European Super League (ESL) officials suffered a significant blow on Saturday as Juventus abandoned plans to reform the breakaway competition. The Italian side was previously one of a dozen big clubs that signed up to create the league back in 2021. Nine of these teams, however, quickly withdrew their intentions at the time due to a fan revolt.
Despite the backlash, Juve remained committed to the ESL alongside Spanish duo Barcelona and Real Madrid. A court victory back in December of 2023 essentially paved the way for the breakaway to potentially form in the near future. The European Court of Justice declared that both FIFA and UEFA abused their power in attempting to block the ESL from forming.
Officials have been attempting to persuade other European clubs to join the new league ever since the ruling. In fact, just a month after the court’s decision, ESL execs claimed that 20 teams were ready to join the new division. Nevertheless, Juve’s new change of mind may throw a wrench into the works of the breakaway league.
PSG exec welcomes Juve back, takes shot at Spanish duo
In withdrawing their intentions to join the ESL, Juve also requested to rejoin the European Club Association (ECA). The organization, officially recognized by FIFA and UEFA, works to develop clubs’ interests on the continent. ECA’s current chairman also happens to be Paris Saint-German president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.
The exec claimed that the Italian side will be welcomed back with open arms in a statement released on Saturday. “They are back. It is great,” proclaimed Al-Khelaifi. “The club has an amazing history. We are proud they are back to their family. I also call the others to be back.”
Nasser Al-Khelaifi was delighted to welcome Juventus back into the UEFA fold
Despite Juve’s new position, Barca and Real appear willing to continue on with their ESL plans. Madrid president…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/juventus-officially-bows-out-of-european-super-league-plans/
Author : Chris Moore
Publish date : 2024-06-01 17:38:05
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