One of Arsene Wenger’s final predictions as Arsenal manager was to state that one day a European Super League would be a reality. For a man who controlled most aspects of the club it’s hard to believe he wouldn’t have been aware of any talks going on.
“In a few years you will certainly have a European league over the weekends,” said Wenger.
“It is inevitable. Why? First of all, to share money between the big clubs and small clubs will become a problem.”
“The big clubs will say: ‘if two smaller clubs are playing each other nobody wants to watch it. People want to watch quality. So we have to share the money but nobody is interested in you’.
“A domestic league will certainly play Tuesday, Wednesday. I think that is the next step we will see.”
The idea of facing a European power house is always exciting, the prospect of doing it every week is a novelty that would soon wear off. Organisers though are not considering fans interests but are purely motivated by money. They are willing to throw so much cash at this project to buy the values of certain owners. Let’s not be naive, the world is motivated by money.
It would be unprecedented though to go against your fan base. The reason why we have been picked as one of the participants is the awareness that if 60,000 gooners turned their nose up at this idea, thousands more are on the waiting list. It’s hard to see Stan Kroenke being opposed to these plans. A chance to be in a domestic competition with no promotion/relegation. No matter where you finish you become rich by simply being part of the brand.
If you think the American is not ambitious enough to win the Premiership, imagine a set up where last place would be worth more than being Champions of your country? Our worst case though is we become even more wealthy. Sometimes though you need to spare the thought for the rest. What would a tournament mean without us, Chelsea, Liverpool and the Manchester sides? What would a TV deal look like for the rest? Would stadiums sell out when the biggest name heading to your city is Spurs? The rise of the likes of Bournemouth and Huddersfield would suddenly be less romantic. Imagine a fixture list without certain away dates. While a trip to Goodison Park, St James Park, etc are not as sexy as the Nou Camp, they offer the competitiveness that have made English Football such a market which could now be exploited.
The only way I would be open to such a creation is if it were a direct replacement for the Champion’s League. UEFA’s prime competition is due an upgrade, but I still would demand a system where you can qualify/be demoted.
Comment below on your thoughts of a European Super League.
Dan Smith