The European Super League collapsed just after 48 hours from its official announcement. After strong protest from fans worldwide, Manchester City and Chelsea were the first clubs to pull out from the ESL, followed by the other Premier League clubs, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
Later, Spanish club Atletico Madrid and Italian side Inter Milan also withdrew from the European Super League. The clubs released official statements confirming their withdrawals. AC Milan, Barcelona, Juventus and Real Madrid are still in it, even though the chance of the Super League happening is nil.
Newly elected Barcelona president Joan Laporta has spoken for the first time since the ESL was made public. He feels that the formation of the Super League is an absolute must.
Laporta said on TV3, via Marca: “[A Super League] is absolutely necessary. We are supporters of the national leagues and we will talk to UEFA,”
“We have a position of prudence. It is a necessity, but the last word in the end will be [from] the members.
“The big clubs contribute a lot and we must participate in the economic distribution.”
Laporta also feels about the Super League that it must still uphold certain sporting values.
He said: “It should be an attractive competition, based on sporting merits,”
“We are open to an open dialogue with UEFA. I think there will be an understanding.”
