Barcelona president, Joan Laporta has revealed that the European Super League could get underway next season.
The Spanish giants, Real Madrid and Juventus initiated a Super League project in 2021. But it was soon halted by institutional and fan outrage, as well as other clubs withdrawal.
According to a ruling by the European Union Court of Justice, FIFA and UEFA, the world and European football governing bodies, violated competition law in December.
A22 Sports Management, the league’s promoters, quickly revealed plans to create a new 64-team competition to either rival or supersede UEFA’Champions League.
“The Super League could start next season, or it will be in 2025-26, and if not, I will rethink everything,” Laporta told RAC1 radio station as echoed by France24.
The original proposal included six Premier League clubs. But they withdrew and have made no indication that they will come back.
“I don’t care if the English teams join,” added Laporta.
“They already have their Super League — the Premier League.”
Laporta said the project could begin with just 16 teams.
“The European Cup started in 1955 with very few clubs and later became the top competition in Europe,” said Laporta.
“I imagine a first phase like this, and (more clubs) then integrating.”
The Catalan club president proposed Inter Milan, AC Milan, Roma, and Napoli from Italy as potential league additions alongside Madrid and Barcelona.
See Also: Klopp Reveals Nunez An Injury Doubt Ahead Of Arsenal Clash
It has been suggested that the establishment of a European Super League will help financially strapped clubs.
“The Super League means that you’re putting 100 million euros ($109 million) on the table for a club just for competing in the competition, at least, and you don’t even get that for winning the Champions League,” said Laporta.
COMMENTS