European Super League: Premier League rejects concept after EU's top court rules FIFA and UEFA acted unlawfully in blocking breakaway competition

Plans for a European Super League were announced in April 2021 but were met with widespread criticism and quickly collapsed; the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Justice said on Thursday that FIFA and UEFA blocking the ESL is 'contrary to EU law'

Thursday 21 December 2023 18:12, UK

The Premier League has reconfirmed its objection to a European Super League as organisers launched a new proposal following a significant court verdict.

On Thursday, judges said UEFA rules blocking the formation of a new competition, such as the European Super League, were contrary to EU law — but added that the competition may still not be approved.

The Premier League said: «The ruling does not endorse the so-called 'European Super League' and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept.

»Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a 'breakaway' competition that severs the link between domestic and European football."

Manchester United released a statement on Thursday saying they «remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions», while Manchester City and Tottenham said they are «committed to the values of European football».

A Chelsea statement said: «The judgement issued today does not change Chelsea's position».

The Grand Chamber of the European Court of Justice had been asked to decide whether UEFA and FIFA acted against competition law by blocking the formation of the European Super League in 2021 and then seeking to sanction the clubs involved.

New 'European Super League' plan revealed: How would it work?

Explained: What court ruling means for Super League and will there be a breakaway?

The original 2021 Super League proposal was criticised