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      Premier League drastically rewriting rulebook so they can KICK OUT clubs who try to join future Super League

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      PREM bosses will rewrite their rulebook this summer – to make any future moves to join a Super League an EXPULSION offence.The dramatic step, agreed by chief executive Richard Masters, comes in the wake of the turmoil of the past week.
      The Premier League are putting in new rules in the wake of the controversial attempted European Super League breakawayCredit: Reuters
      Prem chief executive Richard Masters hopes the new rules will go through at the June AGMCredit: Getty
      Clubs outside the Big Six are still wanting payback.
      And Masters is moving to ensure the rule changes go through on the nod at the June annual general meeting.
      A rule making it effectively illegal to enter into any breakaway talks will be drafted.
      One prominent insider explained: “This will kill off the threat….for ever.”
      Masters was already part way through a thorough review of the League’s governance rules before this week’s crisis blew up.
      The chief exec has demonstrated a calm and determined stance, including enlisting the backing of PM Boris Johnson.
      Masters emailed all 20 club chiefs when the crisis broke.
      He urged the rebels to ‘walk away immediately’ and promising ‘complete condemnation’ from all elements of the game and Westminster.
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      It was already accepted that rules needed to be tightened up after the gaps were illustrated by the chaos after last season’s March shutdown.
      Rows between the clubs who were seeking to close down the entire season and teams – including all of the Big Six – who were determined to play to a finish rumbled for months before Project Restart kicked into gear in June.
      But the events since Sunday’s breakaway announcement, which culminated in Tuesday’s humiliating cave-in by the rebels, has further clarified the determination of Prem bosses to make sure it can never be repeated.

      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      There are some quality players up for grabs for nothing
      What happens now the European Super League has collapsed More

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      European Super League LIVE: Real Madrid vs Chelsea may get POSTPONED – Ceferin, Celtic and Rangers British Super League

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      CHELSEA’S Champions League tie with Real Madrid could be postponed, says Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin.The Slovene is furious with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and not shy of admitting it, making the comments in an interview in Slovenia.
      Meanwhile the ill-fated Super League could make way for a British Super League with Rangers and Celtic.
      SunSport can exclusively reveal that an offer to the Old Firm to join is top of the list of plans being actively discussed for reform of the Premier League.
      That means they would join Man Utd, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and all the biggest English stars for what would be a massive change to the UK sporting landscape.
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
      SUPER LEAGUE ON STANDBY
      A reminder that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is not taking no for an answer.
      Perez is adamant the European Super League is not a busted flush and simply on hold.
      Perez said: “We’re going to continue working. The project is on standby.”
      Nothing if not stubborn but will his faith in the failed proposal pay off or is he simply wasting everyone’s time?
      LAUGHING STOCK
      Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he thought it was a joke when he heard about the European Super League announcement.
      Ancelotti could not believe what he was hearing after the six Premier League clubs attempted to join the breakaway group.
      Carlo Ancelotti could not believe the Super League breakawayCredit: Reuters
      Ancelotti said: “My immediate reaction was they are joking, this is a joke!”
      “It’s a joke because it’s not going to happen. It’s impossible.
      “Sport culture in Europe is different to American sports. Not because we are right and they are wrong, but because the culture of the people is different. In America, in the USA, sport is different. Sport is entertainment.”
      ONE TO PER-GET
      Premier League clubs have no chance of signing Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland without money from the doomed European Super League.
      That is the view of deluded Real Madrid president Florentino Perez who is still desperately clinging to the remains of the money-grabbing scheme despite all six English clubs bailing on it already.
      Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with Borussia Dortmund ace Haaland.
      His agent, the controversial Mino Raiola, even embarked on a world tour to meet prospective clubs interested in the free-scoring sensation.
      And Mbappe has been linked with a Paris Saint-Germain exit too.
      The France international’s current contract with the Ligue 1 champions expires next summer and talks over a new deal have yet to bear fruit with Manchester City linked.
      NO JOSHING
      Arsenal director Josh Kroenke WILL appear at an online fans’ forum this afternoon.
      The meeting was initially postponed following the European Super League announcement that caused uproar last weekend.
      Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Following passionate protests, the ESL crumbled, but supporters are still demanding answers from those in charge.
      The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust demanded that Kroenke or his father Stan be present at the fans’ forum, as it was they who signed off on Tuesday’s ‘apology’.
      They tweeted: “Yesterday the AST along with most supporter forum members sent the following to Arsenal: The statement issued by Arsenal clearly signs off as the ‘Arsenal Board’.
      “As we know, [chief executive] Vinai Venkatesham is not on the board so who from the board will be joining us on Thursday to apologise and justify their decisions over the last few days?
      “We expect Stan Kroenke or Josh Kroenke to be present – and if they really are sorry, they can tell us themselves. It’s been confirmed that JK will be attending. We’ll be telling him exactly what we think!”
      DON’T DO IT!
      Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s aide told the UAE to stop Manchester City playing in the Super League.
      The Times reports Lord Udny-Lister, the PM’s special envoy to the Gulf, warned the country’s government that it would damage the relationship with the UK.
      City are owned by the Abu Dhabi United group controlled by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan – UAE deputy PM.
      It highlights how desperate Johnson was to derail the breakaway and highly controversial league.
      Credit: AFP
      HARRY UP!
      SunSport understands Tottenham striker Harry Kane is winning his race to be fit for the Carabao Cup final against Man City on Sunday.
      Kane sat out the 2-1 win over Southampton, as 29-year-old Ryan Mason took charge for the first time after Jose Mourinho’s sacking.

      BARC FOR GOOD?
      Barcelona will put the Super League to a vote of their members, president Joan Laporta confirmed.
      Laporta told TV3: We have a position of prudence. It is a necessity (the Super League), but the last word will be from the members. We big clubs add a lot of resources and we must talk about the division of money.
      “It must be an attractive competition, based on sporting merits. We are in favor of the national leagues and we are open to a frank dialogue with UEFA. We need more resources to make this a great show. I believe there will be an understanding.”
      It comes as Laporta’s Real Madrid counterpart Florentino Perez slammed the idea, saying: “Do I have to ask the fans every time I sign a player?”
      The Dirty DozenCredit: AFP
      LACA OPTIONS
      Mikel Arteta will have to make do without Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette against Everton on Friday night.
      Arsenal host the Toffees for the 8pm kick-off without the bulk of their first-choice frontline.
      Here’s how the Gunners could line up.

      BRIT’S A WINNER
      Fans have thrown their support behind the proposed British Super League.
      SunSport exclusively revealed last night that plans were in place for Celtic and Rangers to join an 18-team British top-flight after the European Super League crumbled.

      IT’S NOT FINE
      Uefa are reportedly considering slapping sanction on the dirty dozen after their attempts to breakaway and start the Super League.
      The Guardian reports Uefa are increasingly more inclined to punish the 12 sides involved.
      President Aleksander Ceferin has warned the rebel teams that they will ‘suffer the consequences’ of ‘their mistake’.
      Punishments could extend to bans from the Champions League next season but it remains to be seen if or what is handed down to the sides.
      MEN IN BLUE
      Chelsea are in a four-way transfer battle for wonderkid Gabriel Menino, according to reports.
      The Brazilian has attracted interest with his ‘great technical qualities’ while playing for Palmeiras.
      The Blues are long-standing admirers of Menino, and have been linked with making a £17million swoop.
      But now they’ve got competition.
      According to Calciomercato, Tottenham are also interested in the gifted midfielder, who can play at right-back.
      Menino starred as his side won the Copa Libertadores last year, being selected in the official team of the tournament.
      Credit: Getty
      STRONGER UNITED?
      Bruno Fernandes has revealed he’ll sign a new contract at Manchester United – but only if Paul Pogba does too.
      However, that might not be quite as good news as fans would have first thought.
      After all, according to the stats, United are better all over the pitch when at least one of them is NOT playing.

      SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST
      Scottish champions Rangers would survive their first season in the British Premier League – but Celtic would be RELEGATED, according to Jamie O’Hara.
      SunSport exclusively revealed the Scottish giants are wanted down south as part of a new-look Premier League.
      The radical move would put Glasgow’s big two on a level financial playing field with the rest of England’s top-flight and see them wave goodbye to Scottish football.
      Rangers and Celtic’s dreams of moving south have been blocked in the past – and they would still require the backing of at least 14 Premier League clubs, plus the FA and SFA.
      But crucially, the cross-border league would receive the backing of Fifa, Uefa and the UK Government – with an exclusive SunSport poll revealing more fans want it than don’t.
      O’Hara told talkSPORT: “Right now, if they got put in tomorrow, I think Rangers would survive, they would stay up.
      “If you put them in the Premier League now I think Rangers would stay up with Steven Gerrard in charge. They’ve had a great season. Celtic would go down, I’d put them up for relegation.”
      Credit: The Sun

      SELL BY DATE
      One of the Big Six owners is reportedly close to putting the club up for sale.
      All the mega rich owners have been slammed in the wake of the Super League debacle.
      And Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol reports one is ready to quit the club and cash in.
      Owners beginning to sit up and take notice. Hearing one owner close to throwing the towel in and putting his club up for sale— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) April 22, 2021

      RICCI RICH
      Arsenal are reportedly in competition with Leicester in the race to sign Empoli starlet Samuele Ricci in the summer.
      The 19-year-old midfielder has impressed for the Serie B outfit this term – chipping in with two goals and four assists in 29 league matches.
      And according to Tuttomercatoweb, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed as the Gunners and Foxes look to bring him to England.
      They state that both clubs have made contact with the player’s agent about a potential move at the end of the season.
      And Empoli may be forced to cash in on the Italy youth international to avoid losing him on a free in 2022 when his contract expires.
      Understood to be one of Italy’s most promising talents, Ricci has been a key player for the Blues since breaking into the first-team in September 2019.
      It has been suggested that Empoli could be willing to do business should they receive a fee in the region of £10million.
      Credit: Getty

      TAMMY BUG
      Chelsea outcast Tammy Abraham has been linked with a return to Aston Villa with the striker ‘sad and angry’ at the Blues.
      The striker has fallen out of favour since Thomas Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard in January and a Villa Park reunion is reportedly on the cards.
      Abraham, 23, has not played for the Blues since February and he wasn’t even in the squad for Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final win against Manchester City.
      The England ace does not appear to be in Tuchel’s plans and his spot in Gareth Southgate’s Euros squad is undoubtedly at risk given his lack of game time.
      As a result, his old club Villa are keeping tabs on the situation ahead of a potential summer move, according to the Birmingham Mail.
      Abraham scored 26 goals in 40 games on loan at Villa to help fire the club back to the Premier League in the 2018-19 season.
      He is said to retain several admirers at Villa Park with Dean Smith expected to target attacking reinforcements at the end of this campaign.
      Credit: EPA
      ED’S ROLLED
      Gary Lineker claimed he knows Ed Woodward resigned because of his belief in the football pyramid.
      Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman announced on Monday he will leave the club by the end of 2021.
      The news came shortly before the controversial Super League crumbled with all Big Six clubs withdrawing from the widely-panned project.
      Woodward praised his club in a statement, saying: “I am extremely proud to have served United and it has been an honour to work for the world’s greatest football club for the past 16 years.”
      He added that it will be “difficult to walk away at the end of the year” but that he is “proud of the regeneration of the club’s culture”.

      Credit: PA
      PEOPLE’S CLUBS
      Government officials are considering mandating English football to adopt the German model of majority fan ownership.
      Bundesliga teams must ensure at least a 51 per cent stake in the club is held by supporters – although there are exceptions.
      The German FA (DFB) does not allow any side where more than 49 per cent is owned by private investors to compete, unless they can meet strict rules.
      For example, 75 per cent of Bayern Munich is owned by the supporters’ club and members vote on its president, with the remaining 25 per cent split between Audi, Adidas and Allianz.
      Any team owned by a single person or company was typically formed by that entity, such as car manufacturer Volkswagen, who founded top-flight club Wolfsburg in 1945.
      Should an investor hope to take majority control of a club, they need to have consistently invested for 20 years such as Hoffenheim chief Dietmar Hopp.
      Software magnate Hopp has nonetheless faced huge criticism from rival clubs for guiding the historically small club to European football.
      Introducing such a system to English football is being mooted following the European Super League debacle.
      Credit: Getty
      SORRY STATE
      Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke and CEO Vinai Venkatesham have apologised to boss Mikel Arteta and the club’s players following the Super League debacle.
      Arteta was asked if the bigwigs had said sorry at his press conference today and he replied: “Yes. Starting from Vinai, the ownership and everybody that is involved in the process.
      “All of them, with the right intentions to defend the club and put the club in the best possible position for now and for the future, but accepting that the way it’s been handled has had terrible consequences and that it was a mistake.
      “I really have to respect that when people have genuine intentions to do the best for this football club. But if it doesn’t happen or not the right thing to do, they can stand up here and apologise.
      “I’m speaking for myself and I think the players, staff, everybody working at the club, we have to accept that and move on. The way it’s been handled has been really good internally.”
      He was pressed on if the Kroenkes had also apologised and added: “Yes, absolutely. Obviously they have the maximum responsibility of running the football club and this is what they said.
      “They apologised for disturbing the team, not having the capacity or ability to communicate in a different way earlier and explain the reasons why.
      “They wanted me to pass on the message to the players. That’s all you can ask for. The way they’ve done it, I have to accept it completely.”
      Arsenal majority shareholder Stan KroenkeCredit: Getty
      GET A GRIP
      Florentino Perez continues to cling on to his European Super League dream despite nine clubs pulling out.
      And the Real Madrid president sensationally claimed protests from Chelsea fans were STAGED.
      He told Spanish radio show El Larguero: “If anyone thinks the Super League is dead, are they wrong? Absolutely.
      “We’re going to keep working and what everyone thinks is for the best will emerge.
      “The project is on standby. The Super League still exists.”
      Perez then unbelievably suggested ‘somebody placed’ the Chelsea fans to start the protest.
      He said: “Who brought those Chelsea fans to protest? Someone moved them.”
      Credit: Reuters
      HAAL OR NOTHING
      Manchester United’s hopes of signing Erling Haaland this summer have been hit after Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director Michael Zorc insisted their star man will stay.
      Just hours after United’s humiliating European Super League about-turn, they have been handed another hammer blow.
      Dortmund chief Michael Zorc says that the 20-year-old striker won’t be moving anywhere – even if the Germans miss out on Champions League qualification.
      Speaking to Sky Germany, Zorc said: “We made a clear statement about the Haaland cause.
      “The decision will not be made without Borussia Dortmund. No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play for us.”

      FAN FURY
      Manchester United fans today broke into the club’s training complex to protest against the failed European Super League project – armed with a banner which read ‘We decide when you play’.
      Around 20 furious supporters targeted the Aon training complex in Carrington this morning – just hours before the first team squad were due in for training.
      A Manchester United spokesman addressed the situation, confirming that boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had spoken to protesters: “At approximately 9am this morning a group gained access to the club training ground.
      “The manager and others spoke to them. Buildings were secure and the group has now left the site.”
      Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher are also understood to have spoken to fans.
      Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
      Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
      Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
      FOR REAL?
      Real Madrid chief and Super League chairman Florentino Perez slammed Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin’s claims next week’s Champions League semi-final against Chelsea could be called OFF.
      Ceferin said there was a ‘relatively small chance’ the game may not take place in wake of the Super League scandal.
      But Perez snapped back at the claims.
      He said: “Why Ceferin says that there is a small chance that Real Madrid – Chelsea won’t be played?
      “Why? I don’t understand.”
      Credit: PA
      GAME OFF?
      Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin hinted Chelsea’s Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid may be called OFF.
      The football world is reeling in the wake of the rise and fall of the Super League this week.
      And Ceferin told Slovenian outlet 24ur.com: “The key is that the season has already started, the key is for the television to claim damages against us if we don’t play the semi-finals.
      “Therefore, there is a relatively small chance that this match will not take place next week. But it will be a little different in the future.”
      Credit: Getty
      GLAZED OVER
      Manchester United fans have BLOCKED both entrances to the club’s Carrington training complex as they protest against the Glazers.
      The American owners have had an uneasy relationship with the supporters for years, with debts having mounted and Old Trafford being allowed to rust.
      And the Super League debacle has sparked a fresh wave of discontent.
      Chelsea fans barricaded stars from entering Stamford Bridge prior to their match with Brighton on Wednesday night.
      And United supporters have followed suit, blocking the entrance to the Red Devils’ AON Training Complex at Carrington.
      Banners featured the slogans ‘Glazers Out’ and ’51& MUFC’, likely advocating for Germany’s 50+1 fan ownership rule.
      Fans holding up signs of protest made it onto the first team training pitch.

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      Fans’ hilarious ‘things that lasted longer than European Super League’ page including Gemma Collins’ I’m A Celeb stint

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      A BRILLIANT Twitter account mocking the failed European Super League has had football fans in stitches. Named ‘Things that lasted longer than the ESL’, the account has almost 20,000 followers despite the breakaway league’s collapse on Wednesday.

      The announcement of the proposed Super League was revealed on Sunday evening with 12 clubs included in the money-making ploy.
      It sparked an instant fierce backlash from supporters, players, managers and the UK Government.
      Chelsea and Manchester City were the first two clubs to pull out on Tuesday – after fans protested outside Stamford Bridge.
      All six Premier League clubs later withdrew and began to issue grovelling apologies to their fanbases.
      AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico also pulled out on Wednesday with Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli conceding the league was dead in the water.
      So what has lasted longer than the ESL?
      TV personality Gemma Collins lasted three days on her I’m A Celebrity stint.
      In 2018, Leeds attempted to change their historic badge but were quickly ridiculed.

      That idea last four days before the club decided to scrap the idea following a huge backlash.
      Others include Tottenham’s ‘title charge’ when they sat at the summit of the Premier League for a grand total of 16 days.
      And another brilliant comparison was the KFC crisis when the fast food joint famously ran out of chicken for three days in 2018.
      In 2010, tennis players John Isner and Nicolas Mahut played the longest match in history that lasted three days at Wimbledon.
      Prime minister Boris Johnson also had the British public on strings over Christmas by taking four days to backtrack on his promise of relaxing coronavirus rules around the festive period.
      Chelsea fans protested the ESL outside Stamford BridgeCredit: Reuters

      Despite the ridicule, deluded Real Madrid president Florentino Perez insists the idea is not dead yet.
      He told Spanish radio show El Larguero: “If anyone thinks the Super League is dead, are they wrong? Absolutely.
      “We’re going to keep working and what everyone thinks is for the best will emerge.
      “The project is on standby. The Super League still exists.”
      What happens now the European Super League has collapsed More

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      Deluded Florentino Perez claims Chelsea fan protest was STAGED as Real Madrid chief says Euro Super League is still ON

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      FLORENTINO PEREZ continues to cling on to his European Super League dream despite nine clubs pulling out.And the Real Madrid president sensationally claimed protests from Chelsea fans were STAGED.
      Deluded Sergio Perez can’t let go of the European Super LeagueCredit: AFP
      Fans crammed outside Stamford Bridge to make their voices heard – but Perez thinks it was fakedCredit: Reuters

      The Blues and Manchester City were the first two clubs to pull out of the money-making farce – much to the delight of Chelsea supporters who made their feelings known outside Stamford Bridge.
      Shortly after the protests began, all six Premier League clubs had withdrawn and began to issue grovelling apologies to their fanbases.
      AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico also pulled out on Wednesday with Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli conceding the league was dead in the water.
      But it appears Perez can’t let go of the doomed breakaway league.
      He told Spanish radio show El Larguero: “If anyone thinks the Super League is dead, are they wrong? Absolutely.
      “We’re going to keep working and what everyone thinks is for the best will emerge.
      “The project is on standby. The Super League still exists.”
      ‘SAD AND DISAPPOINTED’
      Perez added: “I’m a bit sad and disappointed because we’ve been working on this project for three years.
      “There was someone in the group of six English teams who wasn’t that interested and I think that started to become contagious among the others.
      “There are people of a certain age involved and maybe they were scared because they didn’t understand anything that was going on.
      “We all signed a binding contract, but I don’t think that one of them was ever convinced.
      Chelsea fans protested outside Stamford BridgeCredit: Alamy

      “In the end, there was an onslaught from the leagues and the Premier League got fired up, so they said, ‘we’ll leave it for now’.”
      Perez then unbelievably suggested ‘somebody placed’ the Chelsea fans to start the protest.
      He said: “Who brought those Chelsea fans to protest? Someone moved them.”

      British Super League being planned in secret with Celtic and Rangers joining Prem in new US-style play-off system More

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      Real Madrid chief Perez insists European Super League still ALIVE and NONE of Prem’s Big Six have paid to leave

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      EUROPEAN Super League ring leader Florentino Perez went on an astonishing rant last night and claimed the rebel league is still ALIVE.And the Real Madrid president hit out at Uefa and other football bigwigs for ‘terrible aggression’ and an ‘orchestrated’ attack on the plans – which he says would have SAVED football.
      Real Madrid president Florentino Perez insisted the European Super League is still onCredit: Reuters
      The ESL spectacularly fell apart in just two days of chaos when all six English teams quit on Tuesday night amid a massive backlash.
      Newly re-elected Real boss Perez has been one of the most vocal supporters of a breakaway league and was set to be its president.
      Now he claims that no clubs have actually left the European Super League… and he insists it is only on standby, despite the uproar.
      Speaking on Spanish show El Larguero, he said: “The founder clubs believed in this project. It is not dead. We will keep working.
      “Nobody has yet paid the penalisation fee for leaving. We are almost all still in this, they have not left yet.
      “Juventus and Milan have not left. Barca are thinking about it. Maybe we can change it a bit – that the top four in England enter, the top four in Spain.
      “The important thing is that the big teams play each other, so the kids will watch football.
      “The contracts are signed by serious people, businessmen who know this world. We agreed last night to wait and to try and explain better, and we are open to other ideas.”
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      The Super League shambles was condemned globally with fans joined by football execs and even politicians such as Boris Johnson and royalty in Prince William.
      Perez hit out at Uefa for their reaction and for the ‘manipulated campaign’ that domestic leagues were going to be killed by the European Super League.
      He said: “There was a campaign, totally manipulated, that we were going to finish the national leagues. That we were ending football, it was terrible. But we were working for football to survive.
      Who brought those Chelsea fans to protest? Someone moved them. There were only 40 Chelsea fans, and I could tell who brought them.Florentino Perez
      “I have never seen aggression greater on the part of the president of Uefa and other presidents, it was orchestrated. I’ve never seen anything like it – insults, threats, as if we had killed someone, killed football. It was like we had thrown an atomic bomb.
      “The problems is they killed us the very next day, with terrible aggression. We have made some mistakes for sure. But they knew what we were going to do, and were waiting for us. Those who do not want to lose their privileges.
      “The English PM said things, then the fans and people wanted to damage us. But when all this passes, and we see the reality, lets see what happens. These clubs are going to lose millions of euros, and cannot do that, apart from those in England.
      “There are people with privileges who do not want to lose them, and are willing to run clubs, although when the clubs are ruined they will lose their privileges.”
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Cadiz fans protest ahead of their clash with Real Madrid on WednesdayCredit: Getty
      Chelsea fans protested outside Stamford Bridge on Tuesday – but Perez said there were only about 40Credit: Alamy
      Manchester City were the first English team to withdraw on Tuesday with Chelsea close behind.
      Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham all followed within minutes of each other later that night.
      There were widespread protests at football ground around the country – including at Chelsea where Petr Cech was seen remonstrating with fans.
      Yet Perez reckons demonstrations were STAGED.
      Perez, 74, said: “Who brought those Chelsea fans to protest? Someone moved them – just like here someone gave Cadiz jerseys (against Super League).
      “There were only 40 Chelsea fans, and I could tell who brought them.”

      The Real chief continued: “There was someone in the English six clubs who did not have much interest. That started to affect the others, there was fear. One of the English clubs was never really convinced.
      “The English clubs tried to do something, but they were being told they were killing football. But there is no other solution than the Super League.”
      And, despite everything, Perez insists that the European Super League would’ve SAVED football despite creating a cartel of big clubs guaranteed extra money and entry every year.
      A big guy wears a big suit, a small guy wears a small suit. Everyone has to be comfortable with the suit they wear.Florentino Perez
      He claimed: “It cannot be that in England, the six lose money, and 14 make money. In Spain the top three lose money, and the others make money. It cannot continue – at the moment the rich are those who are losing money.
      “This is a pyramid, and the money runs down, there would be money for everyone. If Nadal plays Federer, everyone watches, if Nadal plays the number 80 in the world, nobody watches.
      “Football is maintained by the biggest clubs – it always has been. Cristiano vs Messi was great, not just for Madrid and Barca, but for Spanish football, and football in general.

      “There are games that nobody watches – the truth is I struggle to watch them. In Spain, in England, in Italy.
      “In general, there will not be big transfers this summer. When money does not flow from the rich clubs to the poor clubs, everyone suffers.
      “A big guy wears a big suit, a small guy wears a small suit. Everyone has to be comfortable with the suit they wear.
      “And the reality comes from the TV viewer figures. This is not capricious, I am just trying to help.”

      All SIX Premier league ‘giants’ pull out of European Super League as Liverpool, Man Utd and Spurs finally quit More

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      European Super League LIVE: Rangers and Celtic British Super League EXCLUSIVE as Premier League hold talks

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      THE ill-fated European Super League could make way for a British Super League with Rangers and Celtic.SunSport can exclusively reveal that an offer to the Old Firm to join is top of the list of plans being actively discussed for reform of the Premier League.
      We’re bringing you ALL of the twists and turns from this explosive story here.
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below from this developing story…
      GREAT SCOT
      Rangers and Celtic’s rivals are thought likely to back their departure for a British Super League.
      These clubs are said to feel that the Old Firm’s departure would allow them to win the title and have a shot at qualifying for the revamped Champions League.
      Meanwhile a Premier League club source told SunSport: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
      “It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”

      NEW FIRM
      Executives at the Premier League’s top six are keen on an 18-team Premier League, in addition to inviting Celtic and Rangers, writes Martin Lipton.
      A club chief told SunSport: “We have never wavered from the belief that 18 clubs is the only sensible way forward.
      “It is also what Uefa, Fifa and the European Club Association have long called for.”
      However that proposal would likely face stiff resistance from the 14 clubs who teamed up to block the top six’s Super League plans.
      The Premier League would also be interested in introducing an MLS-style playoff system for the British Super League.

      EXCLUSIVE BY NEIL CUSTIS AND RICHARD MORIARTY
      Bruno Fernandes will commit himself to Manchester United — but only if Paul Pogba does the same.
      Fernandes sees Pogba’s future as key if United are going to make up the gap to Manchester City, with the Frenchman out of contract in 2022.
      SunSport revealed on March 10 how the club had approached Fernandes over a new double-your-money five-year contract worth £200,000 a week.
      But he did not want to enter talks until he saw the club’s ambition in the transfer market this summer, with Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho targets.
      Now he wants assurances over Pogba’s future too as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans for an assault on the title next season.
      Bruno Fernandes is waiting to see if Paul Pogba stays at Man Utd before committing himself
      EXCLUSIVE BY MARTIN LIPTON
      Celtic and Rangers are wanted to join a BRITISH League as part of the fall-out of the failed Euro breakaway plot.
      While the Big Six led the humiliating retreat from the Super League debacle, they remain convinced that reform of the Prem is essential.
      Top of the list of plans being actively discussed is an offer to the two Glasgow giants to come south of Hadrian’s Wall.
      Celtic and Rangers would jump at the chance to take a slice of the Prem cake, while their inclusion would also see a spike in interest from fans across the world, sponsors and broadcasters.
      One club source said: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
      “It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”
      Celtic and Rangers are being lined up to join a British league
      FROM SUNSPORT’S KEN LAWRENCE
      Furious fans have refused to accept grovelling European Super League apologies from the billionaire American owners of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
      Powerful supporters group Spirit of Shankly blasted: “These crocodile tears will not wash.
      “We have always asked for honesty, integrity and transparency from club owners FSG, but the arrogance and deception they have shown behind this money-grab is frightening, but not surprising.
      “We have noted John W Henry’s apology, but this PR exercise is too little, too late.
      “Our owners have thrown everyone under the bus, supporters, manager, players and staff, and humiliated themselves through sheer greed and arrogance.
      “This debacle must be a catalyst for real change, not an exercise in damage limitation.
      “We need a fundamental change in football governance, one that is fair for the whole football pyramid, not just the rapacious elite.”
      Football fans have rejected apologies from American owners including John W Henry
      ASTON VILLA 1 MAN CITY 2
      Pep Guardiola’s men are closing in on the Premier League title after a narrow 2-1 win at Villa Park.
      John McGinn put the hosts ahead with just 20 seconds on the clock in dramatic scenes.
      Phil Foden and Rodri then scored to put City 2-1 up before John Stones was sent off in the 44th minute.
      However, Villa failed to capitalise as Matty Cash saw red in the 57th minute, allowing City to hold on for the win.

      RAPH AND READY
      Chelsea have reportedly joined Man Utd in the race for Raphael Varane.
      Bild claims the Real Madrid defender is on Thomas Tuchel’s shortlist as he approaches the final year of his contract.
      The Red Devils have been long-time fans of Varane, believed to be available for £50million.
      But Chelsea have now entered the running and are set to submit an enquiry for the World Cup winner.
      Chelsea will rival Man Utd for Raphael Varane
      BILLY NO MORE
      FC Cologne have announced their iconic goat mascot has had to be put down.
      The legendary Hennes had been at every single home match for an 11-year period until 2019.
      Now he will be laid to rest after the Bundesliga side confirmed the sad news earlier.
      We are going to miss you, Hennes VIII.Our loveable goat, who was #effzeh mascot from 2008 until 2019, had to be put down due to health reasons. He was 14 years old.Rest in peace, Hennes! 😢 ❤ pic.twitter.com/3P77QkujGf— 1. FC Cologne (@fckoeln_en) April 21, 2021

      ERL GREY
      Premier League target Erling Haaland is set to stay at Borussia Dortmund this summer.
      That’s according to sporting director Michael Zorc.
      Haaland has been linked with Man United, Man City and Chelsea after another stunning season in Germany.
      But Zorc is confident Haaland is staying put regardless of whether Dortmund qualify for the Champions League.
      Zorc said: “No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play with us.”
      Borussia Dortmund are confident Erling Haaland will stay put this summer
      EXCLUSIVE BY ANDY DILLON
      Mark Warburton is close to agreeing an improved new deal as a reward for reviving QPR this season.
      Warburton has lifted Rangers into eighth place in the Championship on one of the division’s smallest budgets.
      He is also credited with the development of players such as keeper Timothy Dieng, Lyndon Dykes and winger Eberechi Eze who was sold to Crystal Palace last year for £20 million.
      Talks have been ongoing between Warburton and the club for some time and he is expected to sign new terms shortly.
      He has been at QPR since May 2019 on a rolling one-year deal and is now set to pick up a pay rise as a sign of the club’s appreciation of his work and to cement his future there.
      Warburton had been linked with the vacant England Under-21 job recently but declared he is happy at QPR.
      Mark Warburton is set for a new QPR contract
      EU WHAT?
      The chaos caused by the Super League shambles meant far-reaching changes to the existing European competitions passed by almost unnoticed.
      Uefa rubber-stamped its proposals, backed by national associations, for a major revamp to start from the 2024-25 season and to run for at least nine years.
      Check out the Champions League changes below…
      How the revamped tournament will look
      BROKE THE MALD
      AC Milan director Paolo Maldini has revealed the European Super League plotters were so secretive he knew NOTHING of the plans.
      He said: “I’m the director of AC Milan and I didn’t know anything about the Super League project.
      “I want to say sorry to the fans again. There was confusion.
      “Sport is about dreams and meritocracy: we have to take this as a lesson.
      “I have never been involved in the discussions concerning the Super League.
      “I’ve seen the news on Sunday evening with the statement of the clubs.
      “The owners decided and not me. Despite this, I want to apologise to the fans”.
      AC Milan chief Paolo Maldini claims he was left in the dark over the European Super League
      BIRDS OF A FEATHER
      Sergio Aguero will only sign a two-year deal with Barcelona if close friend Lionel Messi confirms he is staying at the Nou Camp, reports in Spain claim.
      Manchester City’s outgoing record scorer Aguero, 32, is already said to have received a draft contract from Barca.
      But AS say the 32-year-old will not formalise his move unless he knows one-club legend and Argentina team-mate Messi has ‘committed his future’.
      City and Aguero announced a month ago he would leave the Etihad in the summer on a free transfer. 
      FOLLOW ASTON VILLA VS MAN CITY WITH OUR LIVE BLOG
      Barcelona’s hopes of signing Sergio Aguero rest on Lionel Messi’s future
      SPURS 2 SOUTHAMPTON 1
      Son Heung-Min’s late penalty sealed a debut win for interim Tottenham boss Ryan Mason.
      The former Spurs player was placed in charge until the end of the season following Jose Mourinho’s sacking on Monday.
      Tottenham fell behind at home to a goal from Danny Ings, reported to have been a major target for Mourinho this summer.
      But the Londoners got back on track thanks to a delightfully curled goal from Gareth Bale.
      Sergio Reguilon was then brought down in the box late on, with Son stepping up to fire in Spurs’ winner.

      PS-GLEE
      PSG chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been named the new European Club Association chairman.
      He takes over from Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, one of the European Super League ringleaders.
      Agnelli resigned from the post after Sunday’s controversial announcement.
      And Al-Khelaifi has been voted in as the man to replace him.
      Breaking: Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi appointed chairman of European Club Association – replacing Andrea Agnelli who quit on Sunday— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) April 21, 2021

      CLAUD NEIN
      Claudio Ranieri has launched a scathing attack on the European Super League – insisting a similar competition would have excluded his title-winning Leicester side.
      Slamming the Premier League clubs who signed up, he said: “My Leicester team would have not played in Europe under such a system. 
      “It would have been a glaring injustice, and an insult to the values of sport.
      “These people must be kidding us. We finished first in the richest and most competitive league in the world.
      “But this European league would have told us: ‘Sorry, you can’t come in – you don’t have the right CV.’
      “It is madness, and a betrayal of one of the basic fundamentals of sport – meritocracy.
      “The beauty of football lies in the fact that the poorest clubs can always beat the stronger ones.”
      Claudio Ranieri has slammed the Prem’s Big Six over the European Super League
      RAM RAID
      European Super League plotter Florentino Perez admits Man Utd target Sergio Ramos could leave Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer.
      Perez explained: “I love him very much, but we are in a very bad situation. We have to be realistic.
      “I did not say that Ramos is not going to continue. We are thinking about finishing this season, then we will see what happens.
      “A lot of things can happen. First we are going to finish this season. We are talking to many players and many are voluntarily lowering their salary.
      “Some have already lowered it, specifically the two who have left, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard. 
      “Last year Ramos accepted. This year he is in a different situation.”
      Real Madrid admit Man Utd-linked Sergio Ramos could leave this summer
      WRITE AND WRONG
      Tottenham still listed Jose Mourinho as manager in their match programme for today’s clash with Southampton.
      That’s despite him being sacked on Monday and replaced by Ryan Mason!
      Former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri is favourite to replace the Special One.
      But Mourinho’s name lives on at Tottenham – on paper, anyway.
      FOLLOW SPURS VS SAINTS WITH OUR LIVE MATCH BLOG
      Jose Mourinho was named in Spurs’ programme against Southampton despite being sacked
      WHERE THERE’S A WILL
      Prince William has had his say after England’s ‘Top Six’ withdrew from the European Super League.
      The Duke of Cambridge, who previously expressed concern at the plans, tweeted: “I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to.
      “It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels.
      “As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work.”
      I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to. It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels. As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work. W— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) April 21, 2021

      SPUR OF THE MOMENT
      Raging Tottenham fans have protested outside their stadium with banners calling for Daniel Levy to leave the club.
      Supporters descended on the north London arena ahead of tonight’s game against Southampton.
      Fans held ‘Levy Out’ banners and also want owners, ENIC International Limited, to follow out the door.
      FOLLOW SPURS VS SAINTS WITH OUR LIVE MATCH BLOG
      Spurs fans demanded Daniel Levy leave the club this evening
      Supporters descended on their stadium ahead of the game with Southampton
      Fans are fuming about the European Super League
      RON NOT ON WAY
      Man United legend Cristiano Ronaldo will not be returning to Real Madrid from Juventus, according to disgraced Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
      He said: “They are very good players. Lionel Messi and Cristiano. It’s a historical thing.
      “Cristiano’s return? No. He has a contract with Juventus. 
      “But it doesn’t make sense for him to come back. I love him a lot, he has given us a lot.”
      Real Madrid are not looking to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo
      BLUE DEMANDS
      Chairman Bruce Buck and chief executive Guy Laurence have been told to resign by Chelsea Supporters’ Trust after withdrawing from the planned European Super League.
      A statement read: “The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust is appalled with the tone and insincerity of the statement issued by CFC today. 
      “We request a full and in-depth explanation as to why the board took the decision to turn their back on the European competition and for CFC to explain why they signed up to the Super League without prior consultation with their loyal supporters.
      “We are disappointed that an apology has not been included in the statement. The legacy of our club was put at risk for what appears to have been solely for financial gain.
      “The CST presently have little or no confidence in our current leadership at board level. On Monday, Bruce Buck extensively defended CFC’s plan to remain in the Super League at a fans’ forum meeting.
      “Buck, alongside Laurence, appears to have given no consideration towards the loyal supporters, so their positions would seem untenable moving forward.
      “Our relations with CFC will remain frayed until we have a better understanding of why this decision happened and we are assured that change and safeguards are put in place.
      “The CST will not rest until we are comfortable that change and protections are put in place, because 116 years of history was jeopardised. This is our club and will remain our club.”
      Guy Laurence and Bruce Buck are under fire from the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust
      GLAZE OVER
      Man Utd chief Joel Glazer has written an apology letter to fans over the disastrous European Super League.
      It read: “We got it wrong and we want to show that we can put things right.
      “Although the wounds are raw and it will take time for the scars to heal, I am personally committed to rebuilding trust with our fans and learning from the message you delivered with such conviction.
      “In seeking to create a more stable foundation for the game, we failed to show enough respect for its deep-rooted traditions and for that we are sorry.
      “This is the world’s greatest football club and we apologise unreservedly for the unrest caused during these past few days.”
      Joel Glazer has apologised for the European Super League plans
      SUMMER LOVIN’
      Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly in talks to battle it out in two pre-season friendlies this summer.
      Due to the coronavirus pandemic, both teams could miss out on playing abroad if travel restrictions remain in place.
      And according to the Mirror, United and Liverpool are in negotiations over staging lucrative friendlies ahead of the 2021-2022 season.
      They claim that a first meeting could take place at Old Trafford in late July, before Anfield hosts the second clash in early August.
      It has also been suggested that the games could be used as test events for capacity crowds ahead of the new Premier League campaign which starts on August 14.
      Man Utd and Liverpool could play each other twice in pre-season friendlies this summer
      NEW START
      Arsenal fans are desperate for Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to buy the club following Stan Kroenke’s involvement in the disastrous European Super League.
      The magnate, worth £8.3billion, invested in an oil refinery and claimed it would be operational this year, allowing him to focus on new projects which could include buying Arsenal.
      Dangote said in January 2020: “It is a team that yes, I would like to buy some day.
      “I’m trying to finish building the company and then after we finish, maybe some time in 2021, we can.
      “I’m not buying Arsenal right now, I’m buying Arsenal when I finish all these projects because I’m trying to take the company to the next level.”
      aliko dangote please take over Arsenal now @Arsenal ! 😭😭— M.Richards ⭐️ (@MarcusDashing) April 21, 2021

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      in Soccer

      World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst hails fans for stopping hated European Super League

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      THREE Lions legend Sir Geoff Hurst last night hailed fans for their role in stopping the hated Super League, saying: “They saved football.”But the 1966 World Cup hat-trick hero warned the “Big Six” had tarnished English football around the globe.
      World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst hails fans for stopping the hated European Super LeagueCredit: Rex
      Sir Geoff told The Sun: “What these clubs tried to do was an absolute disgrace and thank God it’s been stopped.
      “The Mickey Mouse league they were trying to set up was diabolical and disgusting.
      “I haven’t spoken to a single fan, young or old, this week who backed it.
      “If it wasn’t for the fans coming out and making it clear what they thought the game would have died.
      “We had Manchester United fans standing shoulder to shoulder with Liverpool supporters. Arsenal and Spurs fans were agreeing.
      “I’ve never seen anything like it!
      “But God bless every one of them – they’ve saved football and showed they are the best fans in the world.”
      Sir Geoff, 79, said his 1966 pals would be “turning their graves” over greedy foreign owners trying to hijack our national game.
      He added: “One of the greatest things about that team back then was how we all came from different clubs, some near the top of the League, others nowhere near it.
      Chelsea fans celebrate after the club announced it would be withdrawing from the European Super LeagueCredit: Getty
      Sir Geoff said the owners of the Big Six now needed to grovel to the fans they tried to betrayCredit: Splash
      Sir Geoff said his 1966 pals would be ‘turning in their graves’ over greedy foreign owners trying to hijack our national gameCredit: AFP

      “But we still combined to become a team, create history and do something truly amazing. That’s what makes football so special.
      “I know Bobby Moore for one would be turning in his grave.
      “That League went against everything he stood for and everything believed in as a man and a footballer.
      “And I suspect the likes of Jack Charlton and Nobby Stiles, who were never afraid to voice their opinions, would be saying the same as I am today.”
      Sir Geoff said the owners of the Big Six now needed to grovel to the fans they tried to betray.
      He said: “They need to apologise to the fans and to the players who were dragged into this. I was pleased to see so many of the footballers speaking out about it.
      “Players have a lot more influence now than back in my day.
      A statement released by the European Super League claimed the tournament will ‘reshape’ and go ahead

      “They are on social media and have millions of followers.
      “Kids around the world look up to these guys and when they were coming and saying, ‘We’re not standing for this’ the owners must have realised the game was up.
      “Now they need to say sorry and start trying to put right the damage they have done to our game.
      “If they’re not willing to do that they should clear off.”
      What happens now the European Super League has collapsed More