Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians.

Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus&nbsp;– remaining in the Super League scheme of things.

"For the club, harmony is essential between all the groups that make up the rojiblanco family, especially our fans," Atletico said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-cant-go-ahead-without-premier-league-teams-esl-founder-andrea-agnelli-378998" hreflang="en">European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli</a>

“The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport," AC Milan said in a statement.

Even Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold".

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/six-ways-to-say-goodbye-how-english-clubs-announced-super-league-pull-outs-378927" hreflang="en">Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs</a>

"But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game.

"The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

(With AFP inputs)

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism. The withdrawal by Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, just 48 hours after the league's unveiling, followed a furious reaction from fans, officials and politicians. Atletico Madrid, AC Milan Inter announced they were pulling out on Wednesday with just four clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus – remaining in the Super League scheme of things. "For the club, harmony is essential between all the groups that make up the rojiblanco family, especially our fans," Atletico said in a statement. ALSO READ: European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli “The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport," AC Milan said in a statement. Even Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills, and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold". "I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement. ALSO READ: Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs "But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game. "The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together." (With AFP inputs)

Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about&nbsp;league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday.

Asked whether the project could still happen after the exits, Agnelli told Reuters: "To be frank and honest no, evidently that is not the case."

Twelve of Europe's leading soccer clubs announced a breakaway league on Sunday but after 48 hours of intense criticism and political opposition, the six English clubs pulled out on Tuesday. While the move to quit ESL was welcomed by all, the remaining six teams - Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter - have constantly&nbsp;been bashed by the football lovers.&nbsp;

Agnelli said he remained convinced that European football needed change and he had no regrets about the way the breakaway attempt was made.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-league-in-ruins-as-all-six-english-clubs-pull-out-378930" hreflang="en">Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out</a>

"I remain convinced of the beauty of that project," Agnelli said, stating it would have created the best competition in the world.

"But admittedly ... I mean, I don't think that that project is now still up and running," he said.

Atletico Madrid joined Inter Milan on Wednesday have also pulled&nbsp;out of the project.

The founding members of the league were English clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Italy's Juventus, Inter and AC Milan, and Spain's Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico.

Liverpool's principal owner John Henry apologised in a video on the club's website and social media on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/six-ways-to-say-goodbye-how-english-clubs-announced-super-league-pull-outs-378927" hreflang="en">Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs</a>

"It goes without saying but should be said that the project put forward was never going to stand without the support of the fans," he said.

"I alone am responsible for the unnecessary negativity brought forward over the past couple of days. It's something I won't forget. And shows the power the fans have today and will rightly continue to have."

Having triggered an enormous backlash from players, fans and football authorities, the Super League had said late on Tuesday it would reconsider and look to "reshape" the project, while stopping short of throwing in the towel.

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday.

Breakaway European Super League founder and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli on Wednesday said the much-talked-about league cannot go ahead after six English clubs - Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal withdrew late on Tuesday. Asked whether the project could still happen after the exits, Agnelli told Reuters: "To be frank and honest no, evidently that is not the case." Twelve of Europe's leading soccer clubs announced a breakaway league on Sunday but after 48 hours of intense criticism and political opposition, the six English clubs pulled out on Tuesday. While the move to quit ESL was welcomed by all, the remaining six teams - Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter - have constantly been bashed by the football lovers. Agnelli said he remained convinced that European football needed change and he had no regrets about the way the breakaway attempt was made. ALSO READ: Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out "I remain convinced of the beauty of that project," Agnelli said, stating it would have created the best competition in the world. "But admittedly ... I mean, I don't think that that project is now still up and running," he said. Atletico Madrid joined Inter Milan on Wednesday have also pulled out of the project. The founding members of the league were English clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Italy's Juventus, Inter and AC Milan, and Spain's Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico. Liverpool's principal owner John Henry apologised in a video on the club's website and social media on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs "It goes without saying but should be said that the project put forward was never going to stand without the support of the fans," he said. "I alone am responsible for the unnecessary negativity brought forward over the past couple of days. It's something I won't forget. And shows the power the fans have today and will rightly continue to have." Having triggered an enormous backlash from players, fans and football authorities, the Super League had said late on Tuesday it would reconsider and look to "reshape" the project, while stopping short of throwing in the towel.

European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli

Statements from all six English clubs after their withdrawal from football's proposed European Super League:

<h2>- Arsenal -</h2>

"It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future.&nbsp;

"As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it."

<h2>- Chelsea -</h2>

"Having joined the group late last week, we have now had time to consider the matter fully and have decided that our continued participation in these plans would not be in the best interests of the club, our supporters or the wider football community."

<h2>- Liverpool -</h2>

"In recent days, the club has received representations from various key stakeholders, both internally and externally, and we would like to thank them for their valuable contributions."

<h2>- Manchester City -</h2>

"Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League."

<h2>- Manchester United -</h2>

"We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders."

<h2>- Tottenham Hotspur -</h2>

"We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal. We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid."

Statements from all six English clubs after their withdrawal from football's proposed European Super League: - Arsenal - "It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future.

Statements from all six English clubs after their withdrawal from football's proposed European Super League: - Arsenal - "It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future. "As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it." - Chelsea - "Having joined the group late last week, we have now had time to consider the matter fully and have decided that our continued participation in these plans would not be in the best interests of the club, our supporters or the wider football community." - Liverpool - "In recent days, the club has received representations from various key stakeholders, both internally and externally, and we would like to thank them for their valuable contributions." - Manchester City - "Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League." - Manchester United - "We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders." - Tottenham Hotspur - "We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal. We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid."

Six ways to say goodbye: How English clubs announced Super League pull-outs

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money.

<h2>1955: the launch as a private super league</h2>

While there had been cross-border club competitions, such as the pre-war Mitropa Cup, French newspaper L'Equipe kicked off modern European club competition when it suggested the creation of a Champion Clubs' Cup.

UEFA, the governing body of European football, initially wanted nothing to do with it and were prepared to let the clubs get on with it.

Global governing body&nbsp;FIFA, however, concerned that such a competition would flourish outside its official structures, pushed UEFA to jump on the bandwagon and give its approval.&nbsp;

The European Cup started in the 1955-56 season with clubs from 15 nations and the Saarland, a French protectorate in Germany. The entries did not include a club from England, which turned its nose up at the idea and refused to enter champions Chelsea.

Only seven of the 16 club were reigning national champions.&nbsp;

Some, such as Dutch champions Holland Sport and Scottish champions Aberdeen refused to take part and were replaced by other clubs from their leagues.&nbsp;

In some countries, the national champions were passed over in favour of more famous or better-connected clubs.

The following year, UEFA required each country to send its national champion.

The Champions Cup was quickly joined by the Intercity Fairs Cup, in which cities at first entered combined teams. It became the first European competition with more entries for the big countries as it evolved into the UEFA Cup and then the Europa League.

The Cup Winners Cup was founded in 1960 and lasted until 1999.

<h2>1991: More matches</h2>

The big clubs first got their way in the early 1990s.

For 1991-1992, UEFA agreed to introduce group stages to guarantee more matches.

In that season, after two knockout rounds, the last eight competed in two groups of four, with the winners, Barcelona and Sampdoria, qualifying for the final.

The following season, the competition was rebranded the Champions League.

From 1994-1995, the group stage was moved to the beginning of the tournament.

<h2>1997: More clubs</h2>

The big clubs scored a second victory in 1997 when runners up from nine of the biggest leagues were allowed to enter.

In 1999, up to four clubs were allowed from each country - in the first season Italy, Germany and Spain were the beneficiaries - and a second group phase was introduced for the round of 16.

That increased the number of matches and, therefore, revenue. It also reduced the risk of giant-killing upsets, but the predictability and meaningless matches late in the group stages also drained much of the drama.

The second group phase was abandoned in the 2002-2003 season but the first group phase was kept to weed out the real minnows&nbsp;while guaranteeing qualifiers at least six games.

<h2>2020: The 'Super' League</h2>

Despite the tremendous popularity of the competition, the big clubs forever want more.

Their solution is a closed or semi-closed European league, the 'Super League'.

The powerful European Club Association, dominated by the biggest clubs, was the first to brandish the threat.

That pressure prompted UEFA to come up with the proposed Champions League reform this week, with an initial phase of 36 clubs each playing 10 matches against different opponents.

While the majority of the ECA's 200 or so member and associate clubs are happy with the plan, 12, six from England and three each from Spain and Italy, have threatened to secede.

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money.

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money. 1955: the launch as a private super league While there had been cross-border club competitions, such as the pre-war Mitropa Cup, French newspaper L'Equipe kicked off modern European club competition when it suggested the creation of a Champion Clubs' Cup. UEFA, the governing body of European football, initially wanted nothing to do with it and were prepared to let the clubs get on with it. Global governing body FIFA, however, concerned that such a competition would flourish outside its official structures, pushed UEFA to jump on the bandwagon and give its approval. The European Cup started in the 1955-56 season with clubs from 15 nations and the Saarland, a French protectorate in Germany. The entries did not include a club from England, which turned its nose up at the idea and refused to enter champions Chelsea. Only seven of the 16 club were reigning national champions. Some, such as Dutch champions Holland Sport and Scottish champions Aberdeen refused to take part and were replaced by other clubs from their leagues. In some countries, the national champions were passed over in favour of more famous or better-connected clubs. The following year, UEFA required each country to send its national champion. The Champions Cup was quickly joined by the Intercity Fairs Cup, in which cities at first entered combined teams. It became the first European competition with more entries for the big countries as it evolved into the UEFA Cup and then the Europa League. The Cup Winners Cup was founded in 1960 and lasted until 1999. 1991: More matches The big clubs first got their way in the early 1990s. For 1991-1992, UEFA agreed to introduce group stages to guarantee more matches. In that season, after two knockout rounds, the last eight competed in two groups of four, with the winners, Barcelona and Sampdoria, qualifying for the final. The following season, the competition was rebranded the Champions League. From 1994-1995, the group stage was moved to the beginning of the tournament. 1997: More clubs The big clubs scored a second victory in 1997 when runners up from nine of the biggest leagues were allowed to enter. In 1999, up to four clubs were allowed from each country - in the first season Italy, Germany and Spain were the beneficiaries - and a second group phase was introduced for the round of 16. That increased the number of matches and, therefore, revenue. It also reduced the risk of giant-killing upsets, but the predictability and meaningless matches late in the group stages also drained much of the drama. The second group phase was abandoned in the 2002-2003 season but the first group phase was kept to weed out the real minnows while guaranteeing qualifiers at least six games. 2020: The 'Super' League Despite the tremendous popularity of the competition, the big clubs forever want more. Their solution is a closed or semi-closed European league, the 'Super League'. The powerful European Club Association, dominated by the biggest clubs, was the first to brandish the threat. That pressure prompted UEFA to come up with the proposed Champions League reform this week, with an initial phase of 36 clubs each playing 10 matches against different opponents. While the majority of the ECA's 200 or so member and associate clubs are happy with the plan, 12, six from England and three each from Spain and Italy, have threatened to secede.

In the Champions League, the elite have always battled the rest

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed. <o:p></o:p>

City are one of 12 clubs to have signed up to the much-talked-about European Super League, alongside Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.<o:p></o:p>

The Super League would guarantee a sport for 15 founding members every season while removing the uncertainty of qualification and the risks to the revenue. However, it has come under severe scrutiny as experts say it is against the integrity of the sport.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-doubt-that-fifa-disapproves-of-super-league-infantino-378785" hreflang="en">'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino</a>

"It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," Guardiola said on Tuesday. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose.<o:p></o:p>

"It's not fair when one team fight, fight, fight, arrive at the top and after cannot qualify because the success is already guaranteed just for a few clubs.<o:p></o:p>

"People say five clubs can go up and play this competition, but what happens if these 15 don't play a good season and will be there. This is not a sport."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/self-serving-super-league-opens-unprecedented-conflict-in-european-football-378791" hreflang="en">'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football</a>

Guardiola further voiced for other managers of the breakaway clubs saying they have been put in an “uncomfortable” position to having to attend press conferences before a clear picture is given by the club executives to explain the proposal and their decision in detail.<o:p></o:p>

While one of Guardiola’s former clubs Barcelona have signed up for the Super League, another former employers Bayern Munich have rejected the plans.<o:p></o:p>

Guardiola further questioned the selection of 12 clubs as four-time European champions Ajax have not been involved in the Super League proposals. <o:p></o:p>

"They have the duty and obligation to say as soon as possible," he added.<o:p></o:p>

"To come out all around the world because it is a worldwide issue and clarify why these ones are in and the other ones not. Why Ajax Amsterdam, they have four Champions Leagues, is not there? They have to tell all of us."<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola on Tuesday criticised the closed format of the breakaway Super League as he said it is “not sport” if success is guaranteed. City are one of 12 clubs to have signed up to the much-talked-about European Super League, alongside Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The Super League would guarantee a sport for 15 founding members every season while removing the uncertainty of qualification and the risks to the revenue. However, it has come under severe scrutiny as experts say it is against the integrity of the sport. ALSO READ: 'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino "It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," Guardiola said on Tuesday. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose. "It's not fair when one team fight, fight, fight, arrive at the top and after cannot qualify because the success is already guaranteed just for a few clubs. "People say five clubs can go up and play this competition, but what happens if these 15 don't play a good season and will be there. This is not a sport." ALSO READ: 'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football Guardiola further voiced for other managers of the breakaway clubs saying they have been put in an “uncomfortable” position to having to attend press conferences before a clear picture is given by the club executives to explain the proposal and their decision in detail. While one of Guardiola’s former clubs Barcelona have signed up for the Super League, another former employers Bayern Munich have rejected the plans. Guardiola further questioned the selection of 12 clubs as four-time European champions Ajax have not been involved in the Super League proposals. "They have the duty and obligation to say as soon as possible," he added. "To come out all around the world because it is a worldwide issue and clarify why these ones are in and the other ones not. Why Ajax Amsterdam, they have four Champions Leagues, is not there? They have to tell all of us."

Not a sport when success is guaranteed: Man City's Pep Guardiola responds to ESL development

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan.

However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals.

"There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson.

Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money.

"For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans.

"It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it.

"Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify.

Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year.

In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams.

"Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?"

Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday.

But he said he would not resign over the plans.

"My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League.

"I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that.

"I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow."

Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway. The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan. However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals. "There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson. Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money. "For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans. "It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it. "Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it." Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify. Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports. "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year. In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams. "Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?" Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday. But he said he would not resign over the plans. "My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League. "I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that. "I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow." Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

'Hopefully it doesn't happen' - Liverpool captain Milner against Super League

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures.

Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments.

The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham.

It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right".

It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited.

Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card.

Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities.

In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red."

Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition.

<h2>- Threat to grassroots -</h2>

Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition.

"Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted.

The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League.

Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable".

It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition.

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League.

Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan.

"The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said.

"It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League. It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures. Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments. The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham. It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right". It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited. Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card. Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities. In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red." Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition. - Threat to grassroots - Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition. "Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted. The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League. Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable". It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition. The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League. Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan. "The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said. "It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British PM vows to show Super League 'red card' ahead of meeting with football chiefs

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually.

The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future.

Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said,&nbsp;vowing a "very robust response".

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

<h2>- Champions League reform -</h2>

European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups.

However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal".

The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League.

The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals.

<h2>- Bayern not in favour -</h2>

The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final.

Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation."

However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year.

The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious.

"It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match.

Players have also&nbsp;voiced their disapproval.

"I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday.

<h2>- FIFA's 'disapproval' -</h2>

Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots.

Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May.

World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue".

The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best".

The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down.

Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin.

"I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said.

But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes.

"Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway. Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually. The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future. Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said, vowing a "very robust response". The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. - Champions League reform - European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups. However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal". The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League. The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals. - Bayern not in favour - The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final. Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation." However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year. The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious. "It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match. Players have also voiced their disapproval. "I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday. - FIFA's 'disapproval' - Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots. Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue". The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best". The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down. Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin. "I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said. But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes. "Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission.

"Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem."

Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league.

"We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter.

"There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football.

"Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully. Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission. "Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem." Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league. "We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter. "There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football. "Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

Super League 'not the EU's responsibility': official

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport.

"At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland.

"There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this."

Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke.

"It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino.

"They are responsible for their choices.

"Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences". Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport. "At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland. "There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this." Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke. "It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino. "They are responsible for their choices. "Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

"The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA.

"There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said.

Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed.

"We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters.

The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League.

Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday. "The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA. "There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said. Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed. "We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters. The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League. Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man City could face Champions League semi-final ban: UEFA official

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-explained-what-is-the-format-and-purpose-behind-it-all-you-need-to-know-378604" hreflang="en">European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know</a>

UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening".

The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-media-blast-clubs-leading-european-super-league-breakaway-378596" hreflang="en">British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway</a>

The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups. Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed. ALSO READ: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening". The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs. ALSO READ: British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport.

"I can confirm that we are financing the deal, but have no further comment at the moment," a bank spokesman said in a statement to AFP.

Each of the clubs from England, Italy and Spain will receive a one-off payment of 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion).

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham -- are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.

The clubs were immediately accused of greed and cynicism and threatened with international exile.

Organisers said in a statement that three more founding members would be announced, with a further five places up for grabs through a qualifying system each year and the inaugural edition to start as "soon as practicable".

The Super League announcement appeared to be timed to pre-empt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams from 32 and two 'wildcard' slots expected to be among the plans. There would be a minimum of 10 games for each team.

UEFA and the three countries' football associations and domestic leagues described the breakaway as "cynical".

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life said "a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion" must be defended.&nbsp;

EU commissioner Margaritis Schinas added on Twitter:

"There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football.

"Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

Schinas did not, however, announce any action to prevent the breakaway nor state that it would break any EU law.

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport.

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport. "I can confirm that we are financing the deal, but have no further comment at the moment," a bank spokesman said in a statement to AFP. Each of the clubs from England, Italy and Spain will receive a one-off payment of 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion). Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham -- are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The clubs were immediately accused of greed and cynicism and threatened with international exile. Organisers said in a statement that three more founding members would be announced, with a further five places up for grabs through a qualifying system each year and the inaugural edition to start as "soon as practicable". The Super League announcement appeared to be timed to pre-empt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams from 32 and two 'wildcard' slots expected to be among the plans. There would be a minimum of 10 games for each team. UEFA and the three countries' football associations and domestic leagues described the breakaway as "cynical". The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life said "a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion" must be defended. EU commissioner Margaritis Schinas added on Twitter: "There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football. "Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life." Schinas did not, however, announce any action to prevent the breakaway nor state that it would break any EU law.

US bank JPMorgan says it's financing football Super League

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game.

Six Premier League teams -&nbsp;Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham - are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.

The clubs, most of them saddled with debt and large wage bills, and hit hard by the pandemic, stand to benefit financially, with predictions that they will share billions of euros.

But the initial reaction from football authorities, fans and pundits was furious, with threats to ban participating clubs from domestic, European and world competitions.

"Our members and football supporters across the world have experienced the ultimate betrayal," the Chelsea Supporters' Trust said.

"This is unforgivable. Enough is enough," it added.

The ESL said the founding clubs had agreed to create a "new midweek competition" to start "as soon as practicable" but that they would continue to play in their domestic leagues.

Three more clubs would be announced, the statement said, with the 15 founder members guaranteed to play each year. Another five places will available "based on achievements in the prior season".

The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -&nbsp;much more than is available in the Champions League.

"I think there are two things in play here: one is greed and the other is desperation," former England Football Association and Manchester City chairman&nbsp;David Bernstein&nbsp;told the BBC.&nbsp;

"I think they're in a desperate situation. One of the things they haven't done during the pandemic is to impose some sort of wages control. They've got themselves into a bit of a predicament."

<h2>- UEFA threat -</h2>

Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-based teams would play off for the two remaining spots.

Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. A women's version is also planned.

But European governing body UEFA and the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities warned the clubs face being barred from their national competitions and the Champions League.

"We... will remain united in our efforts to stop this cynical project," read a joint statement.

UEFA also said players from the participating clubs "could be denied the opportunity to represent their national teams".

World body FIFA was less stringent, however, expressing its "disapproval" and calling on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the clubs "must answer to their fans and the wider footballing community before taking any further steps".

With no French team among the initial ESL clubs, President Emmanuel Macron said the plans risked "threatening the principle of solidarity and sporting merit".

The ESL announcement was timed to preempt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams and an increase in the number of games.

The European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the Super League while the Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement.

"Fans of any club in England and across Europe can currently dream that their team may climb to the top and play against the best," it said.

"We believe that the concept of a European Super League would destroy this dream."

<h2>- 'Lots more to do' -</h2>

Arsenal, who are ninth in the Premier League, well off the qualification spots for Europe, hinted at the obstacles ahead, saying "there's lots more to do to bring the competition to life".

Juventus also warned that it "cannot assure that the project will be eventually successfully launched".

Juventus are facing a battle to finish in the Serie A top four this season, and seven-time European champions AC Milan have not played in the Champions League since 2014.

Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first ESL president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes.

"Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.&nbsp;

Manchester United's American co-chairman Joel Glazer, who will be a vice-chairman of the Super League, said it "will open a new chapter for European football".&nbsp;

French and German clubs, including reigning European champions Bayern Munich and last season's beaten finalists Paris Saint-Germain, were not among the initial ESL clubs.

La Liga president Javier Tebas compared the ESL clubs to drunks leaving a bar at 5:00am "intoxicated with selfishness and a lack of solidarity".

Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville called the project "an absolute disgrace".&nbsp;

"We have to wrestle back power from the clubs at the top of this league and that includes my club," he said.

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game.

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game. Six Premier League teams - Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham - are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The clubs, most of them saddled with debt and large wage bills, and hit hard by the pandemic, stand to benefit financially, with predictions that they will share billions of euros. But the initial reaction from football authorities, fans and pundits was furious, with threats to ban participating clubs from domestic, European and world competitions. "Our members and football supporters across the world have experienced the ultimate betrayal," the Chelsea Supporters' Trust said. "This is unforgivable. Enough is enough," it added. The ESL said the founding clubs had agreed to create a "new midweek competition" to start "as soon as practicable" but that they would continue to play in their domestic leagues. Three more clubs would be announced, the statement said, with the 15 founder members guaranteed to play each year. Another five places will available "based on achievements in the prior season". The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment - much more than is available in the Champions League. "I think there are two things in play here: one is greed and the other is desperation," former England Football Association and Manchester City chairman David Bernstein told the BBC. "I think they're in a desperate situation. One of the things they haven't done during the pandemic is to impose some sort of wages control. They've got themselves into a bit of a predicament." - UEFA threat - Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-based teams would play off for the two remaining spots. Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. A women's version is also planned. But European governing body UEFA and the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities warned the clubs face being barred from their national competitions and the Champions League. "We... will remain united in our efforts to stop this cynical project," read a joint statement. UEFA also said players from the participating clubs "could be denied the opportunity to represent their national teams". World body FIFA was less stringent, however, expressing its "disapproval" and calling on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the clubs "must answer to their fans and the wider footballing community before taking any further steps". With no French team among the initial ESL clubs, President Emmanuel Macron said the plans risked "threatening the principle of solidarity and sporting merit". The ESL announcement was timed to preempt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams and an increase in the number of games. The European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the Super League while the Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement. "Fans of any club in England and across Europe can currently dream that their team may climb to the top and play against the best," it said. "We believe that the concept of a European Super League would destroy this dream." - 'Lots more to do' - Arsenal, who are ninth in the Premier League, well off the qualification spots for Europe, hinted at the obstacles ahead, saying "there's lots more to do to bring the competition to life". Juventus also warned that it "cannot assure that the project will be eventually successfully launched". Juventus are facing a battle to finish in the Serie A top four this season, and seven-time European champions AC Milan have not played in the Champions League since 2014. Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first ESL president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes. "Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said. Manchester United's American co-chairman Joel Glazer, who will be a vice-chairman of the Super League, said it "will open a new chapter for European football". French and German clubs, including reigning European champions Bayern Munich and last season's beaten finalists Paris Saint-Germain, were not among the initial ESL clubs. La Liga president Javier Tebas compared the ESL clubs to drunks leaving a bar at 5:00am "intoxicated with selfishness and a lack of solidarity". Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville called the project "an absolute disgrace". "We have to wrestle back power from the clubs at the top of this league and that includes my club," he said.

European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league.<o:p></o:p>

But what is European Super League? What is the format of the tournament? Will it go ahead after the critical reactions from the footballing world? Let us take a look at the main things and explanation about the European Super League – all you need to know.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What is European Super League?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: Twelve clubs from England, Spain and Italy agreed to start a new competition – the Super League – governed by its founding clubs. The competition is a direct rival to the UEFA-run Champions League. <o:p></o:p>

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the English clubs involved, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are the Spanish teams and the Italian sides are AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. The teams have 99 European titles between them.<o:p></o:p>

Another three teams are likely to join the founding clubs. It guarantees participation to all 15 founding clubs while the other five qualify annually.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-heavyweights-face-criticism-over-cynical-super-league-378591" hreflang="en">European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What is the format of European Super League?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: The European Super League will feature two groups of 10 playing home and away and three qualifying for the quarter-finals. <o:p></o:p>

The fourth and fifth-placed clubs will play off for the quarter-final spots and quarter and semis will be played over two legs. The final will be a single match at a neutral venue.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">European Super League – what is the purpose behind it?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: Europe’s top clubs want guaranteed income. With UEFA Champions League being played with a qualification process, the clubs don’t want to risk the money coming from European club tournaments. <o:p></o:p>

The clubs, saddled with big debts and huge wages for their star players, say the pandemic has "accelerated the instability in the existing European football economic model".<o:p></o:p>

The Super League will bring them far more than the Champions League. The founding clubs are expected to receive more than 10 billion euros in uncapped "solidarity payments" during their initial commitment period.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspur-sack-jose-mourinho-ryan-mason-to-take-charge-378588" hreflang="en">Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho, Ryan Mason to take charge</a>

They will also receive 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset their losses from the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

By comparison, UEFA competitions generated 3.2 billion euros in TV earnings in the pre-pandemic 2018-2019 season.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">European Super League - Will it actually happen?&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: The UEFA Super League has already been subjected to worldwide criticism including UEFA and domestic leagues. A couple of founding clubs have already taken their names back and by the looks of it, the tournament will not get much support from fans.<o:p></o:p>

FIFA's immediate reaction was less severe, although it issued a statement in January warning that it would not recognise the Super League.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league.

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league. But what is European Super League? What is the format of the tournament? Will it go ahead after the critical reactions from the footballing world? Let us take a look at the main things and explanation about the European Super League – all you need to know. What is European Super League? Explained: Twelve clubs from England, Spain and Italy agreed to start a new competition – the Super League – governed by its founding clubs. The competition is a direct rival to the UEFA-run Champions League. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the English clubs involved, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are the Spanish teams and the Italian sides are AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. The teams have 99 European titles between them. Another three teams are likely to join the founding clubs. It guarantees participation to all 15 founding clubs while the other five qualify annually. ALSO READ: European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League What is the format of European Super League? Explained: The European Super League will feature two groups of 10 playing home and away and three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed clubs will play off for the quarter-final spots and quarter and semis will be played over two legs. The final will be a single match at a neutral venue. European Super League – what is the purpose behind it? Explained: Europe’s top clubs want guaranteed income. With UEFA Champions League being played with a qualification process, the clubs don’t want to risk the money coming from European club tournaments. The clubs, saddled with big debts and huge wages for their star players, say the pandemic has "accelerated the instability in the existing European football economic model". The Super League will bring them far more than the Champions League. The founding clubs are expected to receive more than 10 billion euros in uncapped "solidarity payments" during their initial commitment period. ALSO READ: Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho, Ryan Mason to take charge They will also receive 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset their losses from the pandemic. By comparison, UEFA competitions generated 3.2 billion euros in TV earnings in the pre-pandemic 2018-2019 season. European Super League - Will it actually happen? Explained: The UEFA Super League has already been subjected to worldwide criticism including UEFA and domestic leagues. A couple of founding clubs have already taken their names back and by the looks of it, the tournament will not get much support from fans. FIFA's immediate reaction was less severe, although it issued a statement in January warning that it would not recognise the Super League.

European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues.

The British media were quick to turn their guns on the greed-motivated owners of the Premier League teams involved.

The Guardian's Jonathan Liew said: "How the world's most popular sport managed to hand over so much of its power and wealth and influence to people who despise it.

"Because make no mistake: this is an idea that could only have been devised by someone who truly hates football to its bones.

"Who hates football so much that they want to prune it, gut it, dismember it, from the grassroots game to the World Cup.

"Who finds the very idea of competitive sport offensive, an unhealthy distraction from the main objective, which in a way has always been capitalism's main objective."

Matt Dickinson, writing in The Times, was hardly more sparing in his opprobrium, comparing the owners' tactics to that of blackmailers.

<h2>- 'Shameless exploiters' -</h2>

"These shameless exploiters of football, and of our passions, have reached for the old playbook, the same blunt weapon of a European Super League," he wrote.

"Depressingly, we have to say 'why not?' when it has worked for them every time before.

"Like the blackmailer who says he will walk away for a grand but comes back asking for double, then triple, preying on our weakness, these clubs are never satisfied, never bought off.

"A billion? Make it a gazillion. Two Champions League places? Call it four. A coefficient safety net? Make it a closed league. Always more, more, more."

Daily Mail chief sportswriter Martin Samuel said punishment for the clubs competing in the "despicable plastic competition that threatens the existence of English football" should be brutal.

He suggests a united front of opposition which has worked in the past could be as effective now.&nbsp;

"The utter contempt the protagonists have for the rest of the game," he wrote.

"For the fans, especially, but for the clubs, the players, the coaches, the history and traditions; for the wider good, for the national team, the football pyramid, for everything that football has meant to communities and society stretching back across two centuries.

"It was the backlash from the ordinary supporters that killed the 39th game proposal, and it can kill this too.

"Cancel the League Cup final (next Sunday Manchester City play Tottenham Hotspur), because why should the EFL present a trophy to one of two clubs whose greed threatens to destroy their crown jewel competition, the only reason they sit at the broadcasters' table."

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned.

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned. Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues. The British media were quick to turn their guns on the greed-motivated owners of the Premier League teams involved. The Guardian's Jonathan Liew said: "How the world's most popular sport managed to hand over so much of its power and wealth and influence to people who despise it. "Because make no mistake: this is an idea that could only have been devised by someone who truly hates football to its bones. "Who hates football so much that they want to prune it, gut it, dismember it, from the grassroots game to the World Cup. "Who finds the very idea of competitive sport offensive, an unhealthy distraction from the main objective, which in a way has always been capitalism's main objective." Matt Dickinson, writing in The Times, was hardly more sparing in his opprobrium, comparing the owners' tactics to that of blackmailers. - 'Shameless exploiters' - "These shameless exploiters of football, and of our passions, have reached for the old playbook, the same blunt weapon of a European Super League," he wrote. "Depressingly, we have to say 'why not?' when it has worked for them every time before. "Like the blackmailer who says he will walk away for a grand but comes back asking for double, then triple, preying on our weakness, these clubs are never satisfied, never bought off. "A billion? Make it a gazillion. Two Champions League places? Call it four. A coefficient safety net? Make it a closed league. Always more, more, more." Daily Mail chief sportswriter Martin Samuel said punishment for the clubs competing in the "despicable plastic competition that threatens the existence of English football" should be brutal. He suggests a united front of opposition which has worked in the past could be as effective now. "The utter contempt the protagonists have for the rest of the game," he wrote. "For the fans, especially, but for the clubs, the players, the coaches, the history and traditions; for the wider good, for the national team, the football pyramid, for everything that football has meant to communities and society stretching back across two centuries. "It was the backlash from the ordinary supporters that killed the 39th game proposal, and it can kill this too. "Cancel the League Cup final (next Sunday Manchester City play Tottenham Hotspur), because why should the EFL present a trophy to one of two clubs whose greed threatens to destroy their crown jewel competition, the only reason they sit at the broadcasters' table."

British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues.

LaLiga issued a statement on the European Super League as it said that the tournament is nothing but a selfish ploy to enrich the already super rich while adding it will undermine the appeal of the whole game and leave a damaging impact on the future of the footballing ecosystem.

<h2>LaLiga's full statement on European Super League:</h2>

LaLiga strongly condemns the recently published proposal for a breakaway, elitist European competition that attacks the principles of open competition and sporting merit which are at the heart of the domestic and European football pyramid.

Today football fans across Europe can dream that their club, no matter the size, may excel, climb to the top and compete at the pinnacle of European football. LaLiga defends this European tradition of football for all. The concept proposed by 12 European clubs destroys that dream, shutting the door to the top of European football, allowing in just an elite few.

LaLiga has a proud, 90-year history as an open, merit-based competition. Millions of fans around the world follow the 42 clubs of LaLiga Santander and LaLiga SmartBank. The success of our competitions has helped football to become a key contributor to the Spanish economy, accounting for nearly 1.4% of GDP and providing employment for nearly 200,000 people.

The newly proposed top European competition is nothing more than a selfish, egotistical proposal designed to further enrich the already super rich. It will undermine the appeal of the whole game and have a deeply damaging impact on the immediate and future of LaLiga, its member clubs, and all the entire footballing ecosystem.

In addition, the breakaway league threatens the rest of Spanish sports to which, in the current season, LaLiga will contribute more than 126 million euros as part of its agreement with the Spanish government and the Spanish FA.

This destruction of the European football ecosystem will also ultimately cause the failure of this new competition and its participating clubs, which have built their success based on the achievement of sports titles and triumphs, which will now be more limited.

We use all measures at our disposal and work with all stakeholders to defend the integrity and future of Spanish football in the best interests of the game.

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition.

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition. Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues. LaLiga issued a statement on the European Super League as it said that the tournament is nothing but a selfish ploy to enrich the already super rich while adding it will undermine the appeal of the whole game and leave a damaging impact on the future of the footballing ecosystem. LaLiga's full statement on European Super League: LaLiga strongly condemns the recently published proposal for a breakaway, elitist European competition that attacks the principles of open competition and sporting merit which are at the heart of the domestic and European football pyramid. Today football fans across Europe can dream that their club, no matter the size, may excel, climb to the top and compete at the pinnacle of European football. LaLiga defends this European tradition of football for all. The concept proposed by 12 European clubs destroys that dream, shutting the door to the top of European football, allowing in just an elite few. LaLiga has a proud, 90-year history as an open, merit-based competition. Millions of fans around the world follow the 42 clubs of LaLiga Santander and LaLiga SmartBank. The success of our competitions has helped football to become a key contributor to the Spanish economy, accounting for nearly 1.4% of GDP and providing employment for nearly 200,000 people. The newly proposed top European competition is nothing more than a selfish, egotistical proposal designed to further enrich the already super rich. It will undermine the appeal of the whole game and have a deeply damaging impact on the immediate and future of LaLiga, its member clubs, and all the entire footballing ecosystem. In addition, the breakaway league threatens the rest of Spanish sports to which, in the current season, LaLiga will contribute more than 126 million euros as part of its agreement with the Spanish government and the Spanish FA. This destruction of the European football ecosystem will also ultimately cause the failure of this new competition and its participating clubs, which have built their success based on the achievement of sports titles and triumphs, which will now be more limited. We use all measures at our disposal and work with all stakeholders to defend the integrity and future of Spanish football in the best interests of the game.

European Super League: LaLiga condemns the proposal for a breakaway elitist European competition

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League.

In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League".

He added that the two German clubs on the ECA board, Bayern and Dortmund, had taken "100 percent" the same position "in all discussions".

The announcement appears to confirm that neither of Germany's two biggest clubs will join the breakaway league, whose announcement on Sunday threw European football into turmoil.

Overnight, 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs announced the launch of the so-called European Super League to oversee a new midweek competition.&nbsp;

Six of the breakaway clubs are from the English Premier League. Three are Spanish and three Italian. Three more are to be announced.

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League. In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League".

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League. In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League". He added that the two German clubs on the ECA board, Bayern and Dortmund, had taken "100 percent" the same position "in all discussions". The announcement appears to confirm that neither of Germany's two biggest clubs will join the breakaway league, whose announcement on Sunday threw European football into turmoil. Overnight, 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs announced the launch of the so-called European Super League to oversee a new midweek competition. Six of the breakaway clubs are from the English Premier League. Three are Spanish and three Italian. Three more are to be announced.

Dortmund, Bayern 'reject' Super League plans: Borussia chairman

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved.

"Any club or player involved in such a competition would as a consequence not be allowed to participate in any competition organised by FIFA or their respective confederation," said Thursday's statement, signed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino along with the heads of all six continental confederations including UEFA.

The statement was a response to what it called "recent media speculation" about a breakaway by some of the world's richest clubs.

In October, outgoing Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu dropped a bombshell in a statement announcing his resignation, as he also claimed the club had accepted a proposal to join other clubs in "a future European Super League".

That followed reports in the UK that negotiations were nearing conclusion for the creation of a closed "European Premier League" of 18 clubs, backed by $6 billion of financing from major banks.

However, those reports came with discussions still ongoing about the future format of the UEFA Champions League, the world's most lucrative and prestigious club competition.

<h2>- 'Protect the existing model' -</h2>

The European Leagues organisation, which represents leagues in 29 countries across the continent, said it "unanimously" supported FIFA's statement and rejected any attempts to follow the North American franchise model for professional sports.

"In the European football pyramid, every player has the opportunity to play in a club which can qualify from the base of the pyramid to the very top of professional football," European Leagues president Lars-Christer Olsson said in a statement.

"This is the foundation of the model and the main reason for football's success.

"We are determined to protect the existing model and how football is organised in Europe and the way the industry works for professional football."

Meanwhile, FIFA remains focused on plans for an expanded, 24-team Club World Cup, championed by Infantino.

The competition was due to take place for the first time this year in China but was put back to a later date after Euro 2020 and the Copa America were postponed to June and July 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The delayed 2020 edition of the Club World Cup will go ahead next month in its existing format, involving only the champions of each confederation -- minus New Zealand's Auckland City of Oceania who withdrew due to complications caused by the pandemic -- plus the champions of the host nation Qatar.

"As per the FIFA and confederations statutes, all competitions should be organised or recognised by the relevant body at their respective level, by FIFA at the global level and by the confederations at the continental level," FIFA said.

"In this respect, the confederations recognise the FIFA Club World Cup, in its current and new format, as the only worldwide club competition while FIFA recognises the club competitions organised by the confederations as the only club continental competitions."

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved.

FIFA has gone on the offensive amid ongoing speculation about a European Super League, insisting that any breakaway by leading clubs "would not be recognised by either FIFA or the respective confederation" while players would risk being banned from the World Cup and other major tournaments if involved. "Any club or player involved in such a competition would as a consequence not be allowed to participate in any competition organised by FIFA or their respective confederation," said Thursday's statement, signed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino along with the heads of all six continental confederations including UEFA. The statement was a response to what it called "recent media speculation" about a breakaway by some of the world's richest clubs. In October, outgoing Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu dropped a bombshell in a statement announcing his resignation, as he also claimed the club had accepted a proposal to join other clubs in "a future European Super League". That followed reports in the UK that negotiations were nearing conclusion for the creation of a closed "European Premier League" of 18 clubs, backed by $6 billion of financing from major banks. However, those reports came with discussions still ongoing about the future format of the UEFA Champions League, the world's most lucrative and prestigious club competition. - 'Protect the existing model' - The European Leagues organisation, which represents leagues in 29 countries across the continent, said it "unanimously" supported FIFA's statement and rejected any attempts to follow the North American franchise model for professional sports. "In the European football pyramid, every player has the opportunity to play in a club which can qualify from the base of the pyramid to the very top of professional football," European Leagues president Lars-Christer Olsson said in a statement. "This is the foundation of the model and the main reason for football's success. "We are determined to protect the existing model and how football is organised in Europe and the way the industry works for professional football." Meanwhile, FIFA remains focused on plans for an expanded, 24-team Club World Cup, championed by Infantino. The competition was due to take place for the first time this year in China but was put back to a later date after Euro 2020 and the Copa America were postponed to June and July 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The delayed 2020 edition of the Club World Cup will go ahead next month in its existing format, involving only the champions of each confederation -- minus New Zealand's Auckland City of Oceania who withdrew due to complications caused by the pandemic -- plus the champions of the host nation Qatar. "As per the FIFA and confederations statutes, all competitions should be organised or recognised by the relevant body at their respective level, by FIFA at the global level and by the confederations at the continental level," FIFA said. "In this respect, the confederations recognise the FIFA Club World Cup, in its current and new format, as the only worldwide club competition while FIFA recognises the club competitions organised by the confederations as the only club continental competitions."

Breakaway European Super League 'would not be recognised' by FIFA

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