European Super League CEO claims clubs are being ‘threatened’ to reject breakaway tournament as UEFA accused of ’an iron first dictatorship’ for 70 years

On Thursday, A22 unveiled a new proposal for a European Super League, after the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that UEFA and Fifa cannot block its creation. Of the clubs that initially supported the project in 2021, Real Madrid and Barcelona are the only two to have come out in support this time around. Super League CEO Bernd Reichart says that is because other clubs feel intimidated.

Reichart said: "This latest Super League proposal has come to light with the contribution of many clubs, we have spoken with many clubs in recent months. But these clubs are afraid to appear publicly because of the threats. Many clubs support the project.

"Clubs have been under a monopoly for 70 years, an iron fist dictatorship, we have to change the chip, it is normal that some take longer and others less, but it is a great opportunity for clubs to manage their future."

When posed with rumours that Saudi Pro League clubs could be invited to join the Super League, Reichart said: "Saudi Arabian clubs in the Super League? There will be no non-European clubs in the Super League. Only European clubs."

A host of Premier League, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1 and La Liga clubs have come out in opposition to the Super League. Juventus are believed to still be involved in the project, although the Italian giants have yet to make a public statement on the matter.

Time will tell if Reichart is telling the truth about clubs being hesitant to publicly side with his project. If they do eventually switch sides, then club football will change forever.