12 of world soccer's biggest and richest clubs announced Sunday they've formed a breakaway European "Super League" — with clubs Manchester United, Liverpool, Barcelona Real Madrid, Juventus and A.C. Milan among those to sign up.
Details: So far the breakaway league that's due to start in August consists of six clubs from England, three from Spain and three from Italy.
What they're saying: "The formation of the Super League comes at a time when the global pandemic has accelerated the instability in the existing European football economic model," according to a joint statement from the clubs.
- "The pandemic has shown that a strategic vision and a sustainable commercial approach are required to enhance value and support for the benefit of the entire European football pyramid.
For the record: The clubs to sign up to the breakaway league so far are: AC Milan, Arsenal FC, Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea FC, FC Barcelona, FC Internazionale Milano, Juventus FC, Liverpool FC, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid CF and Tottenham Hotspur.
- "It is anticipated that a further three clubs will join ahead of the inaugural season, which is intended to commence as soon as practicable," per the satetment.
Editor's note: This a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
