Madrid and Barcelona Continue Solo Battle for Super League Despite Court Decision

Real Madrid and Barcelona are finding it difficult to garner support in their efforts to resurrect the Super League initiative. Following the European Union’s highest court ruling against UEFA and FIFA’s attempts to obstruct the formation of the breakaway league, both clubs were quick to declare victory and applaud the decision.

However, their enthusiasm was not shared by other clubs, as there were no indications of additional clubs joining their cause despite the favorable legal outcome. Both Madrid and Barcelona are facing challenges in persuading other teams to rejoin the initiative, but they remain determined to continue their efforts.

Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez expressed optimism about a new era for European football, emphasizing the opportunity for free operation and constructive dialogue without opposition. He sees this as a chance to innovate and modernize football, keeping fan interest alive.

For Barcelona, the Super League is particularly crucial given their financial struggles. The club sees the court’s decision as a pathway to establish a new elite football competition in Europe, opposing the current monopoly and is eager to start new discussions about the future direction of European competitions.

Despite this enthusiasm, none of the original 10 clubs involved in the Super League have shown interest in rejoining. Juventus, another key supporter of the project, officially withdrew earlier this year under new management. However, its former president Andrea Agnelli, a key figure behind the Super League and whose family owns the club, hinted at continued interest with a cryptic social media post.

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid, a rival of both Madrid and Barcelona, reaffirmed their opposition to the Super League. Atletico’s statement emphasized the European football community’s stance against the Super League, advocating for the preservation of domestic leagues and merit-based qualification for European competitions.

The Premier League and other leagues, along with many teams and the European Club Association, have also expressed their disagreement with the Super League concept. Manchester United reiterated their commitment to UEFA competitions and continued cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and other clubs through the ECA for the development of European football.

A22 Sports Management, the promoter behind the Super League, announced revised plans for the competition, proposing a system with promotion, relegation, and exit options, in contrast to the Champions League.

The original Super League proposal, introduced in April 2021, quickly collapsed amid widespread protests from fans, leagues, and the football community. Pérez, however, remains hopeful, viewing this development as a pivotal moment in the history of football and sports in general.

Despite these declarations, Real Madrid and Barcelona are currently the sole advocates for the Super League, with no other clubs joining their cause. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin sarcastically commented on the situation, suggesting that the clubs start their league as soon as possible, albeit with only two members.