European Super League backers are ‘detached’ from real football, says Ange Postecoglou
Tottenham head coach Ange Postecoglou has criticized the backers of the proposed European Super League, stating that they are detached from the real footballing world. He expressed his support for the power to the people dynamic that brought down the initial iteration of the Super League proposal. The new plans for a Super League were announced shortly after a European High Court ruling claimed that FIFA and UEFA had abused a dominant position in their treatment of the clubs involved in the initial breakaway competition in April 2021.
However, the latest proposal quickly lost momentum as each of the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ clubs distanced themselves from it. Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United were all initially involved in the Super League plot 32 months ago, but withdrew due to vehement protests from supporters and condemnation from influential figures such as Prince William and the then-Prime Minister.
Postecoglou, who was managing Japanese club Yokohama F. Marinos at the time of the failed Super League proposal, praised the fans’ role in its downfall, saying, I love the fact that [it was] ‘power to the people’. It’s good that people still have a voice. That’s what life is all about. It was great. He further highlighted the disconnect between the decision-makers and the reality of the football world. I often think these decisions are made in a room with some people who are fairly detached from what the real footballing world is about, he stated.
The Tottenham coach emphasized the importance of fans in the game, particularly in light of the difficulties faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. He argued that without spectators, the product was significantly diminished, stating, You’re struggling for anything. It was still being shown on TV but no one can tell me it was the same product. Postecoglou also expressed his hope that decision-makers would consider the opinions and feelings of those most important to the game before implementing any new proposals.
Despite his conservative and traditionalist views in regard to making changes to football, Postecoglou acknowledged the inevitability of progress. However, he cautioned against prioritizing numbers and urged a comprehensive consideration of all factors. Any idea that comes down to numbers in our game where there is so much investment and emotional attachment is always going to struggle to get up, he remarked.
The Tottenham head coach also voiced concerns over the saturation of football competitions and its impact on player welfare and performance. With FIFA’s recent announcement of an expanded Club World Cup, Postecoglou worried that the increased demands on players would ultimately lead to deteriorating performances and more injuries. He argued that prioritizing the wishes of fans and maintaining the quality of the product should be paramount.
In conclusion, Ange Postecoglou’s comments shed light on his perspective regarding the proposed European Super League and the importance of considering the opinions and needs of fans and players. The episode serves as a reminder of the power of public opinion and the significance of maintaining the integrity and tradition of the sport.