Sheffield United urged to help block a European Super League

Sheffield United were encouraged to play a full and active role in a discussion between 14 Premier League clubs opposed to the creation of a new European competition, sources involved in the meeting have told The Star, despite being relegated from the top-flight last weekend.
By James Shield
Published 20th Apr 2021, 16:13 BST
Updated 20th Apr 2021, 16:17 BST
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After owner HRH Prince Abdullah bin Musa’ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud expressed his disapproval towards the project, which is being supported by six English sides including Manchester City and Chelsea, United’s representative at yesterday’s video conference was asked to help draft a statement vowing to “consider all actions available” to block the move.

“The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition,” it read. “The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those Shareholders involved to account under its rules.

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Although they will start next season in the Championship after falling 19 points adrift of safety with only six matches remaining, United are also set to be invited to further talks involving leading figures from the world of both sport and politics.

H.R.H Prince Abdullah bin Mosa'ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Simon Bellis/SportimageH.R.H Prince Abdullah bin Mosa'ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
H.R.H Prince Abdullah bin Mosa'ad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

In a fresh and surprise twist, City manager Pep Guardiola, whose employers are one of the driving forces behind the plan to establish a European Super League, told journalists at a pre-arranged media briefing that “sport isn’t sport if losing doesn’t matter.” The architects of the ESL, who also include Milan, Juventus, Internazionale, Barcelona and Real Madrid, plan to abandon the concepts of promotion and relegation if the scheme is forced through.

With fans at Chelsea arranging a protest outside Stamford Bridge and Liverpool followers signalling their contempt for the ESL ahead of Monday’s draw with Leeds, United supporters have also spoken out about attempts to change the face of the game.

Boris Johnson, the UK Prime Minister, told the PL’s chief executive Richard Masters that he is ready to drop a “legislative bomb” to prevent an ESL being established, while both UEFA and FIFA have vowed to prevent it from getting off the ground.

The head of the Danish FA has called for Chelsea, City and Real Madrid to be expelled from the semi-finals of this season’s Champions League for backing the ESL venture.

Related topics:Premier LeagueEuropean Super League