Premier League Withdraws from International Match Expansion
The Premier League’s interest in playing matches abroad, with the aim of increasing its global reach, has “disappeared” since the idea of a 39th matchday outside of England was proposed in 2008, according to statements by the league’s chief executive, Richard Masters.
Meanwhile, LaLiga from Spain and the Italian Serie A are taking steps to hold a league match in the United States and Australia, respectively, next season, seeking greater exposure.
However, Masters believes that the Premier League has achieved its globalization through other means.
The possible match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami.
Real Madrid’s opposition to this match.
The approval of the Italian federation for a match between AC Milan and Como in Australia.
“If new proposals to play Spanish and Italian matches abroad are carried out, our opinion on matches abroad has not changed,” Masters told Sky Sports News on Wednesday.
“We analyzed the possibility of a 39th game a long time ago, with a lot of controversy. I remember it very well.”
“Our goal at that time, when thinking about it, was to help grow the Premier League worldwide.”The Premier League organized the Summer Series in the United States during the preseason.
“And we have been able to do it through different means, through brilliant broadcasting partnerships, digital technology, investing in other areas, such as the Summer Series tournament that we just held in the United States, and now the Premier League is a truly global league.”
“There are billions of people who will tune in over the next nine months to watch the Premier League action. So we have achieved that goal by different means, that need has disappeared.”
Villarreal and Barcelona are interested in playing their scheduled match before Christmas in Miami.
The Spanish football federation has given its approval, but will also require the approval of the European confederation UEFA and the North American confederation Concacaf. It is understood that UEFA has not yet received a request.
The fan groups of both clubs have protested, as has Real Madrid, which has insisted that authorization be requested from all teams in the top Spanish category before giving the go-ahead.
The plan of AC Milan and Como to play a Serie A match in Australia in February has the approval of the Italian federation, but is still being reviewed by the Football Federation Australia.
