English clubs will not be allowed to split off to join a European Super League, according to plans unveiled by the UK government for forming an independent football regulator. The Premier League’s ‘big six’ teams—Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Tottenham—attempted to quit English football in 2021, but were forced to back down after significant criticism and fan demonstrations. Owners were also compelled to apologise.
It prompted a fan-led investigation into English football to stop the incidents from happening again, to make sure that owners manage their teams properly, and to address problems with how money is distributed to the grassroots and lower leagues, among other things. For example, the investigation sought to prevent a recurrence of the recent financial mismanagement at clubs like Bury FC.
UK government to ensure clubs don’t break away to join European Super League
The UK government will now move forward and publish its White Paper on the sport’s governance on Thursday, outlining the legislation, with the goal of protecting English football’s cultural legacy. A stricter owners’ and directors’ test will be implemented, supporters will have the authority to stop owners from changing a club’s name, crest, or colours, and there will be a more equitable distribution of funds flowing down the English football pyramid, according to new plans. English teams will also be prohibited from joining breakaway leagues such as the European Super League.
The government said in its official statement:
“The English game remains one of the UK’s greatest cultural exports, with clubs and leagues around the world modelling themselves on its success. That is why the government is today taking the necessary and targeted steps to ensure that continues for generations.
“The regulator will have the power to prevent English clubs from joining new competitions that do not meet a predetermined criteria, in consultation with the FA and fans. That criteria could include measures to stop clubs participating in closed-shop breakaway competitions which harm the domestic game, such as the European Super League.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak added:
“Since its inception over 165 years ago, English football has been bringing people together, providing a source of pride for communities and inspiration to millions of fans across the country. Yet despite the success of the sport both at home and abroad, we know that there are real challenges which threaten the stability of clubs both big and small. The new plans will protect the rich heritage and traditions of our much-loved clubs and safeguard the beautiful game for future generations.’
The English Football League said in a statement:
“The EFL has been clear that the English game needs a fundamental financial reset in order make the game sustainable. The white paper represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity that must be seized to address the systemic issues that football has been unable to sort itself over the last 30 years.”
Maheta Molango, chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association, added:
“The white paper rightly focus on ensuring our game moves forward with well-run clubs operating on a more sustainable financial footing. We will work to ensure that the important mechanisms and structures that exist to protect players rights and conditions are properly understood and maintained as part of any future financial reforms in the game.”