The EU Court of Justice has backed UEFA in their war against the controversial breakaway European Super League in a major blow to rebel clubs.
Controversial plans were announced last year for a number of top Champions League clubs to spin off into their own offshoot competition and although the vast majority of clubs backed down, including Liverpool, Manchester United and four more from the Premier League, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has refused to give up hope. Real, Barca and Juventus are yet to formally withdraw and Alexander Ceferin and UEFA were presented with fresh plans last month, which were shot down in flames at a meeting.
The proposals threaten the likes of Celtic and Rangers and clubs outwith the top five leagues over their European future in the coming years. But a new update from UEFA has revealed support from the EU Advocate General Athanasios Rantos ahead of a final court judgement next year.
A statement reads: "UEFA welcomes today’s unequivocal Opinion of Advocate General Rantos, which is an encouraging step towards preserving the existing dynamic and democratic governance structure of the European football pyramid. The opinion reinforces the central role of federations in protecting the sport, upholding fundamental principles of sporting merit and open access across our members, as well as uniting football with shared responsibility and solidarity.
"Football in Europe remains united and steadfastly opposed to the ESL, or any such breakaway proposals, which would threaten the entire European sports ecosystem. While we await the Court’s final judgment due next year, UEFA, as a public interest, not-for-profit governing body, will continue to be fully focused on its mission to develop football for all, in close cooperation with national associations, leagues, clubs, players, fans, EU institutions, governments and other relevant stakeholders who have the true values of football at heart."
DON'T MISS:Josip Juranovic's preferred Celtic transfer exit destination named as star's agent hunts for post World Cup solution
Andy Walker demands Celtic respect from Michael Beale as Rangers boss fired pointed reminder after 'wee dig'
Rangers squad revealed as Connor Goldson and 2 other stars force Michael Beale into last minute Hibs calls
READ NEXT
READ MORE: Josip Juranovic's preferred Celtic transfer exit destination named as star's agent hunts for post World Cup solution
