In a decisive move that signals the potential end of the breakaway movement, FC Barcelona has formally announced its withdrawal from the European Super League (ESL) project. The decision leaves their long-time rivals, Real Madrid, as the only remaining club still committed to the proposal.
Official Club Statement
The reigning La Liga champions confirmed the news through an official statement released on the club’s website, notifying the governing body and fellow founders of their exit.
“FC Barcelona hereby announces that today it has formally notified the European Super League Company and the clubs involved of its withdrawal from the European Super League project.”
Context of the Breakaway Attempt
The European Super League was originally unveiled in 2021 with 12 founding members, intended to rival the UEFA Champions League. The project aimed to create a “closed-shop” elite competition that would guarantee revenue for the world’s biggest clubs. The initial lineup included:
- Premier League: Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham.
- La Liga: Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid.
- Serie A: Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan.
The 2021 Collapse and Legal Battles
While the project was intended to be a permanent fixture, it faced immediate and fierce backlash from supporters, players, and governing bodies.
- 72-Hour Exit: Within three days of the initial announcement, all six Premier League clubs withdrew following mass fan protests outside stadiums like Stamford Bridge and the Emirates.
- Legal Holdouts: For several years, Barcelona and Real Madrid remained the primary advocates for the league, successfully pursuing legal avenues through the European Court of Justice (ECJ). In late 2023, the ECJ ruled that UEFA and FIFA’s rules blocking the formation of the league were contrary to EU law, briefly reviving hopes for the project.
Impact of Barcelona’s Exit
Barcelona’s departure effectively isolates Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez and places the future of any breakaway league in extreme doubt. For Barcelona, the withdrawal is seen by industry analysts as a strategic move to:
- Mend Relationships: Restore standing with UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA).
- Focus on Stability: Prioritize domestic and Champions League revenue as the club navigates complex financial and structural transitions.
- Unity: Align with the majority of European clubs who have reaffirmed their commitment to the existing pyramid structure.
Source: FC Barcelona
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