EFL issues statement condemning proposed European Super League

The EFL says it "stands" with the Premier League, Football Association and the other governing bodies reeling from a "breakaway" of England's 'Big Six'.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham have all signalled their intention to join the new European Super League - a new annual elite European competition that guarantees their participation as founding members.

Supporters of clubs, including those six, are seething. Pundits and governing bodies, and even the Prime Minister, have lodged their disapproval of the plans, which threaten to change the game as we know it forever.

A banner outside Anfield, home of Liverpool FC, today. Credit: PA

Now, the English Football League, which is responsible for the Championship, League One, and League Two, has confirmed its opposition to the Super League.

In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the body said it joins it colleagues across European professional football in condemnation of proposals which "attack the foundation of open and fair competition upon which our game is built".

The EFL goes on to say: "A strong pyramid based on promotion, relegation and ultimately European qualification, is fundamental to our game’s continued success. The EFL opposes any reform that doesn’t support competition integrity or offer clubs the prospect of one day competing at the highest end of the game."

The body adds: "Across EFL competitions, any club can triumph over another and fans of all clubs regardless of size and status, must always be afforded the hope that successes on the pitch will be rewarded.

"The Championship is one of Europe’s most prominent divisions and the gateway to England’s top tier. The introduction of a predominantly closed European competition at the elite end kills a part of the game and the League system we established over a century ago."

A banner which reads 'Created by the Poor. Stolen by the Rich' outside Manchester United's home ground. Credit: PA

The EFL says it has "long stated" the economics and governance of the English pyramid should be "reset" and says it remains "committed" to working with the Premier League, FA, and the game's stakeholders to "deliver that vision".

This morning, UEFA announced its new plans for a revamped Champions League of 36 clubs - the EFL said in its statement that its "rejection" of the Super League does not represent an "endorsement" of UEFA's proposed reforms, because the EFL believes the reforms represent a "significant challenge" to English football's domestic programme.

The statement reads: "Under both proposals, the EFL has concerns about the future of the League Cup which provides vital income to EFL clubs, is the breeding ground for stars of the future and provides the top and bottom of the English pyramid the opportunity to win the first major trophy of the season.

"The EFL will continue to work with colleagues across the game at home and abroad, to defend our national game, protect our members and ensure that fans continue to have a healthy, vibrant and enduring pyramid system that they can continue to be proud of."