Chelsea have followed Man Utd in distancing themselves from the ESL (Picture: Getty)
Chelsea have issued a statement in response to potential plans to revive the controversial European Super League, insisting that they are not interested.
The prospects of a future breakaway competition were boosted on Thursday after judges said UEFA rules blocking the formation of such a competition were contrary to EU law.
Chelsea were among the clubs who threatened to join a rebel competition back in 2021, before a furious supporter-led backlash prompted a major U-turn.
But the Blues have followed Manchester United in distancing themselves from a European Super League revival with their own official statement.
‘The judgment issued today by the European Court of Justice does not change Chelsea FC’s position,’ the Chelsea statement read.
‘We firmly believe that, by working with the Premier League, The FA, other European clubs through our strong relationship with the ECA, and with UEFA and FIFA, we can, together, continue to develop the European game for the benefit of everyone.’
The Premier League have also issued a statement, which read: ‘The Premier League notes today’s judgment in the European Court of Justice case involving the “European Superleague Company”, FIFA and UEFA. This is a significant ruling and we will now fully examine its implications for the game.
‘The ruling does not endorse the so-called “European Super League” and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept.
‘Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a “breakaway” competition that severs the link between domestic and European football.
‘The Premier League reiterates its commitment to the clear principles of open competition that underpin the success of domestic and international club competitions.
‘Football thrives on the competitiveness created by promotion and relegation, the annual merit-based qualification from domestic leagues and cups to international club competitions and the longstanding rivalries and rituals that come with weekends being reserved for domestic football.
‘These principles are enshrined in the Premier League Owners’ Charter, introduced in June 2022, which aims to improve the collective strength and competitiveness of the League in the best interests of the wider game.
‘Since 2021, the Premier League, alongside other football bodies, has also strengthened its rules and governance in this area.
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‘The Premier League will continue to engage in an open and constructive dialogue, with all relevant football stakeholders, on how best to protect and enhance the complementary balance of domestic and international club football.’
Meanwhile, Premier League champions Manchester City said: ‘Manchester City Football Club confirmed in 2021 that it had formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.
‘Our position has not changed. We remain committed to the values of European football, and we will continue to work with fellow clubs through the ECA and participate in UEFA competitions.’
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