Is the European Super League dead and buried? Juventus back out of plot to form breakaway competition as only Real Madrid and Barcelona remain

Juventus, one of the founding members of the ESL, have decided to rejoin the European Club Association (ECA), a body representing over 600 teams that have been vehemently opposed to the Super League. The ECA, chaired by Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has been at the forefront of the fight to preserve the existing European football framework and thwart the formation of the ESL.

Al-Khelaifi welcomed Juventus back into the ECA fold, stating: “They are back. It is great. The club has an amazing history. We are proud they are back to their family. I also call the others [Barcelona and Madrid] to come back”

In a recent meeting of the ECA Executive Committee in London, ahead of the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, Al-Khelaifi reiterated his call for unity among Europe’s football clubs.

“They can play two teams, home and away for 20 matches?”, he said. “It is not for anyone’s interest. They are going against their [own] interests today.”

Al-Khelaifi also pointed out the contradiction in Real Madrid’s stance, noting the club’s expressed affection for the Champions League while simultaneously seeking to undermine it. “I heard yesterday [Madrid] talked about the love story between Madrid and the Champions League. On the other hand, they want to destroy the Champions League," he said.

With Juve's departure, Real Madrid and Barcelona find themselves increasingly isolated in their quest to establish the ESL. This latest setback for the ESL follows a tumultuous journey that saw initial plans for the league face widespread condemnation and eventual collapse in 2021. The initial proposal, which included 12 of Europe’s top clubs, faced a fierce backlash from fans, football associations, and political leaders, forcing many clubs to withdraw their support. Despite these challenges, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez remains steadfast in his determination to pursue the ESL. Perez argues that the ESL represents a “great opportunity to improve European club football,” although his vision has not garnered the necessary support from other leading clubs.

As Juventus reclaim their place within the ECA, the future of the ESL looks increasingly uncertain. The isolation of Madrid and Barcelona may force a reevaluation of the breakaway plans, however, it is unlikely that they will shelve the plans any time in the near future.

Al-Khelaifi has extended an olive branch, expressing willingness to engage in discussions with the remaining ESL advocates about reintegration into the ECA and working collaboratively for the betterment of European football.

“It’s really important for us and for them,” Al-Khelaifi said.

As things stand, Perez's vision for a 20-team elite tournament is still some way from coming to fruition.