The controversial idea of a European Super League has once again resurfaced, sparking intense debates among fans and experts. Despite the collapse of the proposed league in April 2021, recent reports suggest that some of the wealthiest and most powerful clubs in Europe are exploring the possibility of reviving the plan.

A fresh take on an old concept

According to an interview with the German newspaper Die Welt, Bernd Reichart, the CEO of the competition, proposed a modified European Super League with the potential to include as many as 80 teams arranged in multiple divisions. The revised competition would prioritize sporting meritocracy, meaning that there would be no permanent members, and teams would be entitled to a minimum of 14 matches per season without altering the overall number of games played by each club.

The initial version of the proposed European Super League collapsed in 2021 due to widespread backlash from fans, players, coaches, and governing bodies in football. The main objections were that the plan involved creating a closed league excluding most of the smaller and less wealthy clubs, and instead, focused on the participation of the richest and most successful teams. Moreover, the Super League proposal needed more transparency and consultation with key stakeholders, and the announcement of the plan was made in a rushed and secretive manner.

This further fueled the frustration of fans and the broader football community, who saw the project as an attempt to prioritize commercial interests over sporting values. The opposition to the Super League proposal was so intense that several clubs withdrew their participation in the project, and the remaining members were forced to abandon the idea, leading to its collapse. However, now we are experiencing the resurrection of the Super League idea approached with a more inclusive and consultative mindset.

© Brent Flanders (cc: by-nc-nd)

Revised principles of the Super League

One of the fundamental tenets of English football is the notion that achievement on the field is recognized and rewarded, thus upholding the "sporting integrity" of the competition. With this in mind, the proposed European Super League organizers have made it clear that their revised plan would not operate as a closed shop, and that promotion and relegation would be part of the structure. Under the updated proposal, as many as 80 teams from various parts of Europe would participate in three divisions, without any permanent members.

The new proposal for the European Super League would incorporate measures to control costs, which was a major factor that convinced American Premier League owners to support the original plans. According to Bernd Reichart, these cost control measures would ensure that clubs only spend funds that they generate, rather than relying on capital injections that could unfairly distort competition. Notably, UEFA is also planning to implement similar regulations next year that will limit teams to spending a maximum of 70 percent of their revenue on player and coach salaries, transfers, and agent fees.

The proposed European Super League promises to be an exciting and groundbreaking addition to the world of football. With up to 80 teams from across Europe competing in a multi-divisional format, the Super League would bring together the continent's top football clubs to showcase their skills and battle it out for the ultimate prize.

© Brent Flanders (cc: by-nc-nd)