The Premier League and FA have met with the 14 teams outside of the division’s ‘big six’ to discuss the ‘immediate implications’ of the European Super League proposals.
Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal have sent shockwaves through the game after confirming their agreement to join a breakaway competition, featuring Europe’s elite sides in a tournament that threatens the existence of the Champions League and domestic divisions.
The ‘big six’ are amongst 12 teams from England, Italy and Spain to have announced their intentions, with the tournament set to guarantee annual entry for 15 founder clubs alongside just five qualifiers.
Leading figures from across the game have lambasted the proposals as a show of greed from the financial elite, a closed shop competition that allows the rich to get richer and the poor struggle to compete.
Everton and West Ham are amongst the clubs to have condemned the plans and Premier League officials have now met with the rest of the top-flight clubs to discuss the immediate action that will be taken.
Speaking in a statement, the Premier League have said: “The Premier League, alongside The FA, met with clubs today to discuss the immediate implications of the Super League proposal.
“The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition. The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those shareholders involved to account under its rules.
“The League will continue to work with key stakeholders including fan groups, government, Uefa, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to protect the best interests of the game and call on those clubs involved in the proposed competition to cease their involvement immediately.
“The Premier League would like to thank fans and all stakeholders for the support they have shown this week on this significant issue. The reaction proves just how much our open pyramid and football community means to people.”
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