A few hours after Barcelona and Real Madrid almost jubilantly received the verdict of the European Court of Justice, Atlético Madrid, the third Spanish participant in the original Super League, has also responded. However, the tone of Los Rojiblancos is almost one hundred and eighty degrees different from that of their two rivals.
Atlético Madrid's strong stance against the Super League marks a significant divergence from their initial position and from that of their Spanish counterparts, Real Madrid and Barcelona.
In their detailed statement, Atlético outlines several key reasons behind their decision to move away from the controversial Super League project.
Firstly, Atlético Madrid highlights the relevance of the updated UEFA statutes, which were amended in June 2022. This amendment implies that the framework used to justify the Super League's creation is outdated and no longer applicable under the current regulatory environment. This point underscores Atlético's commitment to adhering to the evolving landscape of football governance.
Secondly, the club brings attention to the partnership between the European Club Association (ECA) and UEFA. This collaboration, Atlético argues, effectively dismantles the notion that UEFA operates as a monopoly in European football. By emphasizing this partnership, Atlético Madrid is aligning itself with a broader coalition of clubs committed to maintaining a more inclusive and cooperative model for European football.
Further elaborating on this point, Atlético Madrid points out the significant role clubs within the ECA play in decision-making processes, particularly concerning the distribution of income from sponsorships and television rights, as well as in shaping the formats of various competitions. This involvement provides clubs with a substantial say in the operations of European football, contradicting the argument that clubs need a separate entity like the Super League to have a significant influence.
The club's statement culminates in a powerful conclusion that reflects a widespread sentiment across European football. Atlético Madrid asserts that the broader football community, including major footballing nations like Germany, France, England, and Italy, along with the majority of Spanish clubs, are opposed to the Super League. This opposition is rooted in a desire to safeguard the heritage and integrity of national competitions and the principles of merit-based qualification for European tournaments.
Atlético Madrid's decision to officially withdraw from the Super League, a plan that faltered upon its announcement in April 2021, signifies a crucial shift. This move not only aligns Atlético with the majority of European clubs who support the current competitive structure but also reflects the club's responsiveness to the wider football community's sentiments. It is a clear message of solidarity with the established European football system and an acknowledgment of the importance of preserving the traditions and competitive nature of both national and continental football.
