there's no doubt at it. Owners have got to realise that competition and integrity counts above all else. I think that the owners and the presidents who are responsible from the clubs know this.

"I cannot think anything other than they love competitions because they love to win big trophies and they have passion for football. Look what they invest, the teams they build and clubs they build. This is the most competitive league in the world and that's also because of the owners."

Sir Kenny 'relieved the club has listened to the fans'

Sir Kenny Dalglish has welcomed the news of Liverpool's withdrawal.

 

More from Arsenal: "We have heard you"

Arsenal's open letter to the fans continued: "We know it will take time to restore your faith in what we are trying to achieve here at Arsenal but let us be clear that the decision to be part of the Super League was driven by our desire to protect Arsenal, the club you love, and to support the game you love through greater solidarity and financial stability.

"Stability is essential for the game to prosper and we will continue to strive to bring the security the game needs to move forward.

"The system needs to be fixed. We must work together to find solutions which protect the future of the game and harness the extraordinary power football has to get us on the edge of our seats.

"Finally, we know this has been hugely unsettling at the end of what has been an incredibly difficult year for us all.

"Our aim is always to make the right decisions for this great football club, to protect it for the future and to take us forward. We didn't make the right decision here, which we fully accept.

"We have heard you. The Arsenal Board."

 

Ian Wright calls for Kroenke to quit

Arsenal's apology did not win over their former striker Ian Wright, who tweeted simply "KroenkeOut" in reference to the club's owner Stan Kroenke.

 

Manchester United statement

“Manchester United will not be participating in the European Super League.

"We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders.

"We remain committed to working with others across the football community to come up with sustainable solutions to the long-term challenges facing the game.”

Daniel Levy speaks

“We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal. We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid.

“We believe that we should never stand still and that the sport should constantly review competitions and governance to ensure the game we all love continues to evolve and excite fans around the world.

“We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions.”

Grovelling apology from Arsenal

"The last few days have shown us yet again the depth of feeling our supporters around the world have for this great club and the game we love.

"We needed no reminding of this but the response from supporters in recent days has given us time for further reflection and deep thought.

"It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future. 

"As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it."

Confirmation from Liverpool

Liverpool Football Club can confirm that our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.In recent days, the club has received representations from various key stakeholders, both internally and externally, and we would like to thank them for their valuable contributions.

Arsenal out: Another one bites the dust

Gary Neville and our man Jamie Carragher

are back on Sky.

Gary Neville is back on Sky, saying that he "hopes Perez fines them a 100 million euros each and they eat each other."

 He is still furious with Liverpool, he says.

"It could have been that the leeches threw him under the bus, or it could be that Ed Woodward knew that his time was finished. But he is the trunk of the tree, we need to go for the roots.

"The people have spoken. We were on the brink of anarchy."

Jamie Carragher meanwhile says: "I don't see a future for for FSG at Liverpool now."

Chelsea confirmed

Ed Woodward to resign at the end of 2021

 

This is what he had to say: “I am extremely proud to have served United and it has been an honour to work for the world’s greatest football club for the past 16 years.

“The club is well positioned for the future and it will be difficult to walk away at the end of the year.

“I will treasure the memories from my time at Old Trafford, during a period when we won the Europa League, the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. I am proud of the regeneration of the club’s culture and our return to the Manchester United way of playing." 

You can read the full report here. A disastrous 48 hours for Manchester United.

 

Official confirmation from City

Hector Bellerin the latest player to oppose

Government reaction

Oliver Dowden, the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, confirmed that the pre-announced fan-led review into the governance of English football will still go ahead as planned, and he urged the remaining Premier League clubs to abandon their plans.

Dowden said: “Good news that Chelsea and City have seen sense, and I urge the rest to follow swiftly.

“The whole ESL move shows how out-of-touch these owners are. They have completely misjudged the strength of feeling from fans, players and the whole country. Football is for the fans.

“Our fan-led review will still happen and I remain convinced of the need for reform. We must make sure this never happens again.”

Jordan Henderson could not be clearer

The latest from Spain: Barcelona and Atletico Madrid on their way out

By Luke Edwards

Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have left their co-conspirators and bitter rivals Real Madrid exposed and alone after both Spanish clubs moved closer to extracting themselves from the Super League.

Real president Florentino Perez was both the driving force and chief defender of the controversial plan to create a closed shop European league that would have wiped out crippling debts at the Bernabeu overnight.

Perez went on to Spanish television on Monday to defend the idea, insisting the league was the best way to cover Covid 19 losses, secure sustainability for some of Europe’s most glamorous clubs, while floating ideas about shorter games and claiming people the age of 24 are not interested in football.

But at the core of his scheme was shameful self interest with Real Madrid teetering on the brink of a devastating financial crisis that would leave the club more vulnerable than ever to challenge on both domestic and European fronts. Perez revealed in the interview that Real have lost around £345m since the start of the pandemic, sending overall debt spiralling dangerously out of control.

And, having thought he had found the solution and some allies in Spain, England and Italy, it all came crashing down less than 24 hours after he had insisted their resolve to launch the new league was  unstoppable.

With Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester City starting the exodus, Barcelona president Joan Laporta betrayed his misgivings when he revealed the Catalan club would not be joining the new league unless members voted for it- something they are almost certain to reject.

Catalan television station TV3 reported that the contract Barca president Joan Laporta signed with the other 11 founding member clubs included a clause that allowed the club to back out of the agreement should its members not agree.

Madrid President Florentino Perez  Credit: AP

And Laporte told Spanish media on Tuesday night that "Barcelona will NOT join the Super League until our socios vote for it. It's their club, so it's their decision."

Laporta met Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman on Tuesday to explain the club's position and has arranged to speak with club captains Lionel Messi, Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Sergi Roberto on Wednesday. 

Those meetings may be far shorter than planned as the project came crashing down around them before they were able to take place. Barcelona could even announce they plan to withdraw before the vote to spare Laporta - who was also enthusiastically behind the plan - from further embarrassment.

Atletico Madrid are also understood to have told the rest of the breakaway group they have serious concerns, although the club have so far denied that they made the decision to quit the league. Given developments elsewhere, their departure should not take long to confirm.

Given the angry mood among their own supporters and with other clubs in England already withdrawing, they will surely act before any more harm to the club’s battered reputation.

The reaction in Spain has been almost as negative to the idea as it has here, with La Liga side Real Betis summing things up when they removed the top three clubs from the La Liga table on their website.

Arsene Wenger to BeIN Sport

“I must say the biggest paradox in all of this was the English clubs. England voted for Brexit to master their own destiny. England has the strongest league in the world. By signing these documents, they were destroying the Premier League. Unbelievable.”

Sir Kenny Dalglish has spoken

Perez has had a nightmare 

Ex-Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamman said: "The existence of the Super League was shorter than Perez wanted the games to be. Well played football community."

Souness in good form

Former Premier League manager Graeme Souness expects more resignations to follow that of Woodward.

Referring to the presence of the six clubs' representatives at league meetings, Souness told Sky Sports: "For six months, nine months, they've been playing the game, knowing that next season won't apply to them. It's outrageous.

"How do they correct that situation? How can they ever go to one of those meetings again and sit there and be taken seriously? Ed Woodward's just the beginning."

The full story on Woodward's resignation from Tom Morgan

Woodward was intending to move on at the end of the season but it seems he has walked ahead of time. You can read the full story here.

Breaking: Ed Woodward resigns

Graham Potter speaks

Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter welcomed the news of Chelsea's withdrawal, having seen his club issue a statement earlier in the day vehemently against the breakaway plans.

"Very pleased. Our feelings have been known, it stands against everything we know as football. It would be wrong to create something where no threat of relegation and you want the chance to compete to play in Europe.

"If we are in a place where it is stopping, that is fantastic news. Sometimes a fan can be thought of as a consumer and we are in danger if that is the case.

"Credit to the fans for making their case, and the quicker we get back to playing for points the better."

You can follow the game (22 players, two goals, one ball - remember?) with Alan Tyers here. 

Sam Wallace latest: It is unravelling 

The Leader of the Opposition voices his support for the news

Matt Law has more details here

Including how Manchester City are expected to join Chelsea in withdrawing from the new competition. You can read the full report here.

Following a hectic day of talks and a protest outside Stamford Bridge ahead of the Blues’ game against Brighton, Chelsea decided on Tuesday night that they could not be part of ESL.Abramovich and Chelsea have recently preached on the importance of community and refuge during the global coronavirus pandemic and, ultimately, conceded that being part of an ESL breakaway positioned the club against those values.

Manchester City are also withdrawing and this is what Kevin De Bruyne had to say

The latest from Matt Law

The scenes outside Stamford Bridge

Credit: AFP
Credit: PA
Credit: Shutterstock

Latest news from Matt Law - Man City expected to be the next domino to fall

Chelsea have become the first of the so-called ‘dirty dozen’ to bow to pressure and turn their back on the European Super League after Roman Abramovich ordered documentation to be prepared to formally withdraw.

And Telegraph Sport understands that Manchester City are the next club expected to follow suit in a move that would surely see the collapse of ESL breakaway.

From Sam Dean outside Stamford Bridge

There has been a drastic and instant change of mood among the hundreds of Chelsea supporters outside Stamford Bridge tonight, as the news spread that the club was pulling out of the Super League.

From chanting against Florentino Perez and railing against the greed of modern football, there are now cries of “we’ve got our Chelsea back”. From jeering to jubilant, just like that. 

Chelsea fans jubilant

Huge news - Chelsea planning to withdraw from ESL plans

This will put Perez's 'binding agreement' claims to the test.

Luke Shaw adds his voice to Rashford, Milner and others

Remarkable scenes outside Stamford Bridge

Petr Cech is trying to calm Chelsea fans and persuade them to let the team buses enter the ground. 

Former Liverpool CEO Peter Moore speaks

Boris Johnson from earlier

"It is not in the interest of fans, not in the interest of football, how can it be right to have a situation in which you create a kind of cartel that stops clubs competing against each other, playing against each other properly, with all the hope and excitement that gives to the fans up and down the country?" Johnson told a news conference.

"If necessary, in order to protect that principle of competition we will seek, as I said, to the bodies earlier on, we will seek the legislative solution."

"What will I say to the billionaire club owners? Football is one of the great glories of our cultural heritage. Football was invented in this country, these clubs, these names, originate from famous towns and cities in our country.

"I don't think it right that they should be somehow dislocated from their hometowns and home cities and turned into international brands and commodities without any reference to the fans who have loved them all their lives and just circulate the planet propelled by the billions of banks."

He said the government will back the FA and Premier League in the hope of "thwarting this proposal before it goes much further".

Leicester City statement

"Leicester City Football Club has joined 13 of its Premier League colleagues in opposition to a European Super League and to reaffirm our commitment to the long-standing and successful structure of domestic football.

Competitive integrity and merit-based achievement are fundamental principles of the sport which, if compromised, will cause irreparable damage to the game, to the clubs whose legitimate aspirations underpin the entire football pyramid and to the communities those clubs serve.

As custodians of our respective clubs, it falls to us to uphold football’s values, the solidarity and unity that protect the future of the sport and to ensure its commercial successes help strengthen its foundations throughout the pyramid and into the grassroots game.

Football clubs exist for their supporters, whose passion and devotion are not simply a response to the game, but a fundamental and indispensable part of it. Their contribution is fed by their right to dream – a right we share a collective responsibility to protect.

Leicester City is wholly supportive of the Premier League’s position in this matter and enormously encouraged by the way football’s supporters, Government and regulators have come together to challenge this threat to the game’s future."

Who could join the "dirty dozen"?

Tom Morganhas the lowdown:

Roma and Benfica denied being in talks for vacant Super League places last night as they joined an ever-growing list of clubs condemning the breakaway. Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Sevilla also renewed a chorus of criticism, leaving nine clubs in the Uefa's top 30 yet to categorically rule themselves out.

In the governing body's coefficient league,  Salzburg, Basel and Shakhtar Donetsk are among clubs yet to dismiss the plans out of hand. Napoli are also among them, although the club's president issued an enigmatic response yesterday after he was linked with the JP Morgan-backed plan.  “JP who? I was sleeping last night,” wrote Aurelio De Laurentiis on Twitter.

Elsewhere, the rebels - which include the so-called "big six" of the Premier League, as well as six teams from LaLiga and Serie A - have faced an almost universal backlash. Nasser Al-Khelaifi, chairman and chief executive of PSG, attacked a scheme motivated "by self-interest", while the Sevilla board announced they were "proud" to have no interest in the venture.

Reports in Portuguese sports daily Record, meanwhile, said Benfica were negotiating their participation in the new planned competition. However, in a statement Benfica reiterated their commitment to the current set-up as members of the European Clubs Association (ECA).

"Benfica wishes to clarify that the information published by newspaper Record, about suggested tentative negotiations for taking part in the European Super League, are completely false and again states its complete opposition to the project," a club statement read.

Real Madrid and Super League President Florentino Perez previously said clubs like Roma and Napoli could be invited in the future to the breakaway.

Roma said in response that executives are "strongly opposed to this 'closed' system, as it fundamentally flies in the face of the spirit of the game that we all love".

"Some things are more important than money, and we remain firmly committed to Italian football on a domestic level, and to fair, open European competitions for all," a statement added. "Fans and grassroots football are at the core of our sport, and this must never be forgotten."

Bayern, the Champions League holders, also repeated their opposition as chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge wanted to make it "explicitly clear that FC Bayern will not be taking part in the Super League."

"Our members and fans reject a Super League," added Bayern president Herbert Hainer.  "As FC Bayern, it is our wish and our aim that European clubs live the wonderful and emotional competition that is the Champions League, and develop it together with UEFA. FC Bayern says no to the Super League."

The plan has been roundly condemned by both the FA, the Premier League and national associations, while Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin has warned players who take part could be banned from representing their countries in the World Cup and Euros.

John Terry

says on Instagram: "What has happened to our beautiful game?"

What we know

Prime Minister Boris Johnson

"How can it be right that you have a situation where you create a cartel?" (He's moved on from talking about NHS procurement now and is on to football). "It is anti-competition."

"What will I say to the billionaire club owners? Football is one of the great glories of our cultural heritage. They carry the names of our towns and cities. I don't think it right that they should be dislocated from their home towns and cities and just circulate the planet propelled by the billions of banks."

"Tracy Crouch is doing a fan led review. We want to back the FA, back the Premier League and thwart this proposal before it goes too much further. I don't think it is in the interest of fans or football."

Several key figures from 'the other' 14

Premier League clubs have had their say on the matter.

Read what they think about it all here.

Premier League clubs take aim at Woodward

Bem Rumsby with some news about the Man United exec, who is less than universally popular right now. Over to you, Ben:

Premier League clubs want Ed Woodward and the other architects of The Super League sanctioned personally for bringing the game into “disrepute”.Telegraph Sport has been told 14 top-flight teams discussed what action could be taken against executives at the so-called ‘Big Six’ who have signed up to the rebel competition.One of those present at the meeting said there was a reluctance to punish the clubs themselves for something most of those who worked there had no involvement in and some of whom were also “furious” about.The same source said talk instead focused on holding the likes of Manchester United executive vice-chairman Woodward – who Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday branded a “snake” – to account personally.“You might find the Football Association involved with disrepute charges,” the source added, accusing those involved of “undermining the value of the Premier League, undermining clubs below”.The source added that executives from the Big Six were “hugely shocked” by the scale of the backlash against The Super League, adding: “What they’ve got is absolute mayhem.”

West Brom news just in

West Brom have broken their silence on the proposed European Super League. Here is the statement from the Hawthorns...

"West Bromwich Albion is wholly opposed to the plans brought forward to establish a new European Super League.

As a founder member of The Football League in 1888, the club believes in the principles of fair competition; in allowing all fans to dream that this year could be their year, and with that, the knowledge that poor performance may bring the consequences of relegation.

A closed league is not one that any club outside of the so-called “Big Six” can endorse, and one it is apparent no genuine football fan – even if they follow one of those six teams - can support.

The six Premier League clubs taking this step have turned their backs on English football, dismissing any concerns for the future of our game at all levels.

To take away the dreams of millions of fans, and the opportunity for their respective clubs to earn success, cannot be allowed, and Albion will do everything within its power to preserve the integrity of competition the club helped establish 133 years ago.

We stand alongside all clubs, players and supporters who believe in open competition, and understand that the future of English football is dependent on our collective strength to oppose these divisive and selfish plans."

The Prime Minister

Boris Johnson will speak at 5pm. 

Heroes, comrades, partisans

we all stand with (checks notes) Amazon

The century of the self

Brentford buzzing

they spy an opportunity if these three big boys get drummed out of any domestic comps this term. 

Hans, are we the... goodies etc etc

The courts in Spain

Rumbsy with the context...

Oh Captains my Captains

Jason Burt writes: "The 20 Premier League captains are due to discuss issuing a joint statement in opposition to the breakaway European Super League.

The conference call is expected to take place in the next couple of days and follows conversations as to whether squads at individual clubs should respond.

However, in an echo of the #PlayersTogether initiative which was launched last year to raise funds for the NHS at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the captains are now expected to get together. It has been decided a collective approach across the Premier League would be far more effective.

There is already a Premier League captains WhatsApp group and meetings were held last year with the Premier League to discuss such issues as returning to play matches and any health and safety concerns.

The group is extended to some senior players at clubs and not just limited to captains. It appears Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is organising the latest meeting – and was instrumental the #PlayersTogether initiative along with Manchester United captain Harry Maguire."

More from Jason Burt on that here. Bet the Captain's WhatsApp group is quite something...

Word from Russia

Queen Mother of Football hits out

Financial angle

Tom Morgan has an update on the financial side of things (obviously it's all financial, but I mean the nuts and bolts)

  • The Super League rebels have signed up to a potentially historic wage cap. 
  • They want to commit to paying only 55 per cent of revenues on salaries, agent fees and transfers.
  • Politicians have consistently called for curbs on spending in the English football, particularly in the Championship where spending has averaged 107 per cent of revenue, so this might sweeten the pot if lawmakers try to get involved.
  • According to a leak by the group to the Financial Times, but subsequently confirmed by The Telegraph, 20 per cent of future revenues would be allocated on “merit” or be dependent on performance in the competition. The final 15 per cent would be shared based on broadcast audience size and clubs will be allowed to retain revenues from gate receipts and club sponsorship. Translation: USA! USA! USA!

Right then

Tyers here for the rest of the afternoon. What is first?

'Football has failed to regulate itself for decades which has directly led to this crisis — time to take back control'

If ever there was a time for fan action, this is it. If they really do walk out, don't buy merchandise, then these clubs have major problems, recommends former FA Chairman David Bernstein.

What is being proposed, a European Super League, represents the death of aspiration in football. The moment of truth has arrived. The chickens are really coming home to roost. The time for action is now. A problem that has been decades in the making is today staring football in the face. Everyone — whether it is the UK Government, the football authorities, clubs, fans, managers or players — now have to walk the walk and not just talk the talk. If ever there was a time for supporter action then this is it. 

You can read more of David's guest column for us here.

Pep Guardiola pitches himself against ownership over ESL

Pep Guardiola is on a collision course with Manchester City’s owners after attacking the European Super League and insisting: “It is not a sport when success is already guaranteed.”

Guardiola revealed he was only told about the breakaway a few hours before City were announced as a “Founding Member” of the ESL. Under the proposal there would be no relegation for the 15 biggest clubs.  

The Spaniard says this undermines the integrity of football and he has called on club owners to break their silence on the plans and explain the benefits of the midweek competition to replace the Champions League. 

“Sport is not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn’t exist,” said Guardiola. “It is not a sport. It is not a sport when success is already guaranteed. It is not a sport when it doesn’t matter if you lose. That is why, I’ve said many time, I want the best competition and the strongest competition as possible, especially the Premier League. 

“And it is not fair when one team fights and fights to arrive at the top and cannot qualify because success is already guaranteed for just a few clubs.” 

Guardiola was speaking ahead of City’s Premier League fixtures against Aston Villa, who unlike City have won the European Cup but were not invited to ESL. Next week City will play in the Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain, who have not broken away from Ligue 1. 

The former Barcelona manager insists deserving a place at Europe’s top table is an essential part of the competition. 

“I don’t know if this will change and maybe four or five clubs can go up,” he said. “What happens if the 14 or 15 don’t have a good season and will be there every time? This is not sport. This is another issue. 

“We’re going to play in the Champions League next week, we are going to try to reach the final. And next season we are going to play in European competitions because we deserve it. We want it on the pitch.” 

Guardiola says he wants more information on the proposals and believes it is unfair that the managers of the six Premier League clubs who have joined ESL have been left to be ‘spokesmen’ while owners stay silent. 

“Nobody has spoken clearly with more details on what is going to happen and what will be created,” Guardiola said.

“Clarify what the situation and the benefits and why they took the decision on these teams playing and the other teams not. Why are Ajax, who have won four Champions League, not there? They have to tell me. Don’t be cynical and say it is for other people, everyone has their own interests. If the other ones are there, people would be happy.” 

“There are presidents who can talk more clearly about what the idea is for the future and where football wants to go. That is why it is uncomfortable for us because we don’t have all the information. Nobody has appeared to say anything.” 

Bill Shankly's grandson wants Liverpool statue removed after being 'appalled and embarrassed' by FSG

A report from the Liverpool Echo quotes the grandson of Bill Shankly, Liverpool's most iconic manager, as saying he wants his statue removed from Anfield due to the "appalling and embarrassing" behviour by Liverpool's ownership group Fenway Sports Group (FSG).

Chris Carline, who runs the Shankly Foundation charity, said: "I know my Grandad has been quoted more than ever right now, and rightly so, because what is going on couldn't be further removed from what he wanted for this football club."

"I'm appalled and embarrassed. When you talk about Liverpool Football Club and its history and its roots, you could reference seven, eight or nine of grandad's quotes which are all appropriate to the current situation - socialism, greed and the Holy Trinity - but I also think about one of the less well known comments. It's from his book, when he spoke about wanting to bring the football club closer to the fans and the fans closer to the football club. And he achieved that."

"Given the chance I'd happily see the statue removed. What hurts most is that Liverpool has a history and a tradition, created by him, of doing things the right way and to be one of the six clubs pushing for this move is unacceptable."

Carline also expressed sympathy for current manager Jurgen Klopp and his squad: "I feel sorry for Jurgen Klopp, for the players because they have not been consulted about this and obviously the fans haven't been spoken to. The owners have met in secret and have come to this decision based on greed."

The Liverpool Echo's front page this morning questioned what the late, great Bill Shankly would've thought of the developments.

The Liverpool Echo's front page this morning Credit: Kwee Ping 

Amazon Prime Video 'shares concerns' about ESL

As with BT Sport and Sky, who also hold broadcast rights of football in the UK, Amazon Prime Video has released a statement distancing themselves from the proposed European Super League.

"Amazon Prime Video understands and shares the concerns raised by football fans," the statement read. "We believe part of the drama and beauty of European football comes from the ability of any club to achieve success through their performance on the pitch."

"We have not been involved in any discussions for this proposed Super League."

Which clubs could make up the ESL shortfall?

Ivan Gazidis defends Super League proposal

AC Milan chief executive Ivan Gazidis, the former chief executive of Arsenal, said that the proposed breakaway Super League will be good for the club and for whole of football.

"We're confident that this new competition will capture the imagination of billions of soccer fans all over the world and will be a new, exciting chapter for the game," Gazidis wrote in a letter to Milan's sponsors and commercial partners.

"The Super League will provide value and support to the whole soccer pyramid with greater financial resources."

Gazidis added that Milan does not want to leave Serie A as a result of the move, with his side nine points behind leaders Inter Milan in this season's competition.

"It will remain the most important weekend competition in Italy and Milan is proud to remain," he wrote. 

Meanwhile, AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli said he was focussing on matters on the pitch when asked about the ESL: "I listen to the advice of my club who asked me to focus on working on the action on the pitch." 

"Then in the future we will evaluate what will happen, but this is not the time. In Italian football no one gives you anything," Pioli added. 

Brendan Rodgers believes Leicester's miraculous title win 'accelerated' ESL plans

Brendan Rodgers has insisted the European Super League proposals are driven by greed and said Leicester’s title win in 2016 underlines why sport can be exciting and unpredictable, reports John Percy.

Leicester lifted the Premier League under Claudio Ranieri five years ago while Rodgers is in contention to finish in the top-four this season.

He said: “The game is for the supporters and in turn the players. There has been a line drawn in the sand here and it’s moved into what looks a purely business proposal.”

“The merits of teams and rewards in sporting competition, it looks from the outside that isn’t really taken into the ideas going forward.”

“Has Leicester winning the league accelerated those plans? It will have played a part. Throughout Europe Leicester is maybe not what is wanted. The story shows what can happen in sport. Our job was to disrupt the market.” 

“Whether you’re self-appointed in top six… what defines it? Clearly must be money.”

Leicester's 2016 title win was one of the greatest and most unlikely moments in sporting history Credit: Nick Potts /PA

TV broadcasters still hold key to success of European Super League

One of the great allures of the Super League for Ed Woodward, according to one friendly rival, is the possibility of taking control of the TV cameras at Old Trafford, reports Tom Morgan.

"He falls asleep dreaming of a global Manchester United streaming service," insists the fellow Premier League boardroom figure of the club's executive vice-chairman.

The top tier's short-lived and disastrous venture into pay-per-view last year helped the big six rebels illustrate frustrations at sharing from a collective pot of TV money. One game involving lesser lights caused particular dismay by attracting an audience well below 10,000.

You can read Tom's full report here.

Super League driven by 'self-interest', says PSG President

Paris St-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said the proposals had been driven by self-interest as he instead backed Uefa's planned reforms to the Champions League. PSG are not one of the clubs who have chosen to sign up to the proposed Super League.

"Paris Saint-Germain holds the firm belief that football is a game for everyone," he said on the club website. "I have been consistent on this since the very beginning. As a football club, we are a family and a community whose fabric is our fans - I believe we shouldn't forget this.

"There is a clear need to advance the existing Uefa competition model, presented by Uefa yesterday and concluding 24 months' of extensive and collaborative consultation across the whole European football landscape.

"We believe that any proposal without the support of Uefa - an organisation that has been working to progress the interests of European football for nearly 70 years - does not resolve the issues currently facing the football community, but is instead driven by self-interest."

Football Supporters' Association lambast 'greedy owners'

The Football Supporters' Association have called the owners of the 'Big Six' clubs "vultures" who are trying to "hoard power and wealth".

Following a meeting with Boris Johnson earlier today, Kevin Miles, chief executive of the Football Supporters’ Association, said: “The greedy owners of some of our most historic football clubs have done nothing but unite fans throughout the pyramid, players, pundits, clubs, politicians and the Government in opposition to their plans to hoard power and wealth. There must be no more appeasement of these vultures.”

“Today the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) and some of our member organisations met with the prime minister Boris Johnson and secretary of state Oliver Dowden to make clear the existential crisis facing football and the overwhelming support from fans for political action.”

“The PM’s response was very positive as he committed to legislative action, if necessary, to support the football authorities. In addition he referred to yesterday’s announcement of the much-anticipated fan-led review into football governance, confirming that it would have a far-reaching remit.”

“The FSA looks forward to working with the Government and all political parties in Westminster. As well as meeting the PM we have also met today with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Football Supporters and, separately, Keir Starmer and the Labour Party.”

“Supporters will do everything in our power to stop the European Super League.”

Boris Johnson meets football's authorities in pictures

Boris Johnson holds a virtual roundtable in 10 Downing Street Credit: Simon Dawson / No10 Downing Street /No10 Downing Street 
Boris Johnson holds a virtual roundtable with Oliver Dowden, Secretary for Digital, Culture Media and Sports and football fans who are concerned over the European Super League Credit: Simon Dawson / No10 Downing Street /No10 Downing Street 

Premier League 'vigorously rejects' Super League plans

Following the meeting between the non-'Big Six' Premier League teams, the body has released a statement saying it is considering taking "all actions available to prevent it from progressing".

The statement reads: "The Premier League, alongside The FA, met with clubs today to discuss the immediate implications of the Super League proposal. The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition." 

"The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those Shareholders involved to account under its rules. The League will continue to work with key stakeholders including fan groups, Government, Uefa, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to protect the best interests of the game and call on those clubs involved in the proposed competition to cease their involvement immediately."  

"The Premier League would like to thank fans and all stakeholders for the support they have shown this week on this significant issue. The reaction proves just how much our open pyramid and football community means to people."

Marcus Rashford takes stance against Super League

In perhaps the highest profile stand yet taken by a player, Manchester United and England striker Marcus Rashford has tweeted out against the proposed ESL.

In a simple message, Rashford tweeted a picture of a Sir Matt Busby quote that currently adorns one of the seat coverings at Old Trafford. The quote reads: "Football is nothing without fans."

Pep Guardiola attacks Super League

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hit out at the European Super League, insisting it is "not sport" if some clubs are guaranteed to qualify. 

Guardiola revealed he was only told about the breakaway a few hours before the ESL statement was released and City were confirmed as a “Founding Member”. Under the proposal there would be no relegation for the 15 biggest clubs.  

“Sport is not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn’t exist,” said Guardiola. “It is not a sport. It is not a sport when success is already guaranteed. It is not a sport when it doesn’t matter if you lose. That is why, I’ve said many time, I want the best competition and the strongest competition as possible, especially the Premier League.” 

“And it is not fair when one team fights and fights to arrive at the top and cannot qualify because success is already guaranteed for just a few clubs.” 

Players and managers up and down the Premier League have begun voicing their opposition to the ESL, including Leeds United midfield Jack Harrison, who is currently on loan from Manchester City Credit: Lee Smith /POOL Reuters 

'Let's wait and see what unfolds', says Mauricio Pochettino

Paris St-Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino, asked about a breakaway European Super League, replied that more time was needed to see how the situation unfolded before he could give a clearer answer.

"We will see what happens in the coming days and weeks," Pochettino told a news conference today, ahead of PSG's French Cup match against Angers.

The state-backed Qatar Sports Investments owns PSG. French and German clubs are not among the 12 teams in the breakaway Super League, which is comprised of teams from England, Spain and Italy.

'Players, now is your time: will you hide, or be heroes?'

Our Chief Football Correspondent Jason Burt discusses Premier League footballers facing a dilemma over whether to join T-shirt protest against European Super League

Now is the time for the #PlayersTogether campaign to be heard again. Just as the so-called ‘Big Six’ Premier League clubs have shown a united front,  (for now at least) with their selfish, awful European Super League breakaway plan, then what a moment it would be for the players they employ – and those from the other 14 clubs – to unite as one voice against it.

You can read Jason's call to arms in full here.

Burnley chairman calls for independent regulator for English football

Burnley chairman Alan Pace said the Super League proposals indicated the need for major reform within the game as he called on the Government to act.

In an open letter, Pace wrote: "Today I am calling on Boris Johnson and Oliver Dowden to follow their welcome intervention and now appoint an independent regulator to protect English football with legislation."

"As a former financier, I understand the commercial considerations for these clubs and can appreciate their frustration at being the largest revenue drivers for the Uefa Champions League, without receiving the same levels of influence and reward."

"However, this is a move which does not treat fans or the game's history with the respect it deserves and is not the solution."

How Gary Neville became an unlikely people's champion

Former Manchester United captain says he feels 'slightly complicit' having previously stayed silent on club's US owners. He's not silent now, says Thom Gibbs.

It was an extraordinary evening of television, but a terrible night for Sky’s giant tactical iPad.

The “silly machine” (copyright Ron Atkinson, 1996) has been best supporting actor for many years on Monday Night Football. It was barely touched during the presentation of Leeds United vs Liverpool, the inconvenient Premier League football match between hours of searing sermons about the European Super League.

Gary Neville was in rare form, undisputed MNF MVP. The former Manchester United defender’s broadcast career has taken him from game-raising tactical analyst to slightly diminished power after the reality-check of his spell in charge of Valencia.

Gary Neville has emerged as the people's champion Credit: Mark Enfield /MatchDay Images Limited 

He has gradually re-invented himself as a spectacular all-round broadcaster who leans less heavily on knowledge of the game’s intricacies and is happy to weigh in on bigger issues. Now, most surprising of all, he’s the voice of the people.

You can read Thom's view in full here.

'Big Six' loanees face dilemma over Premier League t-shirt protest

Plans for Premier League players to wear anti-Super League T-shirts will leave Jesse Lingard and other on-loan stars facing a major dilemma.

Telegraph Sport has been told top-flight teams could follow the lead of Leeds United by donning T-shirts with the slogan ‘Earn It.’ on the front and ‘Football is for the Fans.’ on the reverse.

Lingard is one of several players on loan at a Premier League club from one of its six Super League teams. Jack Harrison became the first such player to don the anti-Super League T-shirt on Monday night when Leeds played Liverpool. Harrison is on loan at Elland Road from Manchester City, although Telegraph Sport has been told that deal is poised to be made permanent.

Lingard is on loan at West Ham United from Manchester United, Takumi Minamino is on loan at Southampton from Liverpool and Joe Willock is on loan at Newcastle United from Arsenal.

But the Big Six club with by far the most on-loan players at other Premier League teams is Chelsea. Ross Barkley is currently at Aston Villa, Michy Batshuayi at Crystal Palace, Ruben Loftus-Cheek at Fulham, Conor Gallagher at West Bromwich Albion, and Ethan Ampadu at Sheffield United.

Supporters of Super League clubs' anger grows with Arsenal fan groups removing banners from ground

Arsenal fan groups have followed Liverpool in demanding that their banners and flags be removed from the club’s stadium, as protests against football’s new Super League continue to escalate, reports Jeremy Wilson.

A petition has also now passed 100,0000 signatures and, with supporters desperate to make their voices heard, a mass visual process — potentially inside living rooms across the country — is being discussed ahead of the weekend round of Premier League fixtures.

An anti-FSG banner is hung outside Anfield Credit: Christopher Furlong /Getty Images Europe 

You can read Jeremy's full report here.

'Roman Abramovich should be embarrassed by Chelsea's European Super League alliance'

Our Football News Correspondent and Chelsea expert Matt Law has delivered a scathing verdict on why Roman Abramovich has betrayed the anti-cartel ideals he initially brought to the club.

There is a reason Roman Abramovich was not welcomed with open arms by the owners of Chelsea’s Premier League rivals back in 2003 — and it had nothing to do with any strong views on Russian politics.David Dein, the vice-chairman of Arsenal at the time, was in Monaco for the Champions League draw when he famously said: “Roman Abramovich has parked his Russian tank in our front garden and is firing £50 notes at us.”

You can read Matt's forthright opinion here.

German FA want breakaway 12 banned from 'all competitions'

The German Football Association (DFB) today demanded the suspension of the 12 clubs that announced the creation of a breakaway European Super League from all competitions until they reconsider.

"The clubs and their youth teams should be banned from all competitions until they think of their many supporters who have made them into top clubs in the world in the first place, and not only of their purses," DFB President Fritz Keller said on the official DFB Twitter account.

"The selfish behaviour of the 12 clubs has no longer anything to do with the game we fell in love with as children," Keller said.

"Football is open and it is there for everyone. A closed Super League on the other hand is only for the super-rich and the super-ruthless," he added.

No club from Germany has signed up to the initiative that has triggered a furore among fans and the wrath of Uefa.

'Jurgen Klopp is being used as a human shield for Liverpool's cowardly owners'

Klopp must passively stand by as his silent owners sign off a project that sullies everything that the German has created and taken pride in, says our Chief Sports Writer Oliver Brown.

On the few occasions that John W Henry has deigned to speak publicly, the Liverpool owner has always seemed bedazzled by the qualities of his manager, Jurgen Klopp.  “I could go on and on about Jurgen, how his heart is larger than his frame, how his enthusiasm affects all of us positively every day,” the Boston-based investor said last summer, in what was billed as a “rare” interview with the club’s own website. But as Klopp is doused in the vitriol unleashed by the Henry-sanctioned European Super League, while his supposed benefactor watches the carnage unfold from across the Atlantic, he could be forgiven for not feeling the love.

You can read Oliver's views in full here.

Arsenal fans 'delighted' after meeting with PM

The Arsenal's Supporters Trust have tweeted their delight at Boris Johnson's commitment to blocking the proposed ESL after a meeting between the Prime Minister and various fans groups.

"The AST was delighted to hear the PM say he would do everything possible to block this Superleague," they tweeted.

"He also promised that the football governance review being led by Tracey Crouch will be swift and look at issues such as Supporters owning shares in their club, supporters on Boards, and 50+1. It was heartening to hear that the Government wants change."

Zidane dodges ESL question

Real Madrid manager Zinadine Zidane has sidestepped questions about the European Super League, saying he is just focussing on his side's push to win a League and European Cup double.

"That's a question for the president, I'm just here to talk about tomorrow's game, and the rest of the season in La Liga and Champions. The rest is not my job," the Frenchman said at his press conference.

Real Madrid face Cadiz tomorrow night, as they seek to close the three point gap between themselves and La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid.

'Nothing off the table' to block ESL, says Boris Johnson

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said today no action was off the table to stop the planned breakaway European Super League, saying the government was exploring all options including new laws.

The PM held a meeting with representatives from the Football Association, the Premier League and fans groups at which he confirmed the government would not stand by allow the creation of a closed shop, his office said in a statement.

"He reiterated his unwavering support for the football authorities and confirmed they have the government’s full backing to take whatever action necessary to put a stop to these plans," the statement said.

"He was clear that no action is off the table and the government is exploring every possibility, including legislative options, to ensure these proposals are stopped."

Super League protests in pictures

A sign reading 'Do Fans Mean Nout' is held up outside The Colin Bell Stand at the Etihad Stadium Credit: Charlotte Tattersall /Getty Images Europe 
People stand in front of anti Super League banners outside Anfield Credit: PHIL NOBLE /REUTERS
A sign which reads 'Shame On You' is placed between two Manchester City scarves outside the Etihad Stadium Credit: Charlotte Tattersall /Getty Images Europe 
A banner left by Manchester United fans objecting to the clubs decision to join the European Super League Credit: Martin Rickett /PA
An anti-European Super League banner is pictured outside the Emirates Stadium Credit: TOLGA AKMEN /AFP

La Liga chief slams Florentino Perez for proposing 'death of football'

Spanish football league chief Javier Tebas has criticised Real Madrid president Florentino Perez for being one of the driving forces behind the European Super League, labelling the proposal as the "death of football".

Perez, named as president of the Super League, said on Spanish television yesterday that the only way football at all levels across the globe could survive would be through the new league.

"In December 2020 I said that Florentino Perez was pretty clueless, but right now he's lost," La Liga's Tebas Tweeted.

"Football isn't completely ruined like he says, nor is the Super League, which is one of the problems, the solution...it's the death of football."

Tebas's post was accompanied by two hashtags, "bad excuse" and "Florentino Perez the saviour, no thanks".

You can read more on Perez's comments here.

Chelsea players told to expect ESL next season

Chelsea players were told to be ready for the European Super League as early as next season during initial meetings over the power move to change the face of football, reports Mike McGrath.

Thomas Tuchel’s squad held talks yesterday with officials after it was announced on Sunday that the club were joining the ESL along with Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham. 

Players had no prior warning over the breakaway and Monday was the first time players could discuss the move. Manchester United held a Zoom call with players to discuss the ESL plans.  

At Chelsea, players were given the impression that the breakaway was not a threat and that the formation of the new 20-team midweek league could be in place by 2021/22 to replace the Champions League.   

ESL players have broken ranks to speak publicly about the plans, with Liverpool midfielder James Milner making it clear he is against the breakaway. Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes has also posted on his social-media platform, with his message translating that football dreams are not for sale. 

Some player agents have looked into the contracts of their clients and it is made clear they are employed by the club, rather than the league. That means contracts would be valid in a new competition. 

Newcastle want ESL kicked into the stands

The video says it all...

ESL a 'direct threat' to women's game, says Uefa's women's football chief

Nadine Kessler, Uefa's chief of women's football, has warned of the damage the creation of a European Super League could have on the women's game.

The plans published by the 12 clubs involved in the rebel project included the creation of a women's competition.

Kessler, a former Germany international and world player of the year, said of the ESL in a letter published on Twitter: "It is a direct threat to all the plans we have carefully crafted, together with ECA (European Club Association), your clubs and the leagues, for (a) new UEFA Women's Champions League."

"Clubs need to be able to have the ambition of being part of the top of European women's club football, the UEFA Women's Champions League. With a closed European Women's Super League, this is not possible."

"Of course, such (a) development would be equally devastating for the national leagues, who have made enormous efforts to professionalise the women's game. All the great steps made in recent years... will have less of a chance of becoming a reality."

ESL 'enough to drive a sober person to drink large amounts of alcohol', says Liam Gallagher

Never short of an opinion, Manchester City fan and Oasis front-man Liam Gallagher has called on his club to abandon the ESL project.

In a series of hilariously foul-mouthed tweets, Gallagher said: "C’mon MCFC do the rite thing f*** it off we’re better than this as we were."

"Let’s see who the real money grabbers are."

"This super league stuff is really scary it has to be stopped it’s enough to drive a sober person to drink large amounts of alcohol," he continued.

European Super League: will it happen and can it be stopped?

The 12 rebels behind the money-grabbing Super League launch have enraged the rest of football, the Prime Minister and even royalty - but will it really happen?

Here Telegraph Sport explores the most likely scenarios in the tumultuous weeks ahead.

Super League 'not fair', says Pepe Reina

Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina became the latest player to hit out at the planned new European Super League, saying the new competition is not a fair proposal.

The Lazio player's comments follow criticism of the breakaway from a number of players including Bruno Fernandes, Ander Herrera, Ada Hegerberg and James Milner on Monday.

Formerly a keeper for Liverpool and Barcelona - two of the 12 founder clubs of the Super League - Reina questioned the lack of sporting merit involved in the plans.

"For romantics, and those of us who have grown up through football, you dream to be able to play in big games - but because of your own sacrifices, fighting spirit, hard work and sporting merit that you earn on the pitch," the 38-year-old told Spanish radio station SER.

"This is a value that should be the number one rule that's respected in football, and using that as a base go from there."

"There'll definitely be things to improve (in European football), and the pandemic will of course have made holes (financially), however you need these changes to be a consequence of what you achieve on the pitch."

"It's not fair. Granted, the majority of those founder clubs will generate more money that others, but it's not fair to qualify for a tournament just because of decree, it's not in line with sporting values," Reina added. 

'Clandestine' ESL plans would 'destroy the dreams of clubs', say Brighton

In a statement issued on behalf of chairman Tony Bloom, chief executive Paul Barber, technical director Dan Ashworth and head coach Graham Potter, Brighton have come out in “total opposition” to the Super League plans, reports Sam Dean.

“These plans are the latest in an alarming and growing list of clandestine attempts from a small group of clubs whose actions would be wiping out close to 150 years of football’s tradition, competition, and sporting progress through merit,” the club has said.

“The ups and downs of football – promotion, relegation, winning titles and cups, challenging for, or missing out, on a European place – are all part and parcel of the drama, jeopardy, joy and heartbreak that makes our game the most watched and most loved in the world.”

“These key attributes create significant value from which we feed a financial support structure which helps to sustain football at every level in our country and well beyond. By contrast, a European Super League would concentrate value for the benefit of a small number of clubs.”

“The efforts to create a closed-shop for all but the largest clubs demonstrate a clear lack of respect for the contributions of all clubs within the domestic leagues in this country and across Europe.”

The statement goes on to say that the club will work to “defeat these plans”. It adds: “We remain open to a transparent, calm and rationale dialogue with all clubs to achieve this.”

ESL is 'losing track of what football is about' says Gavin Williamson

Placeholder image for youtube video: MHCXiKEGALA

'Gentlemen, you made a huge mistake', says Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin

Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin has addressed the Uefa Congress, warning the breakaway 12 clubs, whom he has dubbed the 'Dirty Dozen', that they are making a "huge mistake".

In an impassioned address, the Slovenian attacked the clubs for becoming heartless businesses: "For some supporters have become consumers, competitions have become products. After the final whistle it is no longer league tables they consult but viewing figures and share prices."

"Champions League elimination is no longer a sporting failure, it is an industrial risk that some are unwilling to take."

Addressing the English clubs directly, Ceferin said: "Gentlemen, you made a huge mistake. What matters is that there is still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes."

"Come to your senses, not out of love for football, because I imagine some of you don't have much of that, but out of respect for those who bleed themselves dry so that they can go to the stadium to support the team and want the dream to be kept alive. For those, you (must) change your mind."

Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin speaking at the Uefa Congress  Credit: Richard Juilliart/UEFA HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock /Shutterstock

Wolves proclaim themselves 2018/19 Premier League champions

Wolves have poked fun at the ESL on Twitter, claiming they are now the 2018/19 Premier League champions, after finishing seventh that season, behind the breakaway 'Big Six'.

"It's probably too late for a parade," the club joked.

Everton will 'never' join ESL, says Farhad Moshiri

Everton owner Farhad Moshiri has told TALKSport that Everton will not join the European Super League - "Never. Never."

“Football clubs are community assets. They belong to the fans. To the community. This is something that makes the game a money game. It isn't football anymore," he said. 

"This is six clubs attacking the very heart of the Premier League. They should be punished. They should be deducted points. The Champions League is an amazing competition. That is the Super League."

European Sport Model 'under threat', says IOC President

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach has warned that the European sports model is "under threat".

Speaking at the UEFA Congress, the German said: "In so many ways the crisis has revealed, and even deepened, existing fault lines and inequities."

"In this polarising environment, narrow self-interest and egotism have been gaining ground over solidarity, shared values and common rules."

"Unfortunately, we have to realise that this European sport model is under threat today. In fact, the very existence of the values, solidarity and volunteer-based model is under threat."

IOC President Thomas Bach speaks during the Uefa Congress Credit: Richard Juilliart - Uefa /Uefa

FIFA 'strongly disapproves' of ESL, says Gianni Infantino

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said his organisation "strongly disapproves" of plans for a European Super League and has warned the breakaway clubs they will have to "live with the consequences of their choice".

Twelve clubs - including the Premier League's so-called 'big six' - are part of proposals which would fundamentally alter the shape of European football.

Infantino told the UEFA Congress this morning: "We can only strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, a Super League which is a closed shop, which is a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA and from FIFA."

"There is a lot to throw away for the short-term financial gain of some. They need to reflect, and they need to assume responsibility."

He warned the breakaway clubs: "If some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choice. They are responsible for their choice."

"Concretely, this means either you're in or you're out. You cannot be half in or half out."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino waves as he arrives for a Uefa congress Credit: FABRICE COFFRINI /AFP

'Super League could begin this September'

Speaking to Le Parisien, Anas Laghrari, the Secretary General of the Super League, has threatened that the tournament could start as early as September 2021, if an agreement can be reached with Uefa.

Laghrari said: "The Super League has prepared for this, threats of exclusion are not legal. The timeline could accelerate. If an agreement is reached with UEFA, the competition could start as early as September 2021."

When asked what the justification for the League was, he added: "The younger generations are less interested in football. They only tune in for the big matches."

You can read our full explainer on how the Super League will work here.

Fans unite to protest European Super League in Leeds

Placeholder image for youtube video: J3TmqAZLFuY

From World Series Cricket to the IPL - cricket has a long history of controversial tournaments

As the European Super League threatens the football establishment, Tim Wigmore revisits cricket's revolutionary competitions.

“C’mon Aussie, C'mon,” was the symbol of a revolution: the iconic theme tune of Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket. It was ingenious - cheeky and playing to fans’ patriotism while telling them that the best Australian cricketers could now be found here, in World Series Cricket. 

The tournament had come about in 1977, when Packer hijacked many of the world’s best cricketers. He was aghast at his attempts to buy the broadcasting rights to Australia’s home internationals being rejected. And he recognised how cricketers’ low pay made them vulnerable to such a breakaway.

Packer’s solution was to recruit dozens of the world’s best cricketers - the bulk of the Australian and West Indies teams, as well as England captain Tony Greig - to play in WSC, his new competition. As Packer explained: “Had I got those TV rights I was prepared to withdraw from the scene and leave the running of cricket to the board. I will take no steps now to help anyone. It's every man for himself and the devil take the hindmost.” 

You can read Tim's fascinating comparison in full here.

Everton launch blistering attack on 'Big Six'

Everton have launched a scathing attack on the 'Big Six' breakaway Premier League clubs, calling them "Six clubs choosing to disrespect every other club."

Their written statement said: "Everton is saddened and disappointed to see proposals of a breakaway league pushed forward by six clubs. Six clubs acting entirely in their own interests."

"Six clubs tarnishing the reputation of our league and the game. Six clubs choosing to disrespect every other club with whom they sit around the Premier League table. Six clubs taking for granted and even betraying the majority of football supporters across our country and beyond."

"The self-proclaimed Super Six appear intent on disenfranchising supporters across the game - including their own - by putting the very structure that underpins the game we love under threat. The backlash is understandable and deserved – and has to be listened to. This preposterous arrogance is not wanted anywhere in football outside of the clubs that have drafted this plan."

"On behalf of everyone associated with Everton, we respectfully ask that the proposals are immediately withdrawn and that the private meetings and subversive practises that have brought our beautiful game to possibly its lowest ever position in terms of trust end now."

The statement was released approximately one hour before the other 14 Premier League clubs were due to hold a meeting about how best to respond to these proposals.

'Football at the top has always been based on greed'

This latest shift is more shameless than anything we have previously seen, but change has always been driven by a rush to fill the tills, says Jim White.

In football, nothing is new. Back in 1988, David Griffiths, the then chief executive of Wembley Stadium, was approached by Ted Croker, head of the FA, and asked to host a lunch. On April 25, almost exactly 33 years ago, at the Connaught Hotel in London, the chairmen of six of England’s leading football clubs met for a convivial gathering.  There was, according to Griffiths, just one item on the agenda: how they might seize control of the system from which the clubs drew the bulk of their income. The six - John Smith of Liverpool, Ken Bates of Chelsea, Peter Hill-Wood of Arsenal, Doug Ellis of Aston Villa, Philip Carter of Everton and, yes, Ron Noades of Crystal Palace - proposed creating a new competition which they would run themselves. Smith suggested it might be called the Premier League. 

You can read Jim's riveting history of the game here.

'Don't do it', begs Sven-Goran Eriksson

Former England and Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has spoken of his fear of this project, but expects the Super League not to proceed in the current, proposed form.

"I don't know what's going to happen. I can see that something will happen and something will change but 20 teams creating their own league, I can't see that," the Swede said on Good Morning Britain. "I absolutely cannot see it." 

"I strongly say, no don't do it because that will take away the dream of football."

'The Super League stitch-up is the obvious next step in the Americanisation of European football'

The so-called 'Dirty Dozen's' Super League proposals do not simply threaten the whole fabric of European football: they also represent the relentless Americanisation of the sport - a world in which, however much you lose on the field, you are guaranteed to win off it, says Tim Wigmore.

Alan Sugar once said that owning a football club was “like drinking prune juice while eating figs”. He was considering his time as Tottenham chairman and making the point that, however much extra money came in, it would be siphoned off to players and agents, or via exorbitant transfer fees. 

US sports have long known that, for owners, there is a better way. Since 2000, the Dallas Cowboys have won 177 games and lost 169 - a puny win percentage of 51 per cent - and have failed to even reach a solitary Super Bowl. Yet the Dallas Cowboys are the most valuable sports franchise in the world, now worth $5.5 billion. Mediocrity pays. 

You can read Tim's pertinent analysis here.

Labour writes to CMA calling for Super League investigation

The Labour party have announced they have formally written to the Competition and Market Authority (CMA), calling for an investigation into whether the Super League would violate laws of fairness, and have urged fans to join them.

Labour’s Shadow Minister for Sport, Alison McGovern MP, said that the proposal from six Premier League clubs would not offer fair competition and would have an “enormous” impact on fans.  

She also requested that the CMA help Parliament improve representation for fans and supporters in football by “advising what reforms to the legislation governing this market might improve the responsiveness of the sport to supporter’s interests.”

"Proposals for a breakaway league are nothing short of an attempt to stitch up competition for a few elite clubs at the top. That’s why Labour has today asked the CMA to investigate them."

"This must now be a watershed moment. We cannot simply go back to the status quo in which smaller clubs struggle to stay afloat and fans are excluded from decisions."

In response, a CMA spokesperson said: "“The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest. It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

Meanwhile on the continent...

La Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy brandished pictures of the star players from each of the 12 breakaway clubs and demanded someone 'STOP THEM!'

 L'Equipe, France's leading sports daily, heaped praise on both PSG and Bayern Munich for their refusal to sign up, stating 'We are the champions'

Marca, one of Spain's leading sports newspapers who are known for being big advocates of Real Madrid, spoke of a 'Clamour against the Super League'. The Super League has been pioneered by Real Madrid President Florentio Perez.

Britain's local papers react with fury

The Liverpool Echo evokes the spirit of Bill Shankly, suggesting that FSG are 'bloody greedy' Credit: Kwee Ping 
The Manchester Evening News splashed with pictures of Sheikh Mansour and the Glazers and simply said 'Shame On You' Credit: Kwee Ping 
The Birmingham Mail expressed similar views, saying 'Our clubs, our future' and calling on all football fans to 'Stop the ESL' Credit: Kwee Ping 
While the Leicester Mercury pitched itself in line for a battle, calling on everyone to 'fight for the future of our sport' Credit: Kwee Ping 

'Why don't these owners come out and face the media?' - Alan Shearer

Former England and Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has spoken out against the Super League this morning, calling out Liverpool's owner for sending Jurgen Klopp and James Milner out to speak to the media, but not making a statement themselves.

"He (Klopp) was in a very difficult situation (yesterday) evening, but he said as much as he could say," said Shearer. "That is huge when someone who has brought so much success to Liverpool, one of their great managers (alongside) Shankly, Dalgleish, Paisley...speaks out against it."

"It's not fair on him being put in that situation last night. It's not fair on the captain," he added. "Where are these owners? Why don't they come out face the media, and tell us why they've done it?"

The inside story of European football's civil war, what the rebel clubs really want - and what happens next

"Human values evaporate," said Uefa's ashen-faced president as he described a call he will never forget from Manchester United's Ed Woodward.

On Thursday night, the smooth-talking ex-banker rang Aleksander Ceferin to tell the administrator everything he wanted to hear about his Champions League plan. "He called me in the evening saying he's very satisfied with the reforms," said Ceferin, still reeling with shock at the bombshell breakaway.

Woodward had been identified  by Uefa as a potential chief protagonist in a rebellion, having waged concern just two weeks earlier over commercial rights in the 2024 competition carve-up. However, to Ceferin's surprise and delight, Woodward assured him he "fully supports the reforms, and that the only thing he would like to speak about is Financial Fair Play".

Little did he know that the call was a strategic move by the rebels to put European football's leaders off the scent of one of the biggest betrayals in modern sport.

You can read Tom Morgan's fascinating full breakdown here.

'Our sport is nothing without fans', says David Beckham

England legend David Beckham has taken to Instagram overnight to express his disappointment at the proposed Super League, saying we "need football to be fair and we need competitions based on merit."

The current owner of Inter Miami, who played for three of the breakaway clubs during his career, posted: "I loved it from when I was a young child as a fan, and I’m still a fan now. As a player and now as an owner I know that our sport is nothing without the fans."

"Unless we protect these values the game we love is in danger."

Chelsea, Man City and Real Madrid could be axed from Champions League this week

Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City were in danger of being thrown out of the Champions League and Europa League semi-finals on Monday night as football authorities, fans and the Government declared war on the European Super League, reports Telegraph Sport.

The four remaining English clubs in Europe were warned they could be expelled from their respective competitions as soon as Friday, while the likes of Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford were facing a ban from playing at this summer’s European Championship.

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur were also rendered footballing outcasts, along with Real Madrid, Barcelona and the rest of the “Dirty Dozen” clubs behind a plot that has sparked arguably the biggest outcry in the history of the game.

You can read the full report here.

More reaction from news of the European Super League

Prince William, president of the Football Association, voiced his concern over a plan which would see the breakaway clubs reap the benefits of a lucrative new competition without the threat of relegation. He said the proposal risked "damage" to the "game we love".

The political response was forceful too. Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden told the House of Commons the Government stood ready to do "whatever it takes" to prevent the clubs from breaking away if the football authorities were unable to do so themselves.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a round table with representatives from football governing bodies as well as fans' representatives on Tuesday to discuss the proposed breakaway competition.

In pictures: protests at Leeds vs Liverpool last night

Fans gathered outside Elland Road yesterday to make their views known, while Leeds players wore 'Football for the Fans' t-shirts, something that riled Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Read why here.

Jurgen Klopp looks on as a Leeds United player warms up on the pitch wearing a shirt opposing the new European Super League Credit:  PA
Credit: Getty Images
Fans burn a Liverpool replica shirt outside Elland Road against Liverpool's decision to be included among the clubs attempting to form a new European Super League Credit: PA
Obligatory plane protest, with a message of #SayNoToSuperLeague Credit: Pool via REUTERS

Premier League meeting today

As detailed above, the remaining 14 Premier League teams will meet this morning to discuss next steps.

Our chief football correspondent Jason Burt gives the context to the meeting here.

The ‘Big Six’ rebels are confident that the other clubs will not try and expel them from the Premier League and not least because their involvement drives up the broadcast revenues which are so vital to their existence.Without the ‘Big Six’ the multi-billion pound contracts paid by the likes of Sky Sports would be in tatters and the whole of the football pyramid – including the 72 EFL clubs – would be in jeopardy.Nevertheless it will be intriguing to see what response and course of action the other 14 Premier League clubs come up with. The Premier League has been heartened by the outcry following news of the ESL plan and not least with the robust response from the UK Government which has been unequivocal in its opposition.It is understood that it will probably take Government and regulatory intervention, which may involve the European Commission because it is a European competition, to prevent the breakaway rather than threats of expulsion from other clubs and the Premier League.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez speaks late on Tues

A controversial decision to form a breakaway European Super League was taken “to save football” and in part motivated because “young people are no longer interested” in the game, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday.

Speaking for the first time since 12 top European clubs announced on Sunday that they would form a new elite league, the new chairman of the Super League said football needed to evolve and adapt to the times.

"Whenever there is a change, there are always people who oppose it... and we are doing this to save football at this critical moment," Perez said on the Spanish TV show El Chiringuito de Jugones.

"Audiences are decreasing and rights are decreasing and something had to be done. We are all ruined. Television has to change so we can adapt."

"Young people are no longer interested in football. Why not? Because there are a lot of poor quality games and they are not interested, they have other platforms on which to distract themselves."

Real have been joined in the venture by two other Spanish clubs, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Premier League clubs Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have also signed up to the plans.

The founding group of 12 is completed by Italian Serie A trio AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. Another three will be included as guaranteed members and five others will qualify to join them each year.

Perez said they had not invited Paris Saint Germain nor any German clubs and had not yet decided what criteria would be used to choose the additional teams.

But the top teams were losing money and needed a fresh impetus, he stressed, and the expanded Champions League announced by UEFA on Monday was no answer.

“If we continue with the Champions League there is less and less interest and then it’s over,” he said. “The new format, which starts in 2024 is absurd…In 2024 we are all dead.”

“Together we have lost 5 billion (euros),” he said of the top clubs' alleged losses. “In two seasons Madrid have lost 400 million."

"When you have no income other than television, you say that the solution is to make more attractive matches that fans from all over the world can see with all the big clubs and we came to the conclusion that if instead of having a Champions League we have a Super League we would be able to alleviate what we have lost."

Perez came out with a string of novel suggestions during the almost two-hour long conversation, suggesting football matches could be made shorter to make them more appealing, and vowing the new league would have better officiating and better Video Assistant Referees (VAR).

He also lambasted UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, who earlier in the day had himself launched an angry attack on the new league, but said the rebels would exhaust all dialogue before the new league started, possibly as early as August.

“If we reach an agreement with UEFA we want to start in August, if not, we can wait a year.”

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