Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute.

Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net.

Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance.

"We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said.

"It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1."

This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition.

It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves.

<h2>UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE</h2>

The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs.

Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot.

Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post.

The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time.

The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end.

Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29.

"We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different."

"We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic. Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute. Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net. Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance. "We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said. "It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1." This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition. It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves. UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs. Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot. Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post. The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time. The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end. Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29. "We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different." "We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Champions League: Benzema stunner for Real frustrates impressive Chelsea

Brendan Rodgers has hailed "phenomenal" Kelechi Iheanacho after the red-hot forward struck again as Leicester strengthened their grip on a Champions League spot -- further vindicating his decision to pair him with Jamie Vardy.

The 24-year-old Nigeria international's 10th Premier League goal of the season -- and 17th in all competitions -- secured &nbsp;a 2-1 win for the Foxes against Crystal Palace on Monday.

He has now scored more goals in the top-flight this season than he managed for Leicester over the previous three campaigns.

Leicester, who suffered the agony of missing out on the top four on the final day of last season, now have a seven-point lead over fifth-placed West Ham with just five games to play.

Iheanacho and Vardy only started eight games together last season and did not do so this campaign until February 28 -- due to injuries to other players, including James Maddison.

But they have both played every match since.

"The top priority for me as a coach is helping players to develop," said Rodgers. "It's been difficult for Kels because of the style we normally played, which was one striker -- Jamie Vardy.

"We had to change it around with injuries, he's come in and been exceptional. Not just his goals, he's so happy to work hard for the team and his quality is phenomenal."

Iheanacho has netted 14 goals in his last 14 appearances for Leicester in all competitions, as many as he managed in his previous 76 for the Foxes.

Rodgers said the forward, who joined Leicester from Manchester City in 2017, was a selfless player, shown by the way he set up Timothy Castagne for the equaliser against Palace.

"Over the last few months Kelechi has been absolutely incredible," said Rodgers. "It wasn't just his goal but his work-rate, he wants to press the game. He has no ego whatsoever and he works so hard."

Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel is not surprised by Iheanacho's hot streak, having experienced his accuracy in training.

"Kele is incredibly intelligent when it comes to his finishing," Schmeichel told Sky Sports. "He does it in training all the time. He's a nightmare in training to be fair.

"He's just a big strong lad who can put himself about. He's fast, he's got absolutely everything to be a top striker and he's showing it now, which is great."

Iheanacho is on track to become the first player other than Vardy to top the club's goalscoring charts since 2014/15.

"That (race to be top scorer) is not what we talk about," Iheanacho told the BBC.

"As a team we work for each other, it doesn't matter who scores the goals. There's so much to improve in games so I'll keep going, keep doing my best."

Brendan Rodgers has hailed "phenomenal" Kelechi Iheanacho after the red-hot forward struck again as Leicester strengthened their grip on a Champions League spot -- further vindicating his decision to pair him with Jamie Vardy.

Brendan Rodgers has hailed "phenomenal" Kelechi Iheanacho after the red-hot forward struck again as Leicester strengthened their grip on a Champions League spot -- further vindicating his decision to pair him with Jamie Vardy. The 24-year-old Nigeria international's 10th Premier League goal of the season -- and 17th in all competitions -- secured a 2-1 win for the Foxes against Crystal Palace on Monday. He has now scored more goals in the top-flight this season than he managed for Leicester over the previous three campaigns. Leicester, who suffered the agony of missing out on the top four on the final day of last season, now have a seven-point lead over fifth-placed West Ham with just five games to play. Iheanacho and Vardy only started eight games together last season and did not do so this campaign until February 28 -- due to injuries to other players, including James Maddison. But they have both played every match since. "The top priority for me as a coach is helping players to develop," said Rodgers. "It's been difficult for Kels because of the style we normally played, which was one striker -- Jamie Vardy. "We had to change it around with injuries, he's come in and been exceptional. Not just his goals, he's so happy to work hard for the team and his quality is phenomenal." Iheanacho has netted 14 goals in his last 14 appearances for Leicester in all competitions, as many as he managed in his previous 76 for the Foxes. Rodgers said the forward, who joined Leicester from Manchester City in 2017, was a selfless player, shown by the way he set up Timothy Castagne for the equaliser against Palace. "Over the last few months Kelechi has been absolutely incredible," said Rodgers. "It wasn't just his goal but his work-rate, he wants to press the game. He has no ego whatsoever and he works so hard." Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel is not surprised by Iheanacho's hot streak, having experienced his accuracy in training. "Kele is incredibly intelligent when it comes to his finishing," Schmeichel told Sky Sports. "He does it in training all the time. He's a nightmare in training to be fair. "He's just a big strong lad who can put himself about. He's fast, he's got absolutely everything to be a top striker and he's showing it now, which is great." Iheanacho is on track to become the first player other than Vardy to top the club's goalscoring charts since 2014/15. "That (race to be top scorer) is not what we talk about," Iheanacho told the BBC. "As a team we work for each other, it doesn't matter who scores the goals. There's so much to improve in games so I'll keep going, keep doing my best."

Rodgers hails 'phenomenal' Iheanacho as Leicester close in on top four

Julian Nagelsmann will take over as Bayern Munich coach from next season to replace Hansi Flick, the reigning German and European champions announced on Tuesday.

Nagelsmann, 33, will move from RB Leipzig on a five-year contract after Flick, whose relationship with the club's powerful sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has deteriorated, asked to be released from his contract.

"FC Bayern agreed to current head coach Hansi Flick's request to have his contract terminated on 30 June 2021, two years earlier than its original expiry date," the club said in a statement.

Nagelsmann has never hidden his desire to coach Bayern, especially as he comes from the Bavaria region.

Last season, he led Leipzig to the semi-finals of the Champions League and this season his side has replaced Borussia Dortmund as Bayern's main title challengers.

Julian Nagelsmann will take over as Bayern Munich coach from next season to replace Hansi Flick, the reigning German and European champions announced on Tuesday.

Julian Nagelsmann will take over as Bayern Munich coach from next season to replace Hansi Flick, the reigning German and European champions announced on Tuesday. Nagelsmann, 33, will move from RB Leipzig on a five-year contract after Flick, whose relationship with the club's powerful sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has deteriorated, asked to be released from his contract. "FC Bayern agreed to current head coach Hansi Flick's request to have his contract terminated on 30 June 2021, two years earlier than its original expiry date," the club said in a statement. Nagelsmann has never hidden his desire to coach Bayern, especially as he comes from the Bavaria region. Last season, he led Leipzig to the semi-finals of the Champions League and this season his side has replaced Borussia Dortmund as Bayern's main title challengers.

Nagelsmann to coach Bayern Munich from next season

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week.

Yet his route to the top, sidestepping the usual youth academy apprenticeship, is variously described by his former coaches in Sarcelles as "unlikely" and the player himself as an "anomaly".

Now 30, the winger has been a key player for City this season, scoring in their Champions League quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund and playing the 90 minutes as Pep Guardiola's side defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the English League Cup final on Sunday.

He has also won the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria, the country from where his father emigrated to France.

Mahrez himself grew up in Sarcelles, in the "banlieues" around 20 kilometres north of Paris, and learned the game at a local amateur club, leaving a mark on those who played with him as he made his journey to one of Europe's biggest sides.

"The only person who believed was Riyad himself," Hayel Mbemba, who played with Mahrez at AAS Sarcelles, told AFP. "He has a strength of character which is above the average. He is football crazy, and that is an understatement."

"He owes his success entirely to himself. He had an unwavering self-confidence. Some people might think it's arrogance but it's not the case," explains Mohamed Coulibaly, who runs the local club.

The production line of world-class players coming through the Paris suburbs is remarkable and seemingly never-ending, from Thierry Henry to Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe and many more in between.&nbsp;

<h2>- Frail -</h2>

However, while Mahrez was always a young player with outstanding technical gifts, that was no guarantee he would make it in the game.

His former coaches recall how his frail physique seemed to work against him, but aged 18 he left Sarcelles for a trial at Quimper, an amateur fourth-tier club in distant Brittany.

From there he earned a professional deal at Le Havre, the second-division club where Pogba first played.

Mahrez spent four years in the Normandy port city before crossing the English Channel to sign for Leicester City, then in the second-tier Championship.

He has never looked back since moving to England, but sources close to Mahrez say he was "hesitant" and that he "sought the advice of his friends in Sarcelles who convinced him to go".

It is just as well he went.

Mahrez won the English Premier League with Leicester, against all odds, in 2016 and is now on the brink of a second Premier League title in three seasons with City.

The Champions League could follow, if Mahrez can help City get the better of his home-town club first.

"His journey is something of an anomaly in football. He has beaten the odds all thanks to his technical ability," says Mbemba, and there is a belief that missing out on youth academy coaching has allowed him to retain an element of the street footballer so rarely seen in the modern game.

"When I watch him on the television he dribbles in the same way he did when he was 10 years old," says Franck Satougle, who once coached Mahrez.

Satougle watched Mahrez play as a kid and remembers how, even after he turned professional at Le Havre, he would come back to Sarcelles on a Sunday and play in the neighbourhood where he grew up.

<h2>- Local pride -</h2>

"His journey is the dream of every kid in the 'banlieues'. He is just a few steps away from winning the greatest trophy in European football despite his unlikely route to the top."

Sarcelles may be PSG territory, but there is still plenty of local pride at Mahrez's success.

"Riyad is a respected person with exemplary physical and mental discipline. He is a source of inspiration for the people of Sarcelles," says Patrick Haddad, the mayor of the town. He awarded Mahrez the medal of Sarcelles in 2019.&nbsp;

Mahrez may be the captain of Algeria but he remains attached to the suburb where he grew up and is involved in a scheme which allows youths from Sarcelles to travel to Manchester to watch City.

A stadium named after Mahrez will be inaugurated later this year in Sarcelles.

"He is a good lad who is still a child at heart and who expresses himself with the ball," adds Mbemba.

PSG had better watch out.&nbsp;

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week.

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week. Yet his route to the top, sidestepping the usual youth academy apprenticeship, is variously described by his former coaches in Sarcelles as "unlikely" and the player himself as an "anomaly". Now 30, the winger has been a key player for City this season, scoring in their Champions League quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund and playing the 90 minutes as Pep Guardiola's side defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the English League Cup final on Sunday. He has also won the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria, the country from where his father emigrated to France. Mahrez himself grew up in Sarcelles, in the "banlieues" around 20 kilometres north of Paris, and learned the game at a local amateur club, leaving a mark on those who played with him as he made his journey to one of Europe's biggest sides. "The only person who believed was Riyad himself," Hayel Mbemba, who played with Mahrez at AAS Sarcelles, told AFP. "He has a strength of character which is above the average. He is football crazy, and that is an understatement." "He owes his success entirely to himself. He had an unwavering self-confidence. Some people might think it's arrogance but it's not the case," explains Mohamed Coulibaly, who runs the local club. The production line of world-class players coming through the Paris suburbs is remarkable and seemingly never-ending, from Thierry Henry to Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe and many more in between. - Frail - However, while Mahrez was always a young player with outstanding technical gifts, that was no guarantee he would make it in the game. His former coaches recall how his frail physique seemed to work against him, but aged 18 he left Sarcelles for a trial at Quimper, an amateur fourth-tier club in distant Brittany. From there he earned a professional deal at Le Havre, the second-division club where Pogba first played. Mahrez spent four years in the Normandy port city before crossing the English Channel to sign for Leicester City, then in the second-tier Championship. He has never looked back since moving to England, but sources close to Mahrez say he was "hesitant" and that he "sought the advice of his friends in Sarcelles who convinced him to go". It is just as well he went. Mahrez won the English Premier League with Leicester, against all odds, in 2016 and is now on the brink of a second Premier League title in three seasons with City. The Champions League could follow, if Mahrez can help City get the better of his home-town club first. "His journey is something of an anomaly in football. He has beaten the odds all thanks to his technical ability," says Mbemba, and there is a belief that missing out on youth academy coaching has allowed him to retain an element of the street footballer so rarely seen in the modern game. "When I watch him on the television he dribbles in the same way he did when he was 10 years old," says Franck Satougle, who once coached Mahrez. Satougle watched Mahrez play as a kid and remembers how, even after he turned professional at Le Havre, he would come back to Sarcelles on a Sunday and play in the neighbourhood where he grew up. - Local pride - "His journey is the dream of every kid in the 'banlieues'. He is just a few steps away from winning the greatest trophy in European football despite his unlikely route to the top." Sarcelles may be PSG territory, but there is still plenty of local pride at Mahrez's success. "Riyad is a respected person with exemplary physical and mental discipline. He is a source of inspiration for the people of Sarcelles," says Patrick Haddad, the mayor of the town. He awarded Mahrez the medal of Sarcelles in 2019. Mahrez may be the captain of Algeria but he remains attached to the suburb where he grew up and is involved in a scheme which allows youths from Sarcelles to travel to Manchester to watch City. A stadium named after Mahrez will be inaugurated later this year in Sarcelles. "He is a good lad who is still a child at heart and who expresses himself with the ball," adds Mbemba. PSG had better watch out.

Mahrez's 'unlikely' journey from Paris suburbs to Champions League semi against PSG

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement.

UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced.

"I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday.

"A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game.

"All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year."

Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League.

"The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane.

The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg.

Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play.

The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9.

"We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017.

"We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens."

Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January.

"He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury.

However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd". The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement. UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced. "I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday. "A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game. "All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year." Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League. "The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane. The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg. Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play. The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9. "We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017. "We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens." Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January. "He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury. However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

'Absurd' to think Real could be banned from Champions League - Zidane

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase.

Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip.

Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid.

Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8.&nbsp;

Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later.&nbsp;

"There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

"We still know that we depend on ourselves."

Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders.

Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived.

The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from.

Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over.

Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left.

Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining.

<h2>- Griezmann fires Barca -</h2>

Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month.&nbsp;

Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two.

Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win.

"The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman.&nbsp;

"The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions."

Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each.

It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year.

Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended.

Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time.

Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief.

Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on.

"The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos.&nbsp;

"It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off."

Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga.

Atletico Madrid's title hopes suffered a setback on Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at Athletic Bilbao handed Barcelona the upper hand in a thrilling race at the top of La Liga. Real Madrid's draw with Real Betis on Saturday gave Atletico the chance to pull further clear but instead they ended the weekend with their lead reduced, a loss at San Mames the latest twist in Europe's most unpredictable domestic chase. Barca had earlier beaten Villarreal by the same scoreline, with Antoine Griezmann's quick-fire double becoming all the more valuable after another Atletico slip. Sevilla have largely been overlooked as possible champions in Spain but they are right in the mix as well now after a 2-1 win over Granada puts them just three points off the top and one behind Real Madrid. Yet Barcelona were the biggest winners, with Ronald Koeman's team able to go top of the table if they win their game in hand at home to Granada on Thursday, even if Atletico might have a way back given they are still to play at Camp Nou on May 8. Real Madrid host Sevilla a day later. "There are four of us in that race and now emotionally, those who have the mental strength will be closer to winning," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone. "We still know that we depend on ourselves." Atletico have first place, for now at least, but they might be the least convincing of all the contenders. Losing to Athletic Bilbao means they have won only six of their last 14 league games, with the momentum gained from consecutive wins over Eibar and Huesca proving short-lived. The way some of Simeone's players dropped to their knees at the final whistle suggested this result, psychologically, could be difficult to recover from. Alex Berengeur had already nodded in Ander Capa's cross in the eighth minute and Athletic should have doubled their advantage in the second half but Oihan Sancet fired over. Luis Suarez, Joao Felix and Thomas Lemar all came on and Atletico grabbed a lifeline when Stefan Savic's flicked header found its way inside the back post with 13 minutes left. Simeone pumped his fists, urging his players to seek a winner, but instead there was a sucker-punch from Athletic, Inigo Martinez darting free in the box and powering a superb header past Jan Oblak with four minutes remaining. - Griezmann fires Barca - Barcelona are surely now favourites to add a La Liga title to the Copa del Rey they won earlier this month. Villarreal struck first through Samuel Chukwueze but Griezmann equalised with a sumptuous lob before capitalising on a misplaced backpass to make it two. Helped by a red card for Villarreal's Manu Trigueros shortly after the hour, Barcelona held on for a crucial win. "The players are hungry to win another trophy," said Koeman. "The league is closer, I don't know how much closer, but it is. We are on a good run and if we win the six games left, we will be champions." Griezmann started on the bench for the defeat by Real Madrid but has been recalled for the last three games in a row, repaying the faith with a goal now in each. It remains to be seen whether Barcelona see the 30-year-old as a chance to raise funds in the summer, and also whether the offers are there, but Griezmann now has 23 goals this season, and 15 since the turn of the year. Sevilla, meanwhile, pushed their case for the title and guaranteed their place in the top four but their win over Granada will be remembered for the bizarre way it ended. Both teams were made to come back out and play another minute after referee Ricardo de Burgos admitted he blew too early for full-time. Sevilla's players had already left and some of them had started to take their kit off, with midfielder Fernando pictured without his shirt on in the stands, shaking his head in disbelief. Marcos Acuna had to put his boots, socks and shinpads back on. "The referee stopped it because he thought time was up and then he told us he'd made a mistake," said Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos. "It was finished. I've never seen anything like it. We had basically taken our kit off." Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui said: "The really important thing is Sevilla has achieved something historic. The effort of these players has been extraordinary."

Atletico defeat by Athletic Bilbao hands initiative to Barcelona

Manchester United drew 0-0 with Leeds on Sunday to stay on track for a second-place finish in the Premier League as Burnley took a giant step towards safety.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men are virtually assured of a top-four finish, leading fifth-placed West Ham by 12 points with five games left but both teams looked short of imagination in a lacklustre encounter at Elland Road.

United, who are unbeaten in 24 league games on the road, have 67 points after 33 games -- they are 10 behind champions-elect Manchester City but eight points clear of third-placed Leicester.

Chasing down City already appeared a fruitless task and the stalemate means Pep Guardiola's men will be crowned champions next weekend if they beat Crystal Palace and United lose to Liverpool.

Manchester United's team bus entered Elland Road with minimum fuss, in sharp contrast to Monday, when angry Leeds fans, who had gathered in protest against the ill-fated Super League, hurled invective at Liverpool's squad.

United supporters protested at Old Trafford on Saturday and a banner reading "£2bn stolen #Glazers out" was flown over Leeds' ground before kick-off, in reference to Manchester United's unpopular owners.

Solskjaer rested Paul Pogba and Edinson Cavani from his starting line-up with one eye on Thursday's Europa League semi-final first leg against Roma.

The visitors, who won 6-2 in December's reverse fixture at Old Trafford, had the better of the chances in a disappointing game.

Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier did well to keep out a thunderous Marcus Rashford free-kick shortly before half-time while Bruno Fernandes dragged his shot wide after being set up by Aaron Wan-Bissaka shortly before the hour mark.

Minutes later Helder Costa's shot was deflected onto the roof of the net at the other end after a long diagonal pass.

Solskjaer threw on Pogba and Cavani but United could not find a way past stubborn Leeds.

"We have to win every single game to put pressure on City," said the Norwegian manager. "This is two points dropped that makes them very safe. But we push on.&nbsp;

"We have two semis coming up (both legs of the Europa League tie) and Liverpool in the middle. It was a difficult week last week but it is the business end of the season. You work so that every game matters."

<h2>- Wood hat-trick -</h2>

Earlier, Chris Wood scored a first-half hat-trick as Burnley pummelled Wolves 4-0 to lift themselves nine points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.

Wood, who is now Burnley's outright top scorer in the Premier League, is the first player from New Zealand to score a Premier League hat-trick.

The win lifted Sean Dyche's men to 14th in the table, nine points clear of 18th-placed Fulham with just five games remaining, meaning they are almost certain to secure a sixth successive season of top-flight football.

"We knew our position was in our hands and that was the main thing," Wood told the BBC. "We wanted to keep it that way and this has made it a little bit easier now but there are still five tough games to go and we will see where we lie."

West Brom are almost certainly doomed after conceding an agonising last-gasp goal to draw 2-2 at local rivals Aston Villa in the evening kick-off.

A Matheus Pereira penalty and a Tyrone Mings own goal put the visitors ahead after an early Anwar El Ghazi penalty for Villa but Keinan Davis struck in injury time to rescue a point for the home side.

The result leaves Sam Allardyce's men nine points from safety and with a significantly worse goal difference than 17th-placed Brighton.

Manchester United drew 0-0 with Leeds on Sunday to stay on track for a second-place finish in the Premier League as Burnley took a giant step towards safety. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men are virtually assured of a top-four finish, leading fifth-placed West Ham by 12 points with five games left but both teams looked short of imagination in a lacklustre encounter at Elland Road.

Manchester United drew 0-0 with Leeds on Sunday to stay on track for a second-place finish in the Premier League as Burnley took a giant step towards safety. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men are virtually assured of a top-four finish, leading fifth-placed West Ham by 12 points with five games left but both teams looked short of imagination in a lacklustre encounter at Elland Road. United, who are unbeaten in 24 league games on the road, have 67 points after 33 games -- they are 10 behind champions-elect Manchester City but eight points clear of third-placed Leicester. Chasing down City already appeared a fruitless task and the stalemate means Pep Guardiola's men will be crowned champions next weekend if they beat Crystal Palace and United lose to Liverpool. Manchester United's team bus entered Elland Road with minimum fuss, in sharp contrast to Monday, when angry Leeds fans, who had gathered in protest against the ill-fated Super League, hurled invective at Liverpool's squad. United supporters protested at Old Trafford on Saturday and a banner reading "£2bn stolen #Glazers out" was flown over Leeds' ground before kick-off, in reference to Manchester United's unpopular owners. Solskjaer rested Paul Pogba and Edinson Cavani from his starting line-up with one eye on Thursday's Europa League semi-final first leg against Roma. The visitors, who won 6-2 in December's reverse fixture at Old Trafford, had the better of the chances in a disappointing game. Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier did well to keep out a thunderous Marcus Rashford free-kick shortly before half-time while Bruno Fernandes dragged his shot wide after being set up by Aaron Wan-Bissaka shortly before the hour mark. Minutes later Helder Costa's shot was deflected onto the roof of the net at the other end after a long diagonal pass. Solskjaer threw on Pogba and Cavani but United could not find a way past stubborn Leeds. "We have to win every single game to put pressure on City," said the Norwegian manager. "This is two points dropped that makes them very safe. But we push on. "We have two semis coming up (both legs of the Europa League tie) and Liverpool in the middle. It was a difficult week last week but it is the business end of the season. You work so that every game matters." - Wood hat-trick - Earlier, Chris Wood scored a first-half hat-trick as Burnley pummelled Wolves 4-0 to lift themselves nine points clear of the Premier League relegation zone. Wood, who is now Burnley's outright top scorer in the Premier League, is the first player from New Zealand to score a Premier League hat-trick. The win lifted Sean Dyche's men to 14th in the table, nine points clear of 18th-placed Fulham with just five games remaining, meaning they are almost certain to secure a sixth successive season of top-flight football. "We knew our position was in our hands and that was the main thing," Wood told the BBC. "We wanted to keep it that way and this has made it a little bit easier now but there are still five tough games to go and we will see where we lie." West Brom are almost certainly doomed after conceding an agonising last-gasp goal to draw 2-2 at local rivals Aston Villa in the evening kick-off. A Matheus Pereira penalty and a Tyrone Mings own goal put the visitors ahead after an early Anwar El Ghazi penalty for Villa but Keinan Davis struck in injury time to rescue a point for the home side. The result leaves Sam Allardyce's men nine points from safety and with a significantly worse goal difference than 17th-placed Brighton.

Man Utd held by Leeds as Burnley pull clear of Premier League danger zone

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said winning felt much better with fans in attendance after beating Tottenham 1-0 at Wembley to lift the League Cup for the fourth consecutive year in front of 8,000 supporters on Sunday.

Aymeric Laporte's header eight minutes from time finally rewarded a dominant performance from City as they extended Spurs' 13-year wait to win a trophy.

For the first time in 13 months, a football match in England had designated fans from both teams inside the stadium in one of a series of test events at the 90,000 capacity Wembley as coronavirus restrictions are eased.

"It's not full, but it is much better," said Guardiola. "To celebrate with them is much better.

"We played really well. We are incredibly happy to win the first title, four in a row in this competition, but especially because in the last 33 games, we won 30."

Defeat by Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals last weekend means City cannot claim an unprecedented quadruple of trophies this season.

However, they remain on course for a treble with the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain to come on Wednesday before possibly sealing the Premier League title next weekend.

Victory takes Guardiola's personal tally of major trophies to 25 across his spells in charge of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City, seven of which have come in England.

"I was in big clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and here, that's why it is easier to do it," added the Catalan modestly.

By contrast, Tottenham's long wait for just one goes on. Spurs could have no complaints, though, at the end of a chaotic week that saw them sack Jose Mourinho on Monday and, along with City and four other English clubs, pull out of a proposed European Super League amid fan fury.

Son Heung-min was reduced to tears after full-time, but in caretaker boss Ryan Mason's second game in charge, Spurs were completely outclassed by a far superior side.

"It's difficult to take for everyone associated with the football club," said former Tottenham midfielder Mason.

"It hurts. I know that feeling and it is normal that they are hurting. This group of players care deeply about this football club. We tried, it wasn't enough today and it's tough to take."

After a slight dip in form in recent weeks, City were back to their best as they pinned Tottenham back from the first whistle and should have won by a far more comfortable scoreline.

Hugo Lloris's goal lived a charmed life, particularly during the first half.

Raheem Sterling saw a goalbound effort blocked by Toby Alderweireld before Lloris made a stunning save from point-blank range to turn behind Phil Foden's shot.

A Sterling dink over Lloris then spun just wide before Riyad Mahrez twice flashed powerful efforts inches off target.

Despite Harry Kane's recovery from an ankle injury to start, Tottenham had offered nothing as an attacking threat until Giovani Lo Celso forced Zack Steffen into a fine save a minute into the second half.

The majority of the chances continued to come at the other end, but the breakthrough came from an unlikely source as Laporte rose highest to head home Kevin De Bruyne's free-kick at the back post.

Spurs' energies were spent after conceding as they failed to muster any response to try and take the game to extra-time.

Mahrez had a second goal ruled out for offside in stoppage time.

But one goal was enough to ensure City move level with Liverpool on a record eight League Cup triumphs, six of which have come in the last eight years.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said winning felt much better with fans in attendance after beating Tottenham 1-0 at Wembley to lift the League Cup for the fourth consecutive year in front of 8,000 supporters on Sunday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said winning felt much better with fans in attendance after beating Tottenham 1-0 at Wembley to lift the League Cup for the fourth consecutive year in front of 8,000 supporters on Sunday. Aymeric Laporte's header eight minutes from time finally rewarded a dominant performance from City as they extended Spurs' 13-year wait to win a trophy. For the first time in 13 months, a football match in England had designated fans from both teams inside the stadium in one of a series of test events at the 90,000 capacity Wembley as coronavirus restrictions are eased. "It's not full, but it is much better," said Guardiola. "To celebrate with them is much better. "We played really well. We are incredibly happy to win the first title, four in a row in this competition, but especially because in the last 33 games, we won 30." Defeat by Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals last weekend means City cannot claim an unprecedented quadruple of trophies this season. However, they remain on course for a treble with the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain to come on Wednesday before possibly sealing the Premier League title next weekend. Victory takes Guardiola's personal tally of major trophies to 25 across his spells in charge of Barcelona, Bayern Munich and City, seven of which have come in England. "I was in big clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and here, that's why it is easier to do it," added the Catalan modestly. By contrast, Tottenham's long wait for just one goes on. Spurs could have no complaints, though, at the end of a chaotic week that saw them sack Jose Mourinho on Monday and, along with City and four other English clubs, pull out of a proposed European Super League amid fan fury. Son Heung-min was reduced to tears after full-time, but in caretaker boss Ryan Mason's second game in charge, Spurs were completely outclassed by a far superior side. "It's difficult to take for everyone associated with the football club," said former Tottenham midfielder Mason. "It hurts. I know that feeling and it is normal that they are hurting. This group of players care deeply about this football club. We tried, it wasn't enough today and it's tough to take." After a slight dip in form in recent weeks, City were back to their best as they pinned Tottenham back from the first whistle and should have won by a far more comfortable scoreline. Hugo Lloris's goal lived a charmed life, particularly during the first half. Raheem Sterling saw a goalbound effort blocked by Toby Alderweireld before Lloris made a stunning save from point-blank range to turn behind Phil Foden's shot. A Sterling dink over Lloris then spun just wide before Riyad Mahrez twice flashed powerful efforts inches off target. Despite Harry Kane's recovery from an ankle injury to start, Tottenham had offered nothing as an attacking threat until Giovani Lo Celso forced Zack Steffen into a fine save a minute into the second half. The majority of the chances continued to come at the other end, but the breakthrough came from an unlikely source as Laporte rose highest to head home Kevin De Bruyne's free-kick at the back post. Spurs' energies were spent after conceding as they failed to muster any response to try and take the game to extra-time. Mahrez had a second goal ruled out for offside in stoppage time. But one goal was enough to ensure City move level with Liverpool on a record eight League Cup triumphs, six of which have come in the last eight years.

Man City outclass Tottenham to retain League Cup in front of 8,000 fans

Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer were on Monday named as the first players inducted into the official Premier League Hall of Fame in recognition of a combined 435 goals and seven Golden Boot awards.

Arsenal's all-time top scorer Henry won two Premier League titles under Arsene Wenger and was part of the "Invincibles" team that went unbeaten throughout the 2003/04 title-winning campaign.

France's record goalscorer and 1998 World Cup winner scored more than 20 Premier League goals in five consecutive seasons between 2001/02 and 2005/06.

"To be inducted alongside Alan Shearer as the two first inductees into the Premier League Hall of Fame is more than special," said Henry.

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Two centre-forwards, both gifted with natural skill and talent who have written their names in Premier League history 
 
We’re delighted to announce Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry as the first two inductees of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PLHallOfFame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PLHallOfFame</a> <a href="https://t.co/MAKgi3SYzV">pic.twitter.com/MAKgi3SYzV</a>
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&nbsp;

“When I was young, I was just trying to make sure I could get a pair of boots and now we’re talking about the Hall of Fame."

Shearer, who won the title with Blackburn in 1995, is the Premier League's record goalscorer, netting 260 goals in 14 seasons for Blackburn and Newcastle.

“When you look at some of the unbelievable players to have graced the Premier League, week in, week out, year in, year out, I feel very honoured to join the Hall of Fame," said the former England captain.

“All I ever wanted to be was a professional footballer.

"It was my dream to do that, my dream to win trophies and my dream to score at St James's Park, to wear the number nine black-and-white shirt and it was fantastic. I enjoyed every minute of it."

The Premier League said the Hall of Fame "recognises and celebrates the exceptional skill and talent of individuals who have graced the Premier League since its inception in 1992".

"Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry are two world-class players who lit up the Premier League throughout their time in the competition," said Premier League chief executive Richard Masters.

"Both players were capable of scoring every kind of goal, including some of the best we have ever seen."

A shortlist of 23 additional nominees will be announced later on Monday, with fans invited to vote to help select the remaining six inductees to the 2021 Premier League Hall of Fame.

Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer were on Monday named as the first players inducted into the official Premier League Hall of Fame in recognition of a combined 435 goals and seven Golden Boot awards.

Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer were on Monday named as the first players inducted into the official Premier League Hall of Fame in recognition of a combined 435 goals and seven Golden Boot awards. Arsenal's all-time top scorer Henry won two Premier League titles under Arsene Wenger and was part of the "Invincibles" team that went unbeaten throughout the 2003/04 title-winning campaign. France's record goalscorer and 1998 World Cup winner scored more than 20 Premier League goals in five consecutive seasons between 2001/02 and 2005/06. "To be inducted alongside Alan Shearer as the two first inductees into the Premier League Hall of Fame is more than special," said Henry. Two centre-forwards, both gifted with natural skill and talent who have written their names in Premier League history We’re delighted to announce Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry as the first two inductees of the #PLHallOfFame pic.twitter.com/MAKgi3SYzV — Premier League (@premierleague) April 26, 2021 × “When I was young, I was just trying to make sure I could get a pair of boots and now we’re talking about the Hall of Fame." Shearer, who won the title with Blackburn in 1995, is the Premier League's record goalscorer, netting 260 goals in 14 seasons for Blackburn and Newcastle. “When you look at some of the unbelievable players to have graced the Premier League, week in, week out, year in, year out, I feel very honoured to join the Hall of Fame," said the former England captain. “All I ever wanted to be was a professional footballer. "It was my dream to do that, my dream to win trophies and my dream to score at St James's Park, to wear the number nine black-and-white shirt and it was fantastic. I enjoyed every minute of it." The Premier League said the Hall of Fame "recognises and celebrates the exceptional skill and talent of individuals who have graced the Premier League since its inception in 1992". "Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry are two world-class players who lit up the Premier League throughout their time in the competition," said Premier League chief executive Richard Masters. "Both players were capable of scoring every kind of goal, including some of the best we have ever seen." A shortlist of 23 additional nominees will be announced later on Monday, with fans invited to vote to help select the remaining six inductees to the 2021 Premier League Hall of Fame.

Henry and Shearer inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame

Chelsea took control of the battle to secure Champions League football next season as Timo Werner's goal earned a 1-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, while Liverpool conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to draw 1-1 with Newcastle.

After a week dominated by England's 'big six' aiming to guarantee top level European football every season via a breakaway Super League (ESL), Chelsea and Liverpool turned their attentions to trying to earn a top-four Premier League finish on the field.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham were the other four English clubs involved in proposals for the ESL, which collapsed within 48 hours of its launch after a furious backlash from governments, governing bodies, players and fans.

The Blues are now in pole position for fourth as just a second Premier League goal in 22 games for Werner opened up a three-point advantage over the fifth-placed Hammers.

Thomas Tuchel blamed the distraction of huge protests outside Stamford Bridge on the night the ESL proposals crumbled for a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday.

The German made six changes with one eye also on the first leg of his side's Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid on Tuesday.

However, Chelsea's superior strength in depth showed against an injury-hit West Ham without Michail Antonio, Declan Rice and Aaron Cresswell.

"We did not talk one word about Super League from Tuesday on," said Tuchel. "I felt everybody very concentrated and enjoying the focus on just the game."

The result could have been very different had Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta not escaped strong claims for handball inside his own area as he deflected a shot wide midway through the first half.

Werner has failed to live up to his £50 million ($69 million) price tag since joining from RB Leipzig last summer.

But the German ended his two-month goal drought with a composed finish from Ben Chilwell's cross two minutes before half-time.

After the break, though, Werner showed the profligacy in front of goal that has characterised his season as he somehow turned the rebound wide after Lukasz Fabianski parried Mason Mount's long-range effort.

The in-form Jesse Lingard came closest to an equaliser for the hosts as his looping effort drifted just wide.

But the Hammers' hopes were killed off 10 minutes from time when Fabian Balbuena was harshly sent off after a VAR review for his follow-through on Chilwell after clearing the ball.

"I thought it was a rubbish decision," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "I think it is a decision made by somebody who has never played the game."

<h2>- Liverpool don't 'deserve' Champions League -</h2>

Liverpool are now four points adrift of the top four after throwing away a late lead against Newcastle, leading manager Jurgen Klopp to say they do not deserve a place in the Champions League.

Mohamed Salah had opened the scoring after just three minutes, but Liverpool wasted a host of chances to extend their lead and paid in stoppage time.

The Reds even had a reprieve when Callum Wilson's equaliser was ruled out after a VAR review for handball, but still could not hold on as Joe Willock's deflected strike secured a vital point in the Magpies' bid for top-flight survival.

"If you deserve it, you deserve it," said Klopp, echoing the critics of the ESL as a closed shop for Europe's big clubs.

"I didn't see us today playing like we deserve Champions League next year. We have another five games and we will see. We learn or we don't play Champions League, that's it."

A draw extended Newcastle's cushion over the bottom three to nine points.

But Brighton did little to aid their battle to beat the drop as they lost 1-0 at already-relegated Sheffield United to remain seven points clear of Fulham in 18th.

A protest outside Anfield on Saturday was more muted than the ones ahead of Chelsea and Arsenal's home matches in recent days, but a number of flags and banners were attached to the gates around the ground calling out the "greed" of the club's American owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG).

Despite not being in action until Sunday away to Leeds, Manchester United fans also gathered outside Old Trafford on Saturday to take aim at the Glazer family, who own the Red Devils.

Chelsea took control of the battle to secure Champions League football next season as Timo Werner's goal earned a 1-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, while Liverpool conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to draw 1-1 with Newcastle.

Chelsea took control of the battle to secure Champions League football next season as Timo Werner's goal earned a 1-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, while Liverpool conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to draw 1-1 with Newcastle. After a week dominated by England's 'big six' aiming to guarantee top level European football every season via a breakaway Super League (ESL), Chelsea and Liverpool turned their attentions to trying to earn a top-four Premier League finish on the field. Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham were the other four English clubs involved in proposals for the ESL, which collapsed within 48 hours of its launch after a furious backlash from governments, governing bodies, players and fans. The Blues are now in pole position for fourth as just a second Premier League goal in 22 games for Werner opened up a three-point advantage over the fifth-placed Hammers. Thomas Tuchel blamed the distraction of huge protests outside Stamford Bridge on the night the ESL proposals crumbled for a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday. The German made six changes with one eye also on the first leg of his side's Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid on Tuesday. However, Chelsea's superior strength in depth showed against an injury-hit West Ham without Michail Antonio, Declan Rice and Aaron Cresswell. "We did not talk one word about Super League from Tuesday on," said Tuchel. "I felt everybody very concentrated and enjoying the focus on just the game." The result could have been very different had Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta not escaped strong claims for handball inside his own area as he deflected a shot wide midway through the first half. Werner has failed to live up to his £50 million ($69 million) price tag since joining from RB Leipzig last summer. But the German ended his two-month goal drought with a composed finish from Ben Chilwell's cross two minutes before half-time. After the break, though, Werner showed the profligacy in front of goal that has characterised his season as he somehow turned the rebound wide after Lukasz Fabianski parried Mason Mount's long-range effort. The in-form Jesse Lingard came closest to an equaliser for the hosts as his looping effort drifted just wide. But the Hammers' hopes were killed off 10 minutes from time when Fabian Balbuena was harshly sent off after a VAR review for his follow-through on Chilwell after clearing the ball. "I thought it was a rubbish decision," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "I think it is a decision made by somebody who has never played the game." - Liverpool don't 'deserve' Champions League - Liverpool are now four points adrift of the top four after throwing away a late lead against Newcastle, leading manager Jurgen Klopp to say they do not deserve a place in the Champions League. Mohamed Salah had opened the scoring after just three minutes, but Liverpool wasted a host of chances to extend their lead and paid in stoppage time. The Reds even had a reprieve when Callum Wilson's equaliser was ruled out after a VAR review for handball, but still could not hold on as Joe Willock's deflected strike secured a vital point in the Magpies' bid for top-flight survival. "If you deserve it, you deserve it," said Klopp, echoing the critics of the ESL as a closed shop for Europe's big clubs. "I didn't see us today playing like we deserve Champions League next year. We have another five games and we will see. We learn or we don't play Champions League, that's it." A draw extended Newcastle's cushion over the bottom three to nine points. But Brighton did little to aid their battle to beat the drop as they lost 1-0 at already-relegated Sheffield United to remain seven points clear of Fulham in 18th. A protest outside Anfield on Saturday was more muted than the ones ahead of Chelsea and Arsenal's home matches in recent days, but a number of flags and banners were attached to the gates around the ground calling out the "greed" of the club's American owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG). Despite not being in action until Sunday away to Leeds, Manchester United fans also gathered outside Old Trafford on Saturday to take aim at the Glazer family, who own the Red Devils.

Werner tightens Chelsea's grip on top four, Liverpool held by Newcastle

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through.&nbsp;

Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.&nbsp;

Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal.&nbsp;

Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season.&nbsp;

"It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday."

They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return.

Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday.

Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January.&nbsp;

"I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him."

After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal.&nbsp;

Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf.&nbsp;

Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened.&nbsp;

Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post.&nbsp;

Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left.&nbsp;

Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.&nbsp;

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea. Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through. Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal. Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season. "It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane. "We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday." They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return. Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday. Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January. "I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane. "He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him." After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal. Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf. Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened. Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post. Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left. Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.

Below-par Real Madrid held by Betis with Chelsea test to come

English football clubs will stage a three-day social media boycott next weekend as part of a protest against racism, several national governing bodies announced Saturday.

The blackout, encompassing England's governing Football Association, clubs in the Premier League, English Football League and Women's Super League, will begin at 1400 GMT on Friday, April 30 and run until 2259 GMT on Monday, May 3.

Referees and managers' organisations will also be involved.

A joint statement from the participating organisations said they would unite for a social media boycott "in response to the ongoing and sustained discriminatory abuse received online by players and many others connected to football".

It added: "This has been scheduled to take place across a full fixture programme in the men's and women's professional game and will see clubs across the Premier League, EFL, WSL and Women's Championship switch off their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

"As a collective, the game recognises the considerable reach and value of social media to our sport. The connectivity and access to supporters who are at the heart of football remains vital.

"However, the boycott shows English football coming together to emphasise that social media companies must do more to eradicate online hate, while highlighting the importance of educating people in the ongoing fight against discrimination."

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson recently said he would be prepared to follow Arsenal and France great Thierry Henry in abandoning all online activity as a protest against racist behaviour.

Swansea acted after Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe were all targeted, while England's Marcus Rashford, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Raheem Sterling are also among a long list of players to have been subjected to racist abuse.

Many have questioned whether in the long-term, football can really afford to cut itself off from the economic and fan-engagement benefits of social media.

And there are those who argue that ensuring all posters used their real identity would place political dissidents and corporate whistle-blowers at risk as much as it would make it easier to identify racist 'trolls'.

<h2>- 'Continued fight' -</h2>

But the organisers of this latest blackout said they nonetheless felt compelled to take a stand.

"Boycott action from football in isolation will, of course, not eradicate the scourge of online discriminatory abuse, but it will demonstrate that the game is willing to take voluntary and proactive steps in this continued fight," their statement said.

Back in February, eight members of the coalition wrote to Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey, the chief executives of Facebook and Twitter, saying their platforms and those of Instagram, owned by Facebook, should be doing more to clamp down on abuse.

Saturday's statement said "while some progress has been made, we reiterate those requests today in an effort to stem the relentless flow of discriminatory messages and ensure that there are real-life consequences for purveyors of online abuse across all platforms".

"While football takes a stand, we urge the UK Government to ensure its online safety bill will bring in strong legislation to make social media companies more accountable for what happens on their platforms."

In Scotland, Rangers staged a week-long boycott following a Europa League match against Slavia Prague where Glen Kamara was abused.

Slavia defender Ondrej Kudela has been banned for 10 matches by UEFA after being found guilty of racist behaviour towards Kamara.

English football clubs will stage a three-day social media boycott next weekend as part of a protest against racism, several national governing bodies announced Saturday.

English football clubs will stage a three-day social media boycott next weekend as part of a protest against racism, several national governing bodies announced Saturday. The blackout, encompassing England's governing Football Association, clubs in the Premier League, English Football League and Women's Super League, will begin at 1400 GMT on Friday, April 30 and run until 2259 GMT on Monday, May 3. Referees and managers' organisations will also be involved. A joint statement from the participating organisations said they would unite for a social media boycott "in response to the ongoing and sustained discriminatory abuse received online by players and many others connected to football". It added: "This has been scheduled to take place across a full fixture programme in the men's and women's professional game and will see clubs across the Premier League, EFL, WSL and Women's Championship switch off their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. "As a collective, the game recognises the considerable reach and value of social media to our sport. The connectivity and access to supporters who are at the heart of football remains vital. "However, the boycott shows English football coming together to emphasise that social media companies must do more to eradicate online hate, while highlighting the importance of educating people in the ongoing fight against discrimination." Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson recently said he would be prepared to follow Arsenal and France great Thierry Henry in abandoning all online activity as a protest against racist behaviour. Swansea acted after Yan Dhanda, Ben Cabango and Jamal Lowe were all targeted, while England's Marcus Rashford, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Raheem Sterling are also among a long list of players to have been subjected to racist abuse. Many have questioned whether in the long-term, football can really afford to cut itself off from the economic and fan-engagement benefits of social media. And there are those who argue that ensuring all posters used their real identity would place political dissidents and corporate whistle-blowers at risk as much as it would make it easier to identify racist 'trolls'. - 'Continued fight' - But the organisers of this latest blackout said they nonetheless felt compelled to take a stand. "Boycott action from football in isolation will, of course, not eradicate the scourge of online discriminatory abuse, but it will demonstrate that the game is willing to take voluntary and proactive steps in this continued fight," their statement said. Back in February, eight members of the coalition wrote to Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey, the chief executives of Facebook and Twitter, saying their platforms and those of Instagram, owned by Facebook, should be doing more to clamp down on abuse. Saturday's statement said "while some progress has been made, we reiterate those requests today in an effort to stem the relentless flow of discriminatory messages and ensure that there are real-life consequences for purveyors of online abuse across all platforms". "While football takes a stand, we urge the UK Government to ensure its online safety bill will bring in strong legislation to make social media companies more accountable for what happens on their platforms." In Scotland, Rangers staged a week-long boycott following a Europa League match against Slavia Prague where Glen Kamara was abused. Slavia defender Ondrej Kudela has been banned for 10 matches by UEFA after being found guilty of racist behaviour towards Kamara.

English football clubs to stage social media boycott in racism protest

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has refused to rule out a ban from next season's Champions League for all 12 clubs involved in trying to set up a breakaway European Super League.

But Ceferin also told Britain's Mail on Sunday that the six English clubs -- Chelsea, Manchester City,&nbsp;Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United -- deserve greater leniency as they were the first to back out.

He said their stance was in contrast to that of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus, ridiculed by Ceferin as "the ones who feel that Earth is flat and... think the Super League still exists."&nbsp;

In the space of 48 hours beginning last Sunday, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by English, Spanish and Italian clubs attempting to form a quasi-closed tournament designed to supplant the existing Champions League.

Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew.

But Ceferin, who thanked British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for his opposition to the Super League, said disciplinary action remained an option for UEFA, European football's governing body.

"Everyone has to take consequences for what they did and we cannot pretend nothing happened," he warned.

However, the Slovenian lawyer, elected UEFA president in 2016, added: "But for me it's a clear difference between the English clubs and the other six. They pulled out first, they admitted they made a mistake. You have to have some greatness to say: 'I was wrong.'"&nbsp;

"But everyone will be held responsible. In what way, we will see," he said.

The irony is that UEFA were on the brink of enacting changes that would have entrenched the position of many of the established Champions League powers behind the Super League.&nbsp;

But Ceferin said he was open to dropping the two extra Champions League spots in an expanded competition that were meant to be reserved for clubs based on their historic record.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has refused to rule out a ban from next season's Champions League for all 12 clubs involved in trying to set up a breakaway European Super League.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has refused to rule out a ban from next season's Champions League for all 12 clubs involved in trying to set up a breakaway European Super League. But Ceferin also told Britain's Mail on Sunday that the six English clubs -- Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United -- deserve greater leniency as they were the first to back out. He said their stance was in contrast to that of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus, ridiculed by Ceferin as "the ones who feel that Earth is flat and... think the Super League still exists." In the space of 48 hours beginning last Sunday, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by English, Spanish and Italian clubs attempting to form a quasi-closed tournament designed to supplant the existing Champions League. Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew. But Ceferin, who thanked British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for his opposition to the Super League, said disciplinary action remained an option for UEFA, European football's governing body. "Everyone has to take consequences for what they did and we cannot pretend nothing happened," he warned. However, the Slovenian lawyer, elected UEFA president in 2016, added: "But for me it's a clear difference between the English clubs and the other six. They pulled out first, they admitted they made a mistake. You have to have some greatness to say: 'I was wrong.'" "But everyone will be held responsible. In what way, we will see," he said. The irony is that UEFA were on the brink of enacting changes that would have entrenched the position of many of the established Champions League powers behind the Super League. But Ceferin said he was open to dropping the two extra Champions League spots in an expanded competition that were meant to be reserved for clubs based on their historic record.

Super League 'flat-earthers' in UEFA president's sights

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020.<o:p></o:p>

Giggs, who was the manager of the Wales national football team until Friday, is set to lose his job with the Football Association of Wales saying that it would replace him with Robert Page for the upcoming Euro 2020, set to be played later this year.<o:p></o:p>

In November 2020, Giggs missed a number of Wales match after allegations of assault but denied them at the time. <o:p></o:p>

Giggs is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28, the Crown Prosecution Service said in its statement.<o:p></o:p>

Giggs said he would plead not guilty to the charges against him.<o:p></o:p>

“I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations," Giggs said in a statement. “I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-drops-euro-hosts-dublin-bilbao-mulls-super-league-reprisals-379663" hreflang="en">UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals</a>

Whereas Greater Manchester Police, in a separate statement, said that both counts of assault relate to November 1, 2020 when police were dialed to reports of disturbance and a woman in her 30s was treated for injuries at the scene. <o:p></o:p>

The Football Association of Wales said it would convene a meeting to discuss the impact of the developments on the national team.<o:p></o:p>

“The FAW will not be making any further comment at this current time," it said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-spurs-clash-in-league-cup-final-after-super-league-debacle-379657" hreflang="en">Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle</a>

Giggs made 963 appearances over 23 years for Manchester United as a player, a club record, winning a haul of honours including 13 Premier League winner’s medals and two UEFA Champions League winner’s medals.<o:p></o:p>

He represented Wales as a player 64 times between 1991 and 2007 and took over as national coach in 2018.&nbsp;He is also co-owner of League Two side Salford City.

(With Reuters inputs)

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Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020.

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs has been charged with assault against two women, police and prosecutors said on Friday. Giggs has been charged with causing bodily harm to woman in her 30s and common assault of a woman in her 20s and as well as one count of controlling behavior between 2017 and 2020. Giggs, who was the manager of the Wales national football team until Friday, is set to lose his job with the Football Association of Wales saying that it would replace him with Robert Page for the upcoming Euro 2020, set to be played later this year. In November 2020, Giggs missed a number of Wales match after allegations of assault but denied them at the time. Giggs is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28, the Crown Prosecution Service said in its statement. Giggs said he would plead not guilty to the charges against him. “I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations," Giggs said in a statement. “I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name." ALSO READ: UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals Whereas Greater Manchester Police, in a separate statement, said that both counts of assault relate to November 1, 2020 when police were dialed to reports of disturbance and a woman in her 30s was treated for injuries at the scene. The Football Association of Wales said it would convene a meeting to discuss the impact of the developments on the national team. “The FAW will not be making any further comment at this current time," it said in a statement. ALSO READ: Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle Giggs made 963 appearances over 23 years for Manchester United as a player, a club record, winning a haul of honours including 13 Premier League winner’s medals and two UEFA Champions League winner’s medals. He represented Wales as a player 64 times between 1991 and 2007 and took over as national coach in 2018. He is also co-owner of League Two side Salford City. (With Reuters inputs) ×

Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs charged with assault against two women

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private.

"I am still a supporter of freedom of choice," Djokovic said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP tournament in Belgrade.

It was in the Serbian capital last summer where Djokovic, as well as a number of other players, tested positive for Covid-19 after organising a controversial exhibition event.

On whether or not he will be vaccinated to guarantee entry to tournaments, 33-year-old Djokovic refused to commit himself.

"I will keep my decision to myself, I think it's a private, intimate thing. I do not want to be labelled as someone who is for or against vaccination," added Djokovic who has expressed his reservations in the past.

"I hope it does not become compulsory."

On court, Djokovic stayed on course for a third Belgrade title with a comfortable 6-1, 6-3 quarter-final win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic.

Djokovic, the 2009 and 2011 champion at the event which is played at a venue which carries his name, will face Russia's Aslan Karatsev&nbsp;for a place in the final.

In their first meeting, Djokovic broke his 21-year-old opponent's first service game and repeated the feat for a 5-1 lead in the opener.

His only blip was when he was broken as he served for the match at 5-2 in the second set.

However, it was a brief respite for world number 47 Kecmanovic who handed back the break in the next game allowing the top seed to complete a 75-minute win.

"I think personally I'm feeling very well on court, moving well, hitting the ball well and, of course, enjoying the home court advantage," Djokovic said.&nbsp;

"So I'm really excited to go out in the semi-finals on the court again tomorrow."

Djokovic, who captured an 18th Grand Slam title in Australia in February, opened his clay court campaign in Monaco last week where he suffered a surprise last-16 loss to Britain's Dan Evans.

On Saturday, he will face Russian third seed Karatsev who put out Gianluca Mager of Italy 6-3, 6-4.

Djokovic ended Karatsev's stunning run at the Australian Open in the semi-finals in February where the Russian, then ranked at 114, came through qualifying.

Japan's world number 126 Taro Daniel also booked a last-four place on Friday by beating Argentina's Federico Delbonis 4-6, 6-1, 7-5.

Daniel is the first lucky loser to reach an ATP semi-final this year.

On Saturday, he tackles 10th-ranked Matteo Berrettini, the Italian second seed who knocked out Serb fifth seed Filip Krajinovic 6-4, 6-4.

Daniel has never beaten a top-10 player in four previous attempts.

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private.

World number one Novak Djokovic said Friday he hoped it would not become compulsory for players to be vaccinated against coronavirus and insisted any decision he makes on whether or not to take the vaccine will remain private. "I am still a supporter of freedom of choice," Djokovic said after reaching the semi-finals of the ATP tournament in Belgrade. It was in the Serbian capital last summer where Djokovic, as well as a number of other players, tested positive for Covid-19 after organising a controversial exhibition event. On whether or not he will be vaccinated to guarantee entry to tournaments, 33-year-old Djokovic refused to commit himself. "I will keep my decision to myself, I think it's a private, intimate thing. I do not want to be labelled as someone who is for or against vaccination," added Djokovic who has expressed his reservations in the past. "I hope it does not become compulsory." On court, Djokovic stayed on course for a third Belgrade title with a comfortable 6-1, 6-3 quarter-final win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic. Djokovic, the 2009 and 2011 champion at the event which is played at a venue which carries his name, will face Russia's Aslan Karatsev for a place in the final. In their first meeting, Djokovic broke his 21-year-old opponent's first service game and repeated the feat for a 5-1 lead in the opener. His only blip was when he was broken as he served for the match at 5-2 in the second set. However, it was a brief respite for world number 47 Kecmanovic who handed back the break in the next game allowing the top seed to complete a 75-minute win. "I think personally I'm feeling very well on court, moving well, hitting the ball well and, of course, enjoying the home court advantage," Djokovic said. "So I'm really excited to go out in the semi-finals on the court again tomorrow." Djokovic, who captured an 18th Grand Slam title in Australia in February, opened his clay court campaign in Monaco last week where he suffered a surprise last-16 loss to Britain's Dan Evans. On Saturday, he will face Russian third seed Karatsev who put out Gianluca Mager of Italy 6-3, 6-4. Djokovic ended Karatsev's stunning run at the Australian Open in the semi-finals in February where the Russian, then ranked at 114, came through qualifying. Japan's world number 126 Taro Daniel also booked a last-four place on Friday by beating Argentina's Federico Delbonis 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. Daniel is the first lucky loser to reach an ATP semi-final this year. On Saturday, he tackles 10th-ranked Matteo Berrettini, the Italian second seed who knocked out Serb fifth seed Filip Krajinovic 6-4, 6-4. Daniel has never beaten a top-10 player in four previous attempts.

Djokovic hopes COVID-19 vaccination will not be compulsory

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project.

The four matches destined for Dublin will now be held in St Petersburg and London while Seville steps in to replace Bilbao, UEFA announced.

Munich was confirmed as a venue at the eleventh hour, the German city joining Budapest, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen and Rome.

Held over from 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Championship will now be held in 11 different countries from June 11-July 11.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin welcomed being able to "guarantee a safe and festive environment" with fans "at every match".

Dublin and Bilbao lost out after the Irish government and Basque region officials were unable to assure UEFA of fans despite the pandemic.

"We just think June is too soon," Irish Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said on Wednesday.

Dublin's three group matches go to St Petersburg, with Wembley the new venue for its round of 16 game.

Seville gets Bilbao's three matches and round of 16 tie after its regional authority pledged the Estadio La Cartuja could be filled to 30 percent capacity.

UEFA said it had forced the switch "simply to allow fans to attend the games after a year of not being able to watch live football in stadiums".

Budapest, St Petersburg, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome and London had all promised crowds at between 25 percent and 100 percent of capacity in the run up to UEFA's deadline this month.

Munich, venue for world champions France against Germany on June 15, got the go-ahead for their four matches after confirmation from local authorities they would be able "to welcome a minimum of 14,500 spectators", UEFA's statement confirmed.

However, Munich mayor Dieter Reiter said: "There have been no promises of any kind to guarantee spectators."

While there will be disappointment in Dublin and Bilbao for missing out, UEFA expressed its "appreciation and gratitude" to the two cities, saying "both are considered as good venues to host future UEFA events".

"While today is a disappointing day for football fans in the city and country, public safety must always come first," said Owen Keegan, chief executive of Dublin City Council.

One man who will definitely miss the Euros is Wales manager Ryan Giggs who faces a court appearance after being charged with assaulting two women.

The Football Association of Wales said caretaker boss Robert Page, who has overseen matches since November, would remain in charge for Euro 2020.

<h2>- Super League 'options' -</h2>

Also on UEFA's agenda at Friday's virtual meeting was the matter of punishment, if any, for the so-called 'dirty dozen' architects of the doomed Super League designed to supplant the Champions League.

European football's governing body said it had examined its "options" without announcing any sanctions.

"The UEFA executive committee has been informed of the latest developments in relation to the 'Super League', in particular regarding the options available to UEFA and the measures it plans to take," said UEFA.

In the space of 48 hours this week beginning on Sunday evening, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by the English, Spanish and Italian clubs who presumed to form their own quasi-closed tournament.

Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew and even if Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez led the attempted secession, are still refusing formally to capitulate, their proposal no longer appears credible.&nbsp;

US investment bank JPMorgan, which agreed to financially back the breakaway Super League, said Friday it had "clearly misjudged" the failed project's impact.

Among the many punishments being considered by UEFA would have been the possible exclusion of Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid, all of whom signed up for the Super League, from the Champions League semi-finals which begin next week.

Such a drastic measure appeared to have been ruled out by Ceferin who told Slovenian television Pop TV on Wednesday: "There is relatively little chance that next week's matches will not be played... If we cancelled the matches, television stations would have compensation demands."

It remains to be seen what the "consequences" promised Wednesday by Ceferin to the dissident clubs and their leaders will look like, the UEFA boss not having specified whether they would be judicial, disciplinary or sporting.&nbsp;

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project.

UEFA on Friday dropped Dublin and Bilbao as Euro 2020 hosts over a failure to guarantee fans' attendance and held fire over any reprisals it might mete out to the 12 clubs involved in the failed Super League project. The four matches destined for Dublin will now be held in St Petersburg and London while Seville steps in to replace Bilbao, UEFA announced. Munich was confirmed as a venue at the eleventh hour, the German city joining Budapest, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen and Rome. Held over from 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Championship will now be held in 11 different countries from June 11-July 11. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin welcomed being able to "guarantee a safe and festive environment" with fans "at every match". Dublin and Bilbao lost out after the Irish government and Basque region officials were unable to assure UEFA of fans despite the pandemic. "We just think June is too soon," Irish Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar had said on Wednesday. Dublin's three group matches go to St Petersburg, with Wembley the new venue for its round of 16 game. Seville gets Bilbao's three matches and round of 16 tie after its regional authority pledged the Estadio La Cartuja could be filled to 30 percent capacity. UEFA said it had forced the switch "simply to allow fans to attend the games after a year of not being able to watch live football in stadiums". Budapest, St Petersburg, Baku, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Glasgow, Copenhagen, Rome and London had all promised crowds at between 25 percent and 100 percent of capacity in the run up to UEFA's deadline this month. Munich, venue for world champions France against Germany on June 15, got the go-ahead for their four matches after confirmation from local authorities they would be able "to welcome a minimum of 14,500 spectators", UEFA's statement confirmed. However, Munich mayor Dieter Reiter said: "There have been no promises of any kind to guarantee spectators." While there will be disappointment in Dublin and Bilbao for missing out, UEFA expressed its "appreciation and gratitude" to the two cities, saying "both are considered as good venues to host future UEFA events". "While today is a disappointing day for football fans in the city and country, public safety must always come first," said Owen Keegan, chief executive of Dublin City Council. One man who will definitely miss the Euros is Wales manager Ryan Giggs who faces a court appearance after being charged with assaulting two women. The Football Association of Wales said caretaker boss Robert Page, who has overseen matches since November, would remain in charge for Euro 2020. - Super League 'options' - Also on UEFA's agenda at Friday's virtual meeting was the matter of punishment, if any, for the so-called 'dirty dozen' architects of the doomed Super League designed to supplant the Champions League. European football's governing body said it had examined its "options" without announcing any sanctions. "The UEFA executive committee has been informed of the latest developments in relation to the 'Super League', in particular regarding the options available to UEFA and the measures it plans to take," said UEFA. In the space of 48 hours this week beginning on Sunday evening, UEFA, aided by fans and politicians, quelled a mutiny by the English, Spanish and Italian clubs who presumed to form their own quasi-closed tournament. Nine clubs, including all six in England, subsequently withdrew and even if Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez led the attempted secession, are still refusing formally to capitulate, their proposal no longer appears credible. US investment bank JPMorgan, which agreed to financially back the breakaway Super League, said Friday it had "clearly misjudged" the failed project's impact. Among the many punishments being considered by UEFA would have been the possible exclusion of Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid, all of whom signed up for the Super League, from the Champions League semi-finals which begin next week. Such a drastic measure appeared to have been ruled out by Ceferin who told Slovenian television Pop TV on Wednesday: "There is relatively little chance that next week's matches will not be played... If we cancelled the matches, television stations would have compensation demands." It remains to be seen what the "consequences" promised Wednesday by Ceferin to the dissident clubs and their leaders will look like, the UEFA boss not having specified whether they would be judicial, disciplinary or sporting.

UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga.&nbsp;

A large group of furious supporters pelted the team bus with eggs and confronted players on their return to Gelsenkirchen early Wednesday after defeat at Bielefeld saw Schalke relegated after 30 years in Germany's top flight.

The team has won just two of their 30 games this season.

Some players were reportedly followed to their homes and threatened in the wake of Tuesday's loss - their 21st league defeat of 2020/21.

At least one player's car is said to have been badly damaged before police intervened.

Schalke have no game this weekend, but sports director Peter Knaebel has asked for police help when training resumes Monday.

In a statement Friday, Schalke said they have "already initiated measures to ensure the safety and security of the players and staff".

Knaebel also told Bild that he "can live with it" if any player refuses to play their last four remaining games.

The Schalke boss blames himself for not taking steps to protect the team on their return from Bielefeld.

"People were in danger, things got damaged. We were lucky that nothing worse happened to our people," Knaebel told German daily Bild.

"I apologise to the players and staff."

In a statement, the club said it will not tolerate instances where the "health and safety of its employees are threatened or endangered."

"A line was crossed on Wednesday morning, and these events have deeply shaken the club.

"Violence is never justified, neither in sport, nor in society."&nbsp;

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga.

Schalke 04 said Friday they have asked for police protection at training next week after angry fans attacked the team bus following the club's relegation from the Bundesliga. A large group of furious supporters pelted the team bus with eggs and confronted players on their return to Gelsenkirchen early Wednesday after defeat at Bielefeld saw Schalke relegated after 30 years in Germany's top flight. The team has won just two of their 30 games this season. Some players were reportedly followed to their homes and threatened in the wake of Tuesday's loss - their 21st league defeat of 2020/21. At least one player's car is said to have been badly damaged before police intervened. Schalke have no game this weekend, but sports director Peter Knaebel has asked for police help when training resumes Monday. In a statement Friday, Schalke said they have "already initiated measures to ensure the safety and security of the players and staff". Knaebel also told Bild that he "can live with it" if any player refuses to play their last four remaining games. The Schalke boss blames himself for not taking steps to protect the team on their return from Bielefeld. "People were in danger, things got damaged. We were lucky that nothing worse happened to our people," Knaebel told German daily Bild. "I apologise to the players and staff." In a statement, the club said it will not tolerate instances where the "health and safety of its employees are threatened or endangered." "A line was crossed on Wednesday morning, and these events have deeply shaken the club. "Violence is never justified, neither in sport, nor in society."

Relegated Schalke seek police protection from angry fans

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games.

German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory.

Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project.

The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996.

Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four.

"It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC.

"The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back."

The game produced few chances.

Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar.

Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up.

"The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

"I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium. With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games. German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory. Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project. The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996. Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four. "It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC. "The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back." The game produced few chances. Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar. Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up. "The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. "I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

Everton victory compounds Arsenal misery as fans protest

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday.

Just seven days after the bombshell revelation that City and Tottenham were among 12 clubs plotting the breakaway Super League, they will contest the first major silverware of the English season.

Alarmed by the furious public backlash against the Super League, City's Abu Dhabi-based owners were the first to lose their nerve when they pulled out on Tuesday.

City's exit sparked a chain reaction that saw Tottenham withdraw along with fellow Premier League teams Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal.

The tournament was dead in the water only 48 hours after its launch.

But amid grovelling apologies from owners, supporters remain furious at the cynical betrayal and there have been calls for sanctions against the six Premier League teams.

Against that explosive backdrop, it is ironic the League Cup will be the focus of attention for two of the Super League founders this weekend.

If the competition -- effectively a closed-shop replacement for the Champions League -- had gone ahead, it was said the increased midweek fixture list could have killed off the League Cup.

Given both clubs would gladly have turned their backs on the League Cup forever, it would be no surprise if there are protesters and dissenting voices among the 8,000 fans allowed into Wembley this weekend.

But for City manager Pep Guardiola and Tottenham caretaker boss Ryan Mason the goal in the build-up to the final has been keeping their players focused on the pitch rather than letting the Super League furore distract them.

After beating Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday, City need eight points from their last five league games to win the English title for a third time in four seasons.

On Wednesday, they take on&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-final first leg.

"We deserve to be there. The final every team wants to win and we will travel to London to do a good game and win the title," Guardiola said.

"The Aston Villa game showed we were ready and we'll be ready on Sunday."

<h2>- Wounded Spurs -</h2>

There was good news for Guardiola on Friday when Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, injured in last weekend's quadruple-ending FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea, and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, sidelined by a muscle problem, were both declared fit after returning to training.

Tottenham arrive at Wembley wounded by a week that saw Jose Mourinho sacked on Monday, just days after Harry Kane suffered the latest in a long line of ankle injures.

Kane missed Tottenham's 2-1 win over Southampton in the first match of the post-Mourinho era on Wednesday and is not certain to return after failing to train on Friday.

Mourinho's dismissal was triggered by his failure to mount a top-four challenge, while his strained relations with several senior players including Gareth Bale proved debilitating.

"Maybe just to be on the front foot a bit more," Bale said pointedly when asked what might change after Mourinho's exit.

"We want to attack. We're a big team with big players."

At just 29, Mason's unexpected promotion from his role in Tottenham's youth academy makes him the youngest manager in Premier League history.

The former Tottenham midfielder only went into coaching after his playing career was prematurely ended when he suffered a fractured skull playing for Hull in 2017.

Now Mason has a chance to lead the club he supported as a boy to their first trophy since the 2008 League Cup.

At a time when a cabal of greedy owners risked alienating their core audience with the cold-hearted Super League plan, the sight of Mason with his hands on the League Cup trophy would reinforce football's redemptive powers.

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday.

Treble-chasing Manchester City face a Tottenham side desperate to end their trophy drought in the League Cup final as two members of the failed European Super League clash at Wembley on Sunday. Just seven days after the bombshell revelation that City and Tottenham were among 12 clubs plotting the breakaway Super League, they will contest the first major silverware of the English season. Alarmed by the furious public backlash against the Super League, City's Abu Dhabi-based owners were the first to lose their nerve when they pulled out on Tuesday. City's exit sparked a chain reaction that saw Tottenham withdraw along with fellow Premier League teams Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal. The tournament was dead in the water only 48 hours after its launch. But amid grovelling apologies from owners, supporters remain furious at the cynical betrayal and there have been calls for sanctions against the six Premier League teams. Against that explosive backdrop, it is ironic the League Cup will be the focus of attention for two of the Super League founders this weekend. If the competition -- effectively a closed-shop replacement for the Champions League -- had gone ahead, it was said the increased midweek fixture list could have killed off the League Cup. Given both clubs would gladly have turned their backs on the League Cup forever, it would be no surprise if there are protesters and dissenting voices among the 8,000 fans allowed into Wembley this weekend. But for City manager Pep Guardiola and Tottenham caretaker boss Ryan Mason the goal in the build-up to the final has been keeping their players focused on the pitch rather than letting the Super League furore distract them. After beating Aston Villa 2-1 on Wednesday, City need eight points from their last five league games to win the English title for a third time in four seasons. On Wednesday, they take on Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-final first leg. "We deserve to be there. The final every team wants to win and we will travel to London to do a good game and win the title," Guardiola said. "The Aston Villa game showed we were ready and we'll be ready on Sunday." - Wounded Spurs - There was good news for Guardiola on Friday when Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, injured in last weekend's quadruple-ending FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea, and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero, sidelined by a muscle problem, were both declared fit after returning to training. Tottenham arrive at Wembley wounded by a week that saw Jose Mourinho sacked on Monday, just days after Harry Kane suffered the latest in a long line of ankle injures. Kane missed Tottenham's 2-1 win over Southampton in the first match of the post-Mourinho era on Wednesday and is not certain to return after failing to train on Friday. Mourinho's dismissal was triggered by his failure to mount a top-four challenge, while his strained relations with several senior players including Gareth Bale proved debilitating. "Maybe just to be on the front foot a bit more," Bale said pointedly when asked what might change after Mourinho's exit. "We want to attack. We're a big team with big players." At just 29, Mason's unexpected promotion from his role in Tottenham's youth academy makes him the youngest manager in Premier League history. The former Tottenham midfielder only went into coaching after his playing career was prematurely ended when he suffered a fractured skull playing for Hull in 2017. Now Mason has a chance to lead the club he supported as a boy to their first trophy since the 2008 League Cup. At a time when a cabal of greedy owners risked alienating their core audience with the cold-hearted Super League plan, the sight of Mason with his hands on the League Cup trophy would reinforce football's redemptive powers.

Man City, Spurs clash in League Cup final after Super League debacle

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football.

The 12 elite European clubs pushing the much-vilified concept fell afoul of an arrogant failure to consult and their "mad idea" of making it a US-style closed league without demotion, the British academic told AFP in an interview.

But UEFA, the governing body of football in Europe, must still reckon with pressure to see the continent's greatest clubs play each other more regularly and help deal with the financial mess caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Szymanski, who teaches sports management at the University of Michigan, has been publishing research into the economics of football for decades, including in the best-selling book "Soccernomics" (2009), co-authored with journalist Simon Kuper.

Szymanski believes that some ideas informing the British review -- such as the German model of fan ownership at clubs -- are a legal and business minefield, and that mandating fan representation on club boards is a more likely route in future.

"(Prime Minister) Boris Johnson is an unmitigated populist, so he's going to go with whatever he thinks is going to buy him popularity. And it just might be that instituting something like that (the German model) might be a good idea," he said.&nbsp;

<h2>- Backlash from fans -</h2>

But any talk of driving out the mostly foreign tycoons who run England's top six clubs risks capital flight, and longer-term consequences for which politicians are ill-prepared, according to Szymanski.&nbsp;

"If I was advising Johnson, one thing I'd say is 'You know what? You buy yourself a lot of short-term popularity by using the law to mandate the German system, but also remember, the next time something goes wrong, it's all on you'.

"Because you have taken over football, you've said that you're in charge, so if there's any problem in the future, people are going to look for you to sort it out."

The Super League proposals involving Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham were the catalyst for the government finally launching its much-delayed review.

The breakaway European Super League plan, which also involved six top clubs from Italy and Spain, collapsed this week after a furious backlash from fans.

The UK government will examine wider questions about the way the sport is run, looking at examples such as the collapse of lower-league Bury, which went into administration last year.

<h2>- Fit and proper? -</h2>

The review will consider creating a new independent regulator for football, and changing the "fit and proper person test" for owners, which came back into contention last year when a Saudi-backed consortium tried to buy Newcastle United.

More widely, UEFA has confirmed the Champions League will be expanded from 2024, but the controversy unleashed by this week's abortive breakaway leaves the 12 clubs grappling with an unprecedented united front from fans and demands for reprisals.

Szymanski said the business case for a revamped European competition is strong, given the continent's biggest clubs are already global brands but are struggling to recover from the pandemic and recoup a greater share of broadcast revenues.

"If they had just said that access to this league would be on something similar to the basis of access to the Champions League, there is nothing anybody could have done about it," said&nbsp;Szymanski.

"And actually it probably wouldn't have been a bad thing... there is pent-up demand to see the best players play against each other."

The proposed league had brought out "a lot of anti-Americanism", Szymanski said, with fans fearful of a radical overhaul of the pyramid system of promotion and relegation that underpins football in Europe.

"Now, whereas when you talk about creating more games among the big clubs in Europe, that's not really about the system, that's just about sport, and therefore I think the commercial logic of creating more of these games is not going to go away."

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football.

"Soccernomics" economist Stefan Szymanski says the "pent-up demand" underpinning the concept of a European Super League will not disappear, despite the launch in Britain of a wholesale review into the running of English football. The 12 elite European clubs pushing the much-vilified concept fell afoul of an arrogant failure to consult and their "mad idea" of making it a US-style closed league without demotion, the British academic told AFP in an interview. But UEFA, the governing body of football in Europe, must still reckon with pressure to see the continent's greatest clubs play each other more regularly and help deal with the financial mess caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Szymanski, who teaches sports management at the University of Michigan, has been publishing research into the economics of football for decades, including in the best-selling book "Soccernomics" (2009), co-authored with journalist Simon Kuper. Szymanski believes that some ideas informing the British review -- such as the German model of fan ownership at clubs -- are a legal and business minefield, and that mandating fan representation on club boards is a more likely route in future. "(Prime Minister) Boris Johnson is an unmitigated populist, so he's going to go with whatever he thinks is going to buy him popularity. And it just might be that instituting something like that (the German model) might be a good idea," he said. - Backlash from fans - But any talk of driving out the mostly foreign tycoons who run England's top six clubs risks capital flight, and longer-term consequences for which politicians are ill-prepared, according to Szymanski. "If I was advising Johnson, one thing I'd say is 'You know what? You buy yourself a lot of short-term popularity by using the law to mandate the German system, but also remember, the next time something goes wrong, it's all on you'. "Because you have taken over football, you've said that you're in charge, so if there's any problem in the future, people are going to look for you to sort it out." The Super League proposals involving Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham were the catalyst for the government finally launching its much-delayed review. The breakaway European Super League plan, which also involved six top clubs from Italy and Spain, collapsed this week after a furious backlash from fans. The UK government will examine wider questions about the way the sport is run, looking at examples such as the collapse of lower-league Bury, which went into administration last year. - Fit and proper? - The review will consider creating a new independent regulator for football, and changing the "fit and proper person test" for owners, which came back into contention last year when a Saudi-backed consortium tried to buy Newcastle United. More widely, UEFA has confirmed the Champions League will be expanded from 2024, but the controversy unleashed by this week's abortive breakaway leaves the 12 clubs grappling with an unprecedented united front from fans and demands for reprisals. Szymanski said the business case for a revamped European competition is strong, given the continent's biggest clubs are already global brands but are struggling to recover from the pandemic and recoup a greater share of broadcast revenues. "If they had just said that access to this league would be on something similar to the basis of access to the Champions League, there is nothing anybody could have done about it," said Szymanski. "And actually it probably wouldn't have been a bad thing... there is pent-up demand to see the best players play against each other." The proposed league had brought out "a lot of anti-Americanism", Szymanski said, with fans fearful of a radical overhaul of the pyramid system of promotion and relegation that underpins football in Europe. "Now, whereas when you talk about creating more games among the big clubs in Europe, that's not really about the system, that's just about sport, and therefore I think the commercial logic of creating more of these games is not going to go away."

Commercial logic remains for new European league: 'Soccernomics' author

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely. With RR struggling to win in the T20 tournament, Samson has looked completely out of form with the bat.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir has expressed his frustration on Samson’s inconsistency as he said that the batsman “starts like a million-dollar baby” but slides down rapidly.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, Gambhir has been one of the biggest admirers of Samson and has publicly backed him to perform well in the biggest of stages. However, Samson’s lack of consistency has left Gambhir irked.<o:p></o:p>

“Sanju Samson starts like a million-dollar baby, who looks like he’s going to take the IPL on fire by scoring 800-900 runs but then suddenly he starts going down rapidly,” Gambhir told ESPNcricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

Samson started IPL 2021 with a 119-run knock against PBKS but has faltered off with 4, 1 and 21 in the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

“He needs to contribute. I’ve spoken earlier as well that the graph can’t be so up and down. There needs to be some balance maintained. You’ve scored a hundred, but you still have to keep contributing. Look at AB de Villiers, look at Virat Kohli. They’ll get a hundred and then they’ll get a 40.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kieron-pollard-leaves-crease-before-ball-being-bowled-sparks-debate-379821" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate</a>

“If you see Sanju Samson. There is a hundred and then nothing. He’ll probably get another hundred but that is not how quality or world-class players do. I’m not saying he’s gonna get a 100 every second game but you need contributions. He needs to be tighter. I want to see that responsibility taken by him,” Gambhir added.<o:p></o:p>

While Rajasthan Royals missing the likes of Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes and Liam Livingstone has come as a huge blow to Samson and his team but Gambhir is of the view that it is the perfect opportunity for the Kerala batsman to mature and shine with the willow.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a>

“In the absence of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, it’s a golden opportunity for him to get mature. He’s at that stage of his career where it could go either way. He’s not a permanent member of the Indian side. He has been given the responsibility to lead RR so it either matures him or he goes the other way,” Gambhir said.<o:p></o:p>

RR take on KKR at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely.

Sanju Samson started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a breathtaking century against Punjab Kings but the form of Rajasthan Royals captain has since fizzled off completely. With RR struggling to win in the T20 tournament, Samson has looked completely out of form with the bat. Former Indian cricketer-turned-politician, Gautam Gambhir has expressed his frustration on Samson’s inconsistency as he said that the batsman “starts like a million-dollar baby” but slides down rapidly. Notably, Gambhir has been one of the biggest admirers of Samson and has publicly backed him to perform well in the biggest of stages. However, Samson’s lack of consistency has left Gambhir irked. “Sanju Samson starts like a million-dollar baby, who looks like he’s going to take the IPL on fire by scoring 800-900 runs but then suddenly he starts going down rapidly,” Gambhir told ESPNcricinfo. Samson started IPL 2021 with a 119-run knock against PBKS but has faltered off with 4, 1 and 21 in the tournament. “He needs to contribute. I’ve spoken earlier as well that the graph can’t be so up and down. There needs to be some balance maintained. You’ve scored a hundred, but you still have to keep contributing. Look at AB de Villiers, look at Virat Kohli. They’ll get a hundred and then they’ll get a 40. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Kieron Pollard leaves crease before ball being bowled; sparks debate “If you see Sanju Samson. There is a hundred and then nothing. He’ll probably get another hundred but that is not how quality or world-class players do. I’m not saying he’s gonna get a 100 every second game but you need contributions. He needs to be tighter. I want to see that responsibility taken by him,” Gambhir added. While Rajasthan Royals missing the likes of Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes and Liam Livingstone has come as a huge blow to Samson and his team but Gambhir is of the view that it is the perfect opportunity for the Kerala batsman to mature and shine with the willow. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far “In the absence of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, it’s a golden opportunity for him to get mature. He’s at that stage of his career where it could go either way. He’s not a permanent member of the Indian side. He has been given the responsibility to lead RR so it either matures him or he goes the other way,” Gambhir said. RR take on KKR at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday.

'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated

Mumbai City FC on Saturday&nbsp;announced&nbsp;that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025. 
 
After a breakthrough campaign with the Islanders, the 23-year-old winger-turned-full back has been seen as one of the most promising Indian talents to emerge from Sergio Lobera's Mumbai City FC.&nbsp;Vignesh, who was one of the key figures in the Islanders’ defence, helped Mumbai City FC win the double, clinching the League Winners Shield and the club’s maiden ISL title. 
 
Having featured at the U-23 level for India as an Islander, Vignesh turned out for the reigning ISL champions on 22 occasions in the 2020-21 campaign and scored an outstanding goal against Hyderabad FC, his first for the club. Having committed his future to Mumbai City FC, Vignesh is expected to be a key part of the Islanders’ ISL title defence as well as the club’s maiden AFC Champions League campaign in 2021-22.

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&nbsp; 
Vignesh Dakshinamurthy said:&nbsp;“It’s a great moment for me and my family. I’ve been at Mumbai City FC for three years now and it’s a special feeling committing my next few years to a club that has shown faith and supported me throughout. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I could be a part of a historic season, winning our first trophies for Mumbai City. The vision of the club, the head coach Sergio Lobera and the determination of our group, despite the tough circumstances we’re currently living in, is the reason why we won and why we are a big family.” 
&nbsp; 
“Like I said before, working with a guiding force like Sergio Lobera has been a gift for me. The coach trusted me and my abilities, sometimes more than I did myself, and that’s why I could give my best. I want to continue to give my best to this club and it’s fans and I look forward to sharing more incredible success with the Islanders’ family for a long time to come.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-drops-euro-hosts-dublin-bilbao-mulls-super-league-reprisals-379663" hreflang="en">UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals</a> 
&nbsp; 
Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said:&nbsp;“Vignesh is a young, hardworking boy, and an excellent professional who is eager to improve each and every day. He showed tremendous character throughout the season and he was ready to step in whenever the team needed him. I strongly believe that Vignesh has a bright future ahead of him and I am happy that he will be with us at Mumbai City for the foreseeable future.”

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Mumbai City FC on Saturday announced that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025.

Mumbai City FC on Saturday announced that Vignesh Dakshinamurthy has agreed to a fresh four-year contract extension that will keep him at the club until May 2025. After a breakthrough campaign with the Islanders, the 23-year-old winger-turned-full back has been seen as one of the most promising Indian talents to emerge from Sergio Lobera's Mumbai City FC. Vignesh, who was one of the key figures in the Islanders’ defence, helped Mumbai City FC win the double, clinching the League Winners Shield and the club’s maiden ISL title. Having featured at the U-23 level for India as an Islander, Vignesh turned out for the reigning ISL champions on 22 occasions in the 2020-21 campaign and scored an outstanding goal against Hyderabad FC, his first for the club. Having committed his future to Mumbai City FC, Vignesh is expected to be a key part of the Islanders’ ISL title defence as well as the club’s maiden AFC Champions League campaign in 2021-22. ALSO READ: Former Manchester United superstar Ryan Giggs charged with assault against two women Vignesh Dakshinamurthy said: “It’s a great moment for me and my family. I’ve been at Mumbai City FC for three years now and it’s a special feeling committing my next few years to a club that has shown faith and supported me throughout. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I could be a part of a historic season, winning our first trophies for Mumbai City. The vision of the club, the head coach Sergio Lobera and the determination of our group, despite the tough circumstances we’re currently living in, is the reason why we won and why we are a big family.” “Like I said before, working with a guiding force like Sergio Lobera has been a gift for me. The coach trusted me and my abilities, sometimes more than I did myself, and that’s why I could give my best. I want to continue to give my best to this club and it’s fans and I look forward to sharing more incredible success with the Islanders’ family for a long time to come.” ALSO READ: UEFA drops Euro hosts Dublin, Bilbao, mulls Super League reprisals Head Coach, Sergio Lobera said: “Vignesh is a young, hardworking boy, and an excellent professional who is eager to improve each and every day. He showed tremendous character throughout the season and he was ready to step in whenever the team needed him. I strongly believe that Vignesh has a bright future ahead of him and I am happy that he will be with us at Mumbai City for the foreseeable future.” ×

ISL: Mumbai City FC agree contract extension with Vignesh until 2025

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs.

"Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement.

The ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members.

Reaction to the Super League has been scathing, with politicians and football authorities threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions.

Only Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus are still involved in the project.

Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City had already announced they will not take part in the league.

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs. "Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement.

The European Super League said early Wednesday it would consider ways to reshape the group following the departure of all six English clubs. "Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," the League said in a statement. The ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members. Reaction to the Super League has been scathing, with politicians and football authorities threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions. Only Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus are still involved in the project. Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City had already announced they will not take part in the league.

European Super League will 'reshape' after clubs withdraw: statement

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League.

Just before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was widely reported that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had decided to withdraw from the controversial breakaway plan.

While there was no official confirmation from the club, the Blues are understood to be preparing documents to formally quit the tournament.

Manchester City became the first team to officially pull out, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham also confirming their exits.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the only remaining members of a Super League that crumbled before a match was ever played.

Against that dramatic backdrop, Chelsea produced a flat performance, although the draw saw Thomas Tuchel's side move into fourth place above West Ham on goal difference.

"We talk of nothing else but Super League before the match. I was affected so I think the players were affected," Tuchel said.&nbsp;

"The situation was not clear. I was informed like you were informed. You have to accept the distraction.

"We tried to create an atmosphere to win the game but could not. We looked mentally tired."

Chelsea visit West Ham on Saturday in a crucial clash in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Just hours before kick-off, it seems Chelsea would not have to worry about qualifying for Europe thanks to their invitation to the closed-door Super League.

But after resounding condemnation from across the political and sporting spectrum, Chelsea are set to walk away.

Abramovich and chairman Bruce Buck reportedly feared staying in the Super League would seriously damage Chelsea's reputation, therefore undermining their anti-semitism campaigning and community work.

While Stamford Bridge remained empty due to the coronavirus pandemic, around 1,000 fans had staged an angry protest before news of the Super League meltdown broke.

The cheers when Chelsea's imminent exit became public knowledge were as loud as any that greeted goals from the Blues when they fans were last allowed into the stadium.

<h2>- 'The fans have won' -</h2>

Chelsea supporter Dan Silver said: "I'm absolutely delighted that common sense has prevailed. The fans being at Stamford Bridge had an impact I believe.

"This is by far the best decision for the future of the beautiful game. No one should ever underestimate football fans again."

Another unnamed supporter shouted: "The fans have won."

Chelsea were believed to have initially agreed to sign up after fearing they would be left behind financially.

But they have back-tracked following furious criticism that culminated in the protest on their own doorstep.

Chelsea fans had unfurled banners reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing"

Blue smoke bombs were let off and fans staged a sit-down protest in the road while police attempted to control the crowds.&nbsp;

Former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, now the club's technical advisor, called on demonstrators to clear the roads to allow the team bus to reach the stadium, shouting "give us time" before being drowned out by angry fans.

By the time the players walked onto the pitch, the news had broken that the Super League scheme was in tatters.

"It felt like a monopoly trying to control the competition for profit and not the supporters. It was universal in how everyone got behind the issue. Hopefully we can move forward," Brighton boss Graham Potter said.

Tuchel's concern that his team would lose focus amid the Super League drama proved spot on in a tepid encounter.

It was Brighton who almost snatched the points in the 80th minute when Danny Welbeck's curler smacked off the far post.

Brighton had Ben White sent off for a second booking in stoppage-time, but they held on to move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League.

Chelsea moved into the Premier League's top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club's role in derailing the controversial European Super League. Just before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was widely reported that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had decided to withdraw from the controversial breakaway plan. While there was no official confirmation from the club, the Blues are understood to be preparing documents to formally quit the tournament. Manchester City became the first team to officially pull out, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham also confirming their exits. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the only remaining members of a Super League that crumbled before a match was ever played. Against that dramatic backdrop, Chelsea produced a flat performance, although the draw saw Thomas Tuchel's side move into fourth place above West Ham on goal difference. "We talk of nothing else but Super League before the match. I was affected so I think the players were affected," Tuchel said. "The situation was not clear. I was informed like you were informed. You have to accept the distraction. "We tried to create an atmosphere to win the game but could not. We looked mentally tired." Chelsea visit West Ham on Saturday in a crucial clash in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League. Just hours before kick-off, it seems Chelsea would not have to worry about qualifying for Europe thanks to their invitation to the closed-door Super League. But after resounding condemnation from across the political and sporting spectrum, Chelsea are set to walk away. Abramovich and chairman Bruce Buck reportedly feared staying in the Super League would seriously damage Chelsea's reputation, therefore undermining their anti-semitism campaigning and community work. While Stamford Bridge remained empty due to the coronavirus pandemic, around 1,000 fans had staged an angry protest before news of the Super League meltdown broke. The cheers when Chelsea's imminent exit became public knowledge were as loud as any that greeted goals from the Blues when they fans were last allowed into the stadium. - 'The fans have won' - Chelsea supporter Dan Silver said: "I'm absolutely delighted that common sense has prevailed. The fans being at Stamford Bridge had an impact I believe. "This is by far the best decision for the future of the beautiful game. No one should ever underestimate football fans again." Another unnamed supporter shouted: "The fans have won." Chelsea were believed to have initially agreed to sign up after fearing they would be left behind financially. But they have back-tracked following furious criticism that culminated in the protest on their own doorstep. Chelsea fans had unfurled banners reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" Blue smoke bombs were let off and fans staged a sit-down protest in the road while police attempted to control the crowds. Former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, now the club's technical advisor, called on demonstrators to clear the roads to allow the team bus to reach the stadium, shouting "give us time" before being drowned out by angry fans. By the time the players walked onto the pitch, the news had broken that the Super League scheme was in tatters. "It felt like a monopoly trying to control the competition for profit and not the supporters. It was universal in how everyone got behind the issue. Hopefully we can move forward," Brighton boss Graham Potter said. Tuchel's concern that his team would lose focus amid the Super League drama proved spot on in a tepid encounter. It was Brighton who almost snatched the points in the 80th minute when Danny Welbeck's curler smacked off the far post. Brighton had Ben White sent off for a second booking in stoppage-time, but they held on to move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Chelsea back in top four, but Super League drama overshadows Brighton draw

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal were six of the 12 clubs that signed up to the breakaway competition that guaranteed spots each year and billions of dollars for founding members.

But reaction to the plans has been scathing, with politicians and football chiefs threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions.

City were the first to withdraw, followed by United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and finally Chelsea -- just 48 hours after the Super League was first announced.

That leaves just six Spanish and Italian sides -- Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus -- still involved.

Manchester United announced the departure of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, and Arsenal apologised to fans for their "mistake".

"As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League," an Arsenal statement said.

"We made a mistake, and we apologise for it."

The Super League said it would look at ways to rescue the venture, insisting: "The existing system does not work."

"We shall consider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," a statement said.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he was "delighted" and the English Football Association also welcomed the withdrawals, praising fans for "their influential and unequivocal voice".

Reigning European champions Bayern Munich and French giants Paris Saint-Germain both came out strongly opposed to the breakaway league.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tweeted a statement on behalf of the squad, saying: "We don't like it and we don't want it to happen. This is our collective position."

On a day of intense drama, Manchester United announced that Woodward would step down from his role at the end of 2021.

Earlier, Ceferin, addressing the owners, particularly of the Premier League teams involved, said there was still time for clubs to pull out.

"Some will say it is greed, some complete ignorance of England's football culture," he said. "There's still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a stark warning to the heavyweight clubs who had signed up to the ESL.

"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," Infantino said at UEFA's congress in Switzerland.

<h2>- 'RIP football' -</h2>

More than 1,000 fans gathered outside Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium to protest against the plan before Tuesday's Premier League match against Brighton, which ended in a 0-0 draw.

Fans held up signs reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" -- in reference to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

Speaking after reports emerged that Chelsea were set to pull out, supporter Tom Cunningham said he was "over the moon".

"Greed has not prospered," he said. "We are here, we're the people, multiple fans, standing against disgusting greed and we've triumphed."

British Prime Minster Boris Johnson earlier met Premier League clubs, the FA and fan groups, vowing to do all in his power to kill the ESL plan.

He tweeted, before City's decision was confirmed: "The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is –- if confirmed –- absolutely the right one and I commend them for it."

The 20-team ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members.

<h2>- 'It's not a sport' -</h2>

However, the plan was fiercely criticised by even their own players and managers for acting as a closed shop.

"It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

"It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose."

The 12 teams had signed up to share in an initial pot of more than 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion) -- vastly boosting their revenues, which have been badly hit during the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the proposals, announced late Sunday, five more clubs would have had to qualify annually for the midweek competition, joining the 15 permanent members.

Currently, teams have to qualify for the Champions League each year through their national competitions, and survive a group phase before reaching the high-profile latter stages.

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities.

The proposed European Super League appeared dead in the water on Wednesday after all six English clubs withdrew following a furious backlash from fans and threats from football authorities. Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal were six of the 12 clubs that signed up to the breakaway competition that guaranteed spots each year and billions of dollars for founding members. But reaction to the plans has been scathing, with politicians and football chiefs threatening to take legal action against the so-called "dirty dozen", who were told they faced potential bans from domestic and continental competitions. City were the first to withdraw, followed by United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and finally Chelsea -- just 48 hours after the Super League was first announced. That leaves just six Spanish and Italian sides -- Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus -- still involved. Manchester United announced the departure of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, and Arsenal apologised to fans for their "mistake". "As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League," an Arsenal statement said. "We made a mistake, and we apologise for it." The Super League said it would look at ways to rescue the venture, insisting: "The existing system does not work." "We shall consider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project," a statement said. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he was "delighted" and the English Football Association also welcomed the withdrawals, praising fans for "their influential and unequivocal voice". Reigning European champions Bayern Munich and French giants Paris Saint-Germain both came out strongly opposed to the breakaway league. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tweeted a statement on behalf of the squad, saying: "We don't like it and we don't want it to happen. This is our collective position." On a day of intense drama, Manchester United announced that Woodward would step down from his role at the end of 2021. Earlier, Ceferin, addressing the owners, particularly of the Premier League teams involved, said there was still time for clubs to pull out. "Some will say it is greed, some complete ignorance of England's football culture," he said. "There's still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes." FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a stark warning to the heavyweight clubs who had signed up to the ESL. "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," Infantino said at UEFA's congress in Switzerland. - 'RIP football' - More than 1,000 fans gathered outside Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium to protest against the plan before Tuesday's Premier League match against Brighton, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Fans held up signs reading: "RIP Football 1863 - 2021", "Created by the poor, stolen by the rich", "We want our cold nights in Stoke" and "Roman do the right thing" -- in reference to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. Speaking after reports emerged that Chelsea were set to pull out, supporter Tom Cunningham said he was "over the moon". "Greed has not prospered," he said. "We are here, we're the people, multiple fans, standing against disgusting greed and we've triumphed." British Prime Minster Boris Johnson earlier met Premier League clubs, the FA and fan groups, vowing to do all in his power to kill the ESL plan. He tweeted, before City's decision was confirmed: "The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is –- if confirmed –- absolutely the right one and I commend them for it." The 20-team ESL was designed by the European giants to guarantee revenue from regular matches against one another without the risk of failing to qualify for 15 founder members. - 'It's not a sport' - However, the plan was fiercely criticised by even their own players and managers for acting as a closed shop. "It's not a sport when the relation between effort and reward doesn't exist," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. "It's not a sport when success is already guaranteed, it's not a sport if it doesn't matter if you lose." The 12 teams had signed up to share in an initial pot of more than 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion) -- vastly boosting their revenues, which have been badly hit during the coronavirus pandemic. Under the proposals, announced late Sunday, five more clubs would have had to qualify annually for the midweek competition, joining the 15 permanent members. Currently, teams have to qualify for the Champions League each year through their national competitions, and survive a group phase before reaching the high-profile latter stages.

Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs.

"(Juventus) believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived," the Turin club said in a statement.

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan had earlier pulled their name out of the European Super League following the footsteps of all English Premier League clubs in what was the final nail in the coffin for the controversial tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-league-left-for-dead-as-atletico-madrid-inter-and-ac-milan-pull-out-379022" hreflang="en">Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out</a>

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.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its 15 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 COVID-19 pandemic.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-fans-took-on-multi-billionaires-to-take-down-european-super-league-379039" hreflang="en">How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League</a>

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.

Even Juventus president Agnelli had earlier told Reuters that he doesn’t see the tournament going ahead after the withdrawal of Premier League clubs.

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs.

Serie A giants Juventus, one of the driving forces behind the breakaway European Super League, on Wednesday said that the project could not go ahead as planned following the withdrawal of the majority of the 12 founding clubs. "(Juventus) believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived," the Turin club said in a statement. Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan had earlier pulled their name out of the European Super League following the footsteps of all English Premier League clubs in what was the final nail in the coffin for the controversial tournament. ALSO READ: Super League left for dead as Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan pull out 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. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its 15 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 COVID-19 pandemic. IN PICS: How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League 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. Even Juventus president Agnelli had earlier told Reuters that he doesn’t see the tournament going ahead after the withdrawal of Premier League clubs.

Italian giants Juventus accepts European Super League failure

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

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