Former Arsenal Manager Unai Emery Speaks On New European Super League Plans

 

Ex-Arsenal boss Unai Emery has weighed in on the “war for the control of football” that is threatening to break out after the unveiling of the new Super League, insisting the proposal is “very risky” and could remove the “essence” of the game.

Plans for a new 20-team competition to rival the Champions League were announced on Sunday, sparking widespread anger and condemnation from supporters of the clubs involved.

Arsenal, who were coached by Emery between 2018 and 2019, have been named as one of the 12 founding clubs, and their former manager has now added his voice to a growing list of high profile figures criticising the possible breakaway.

The Villarreal tactician is set to come up against Arsenal for the first time since being relieved of his duties at Emirates Stadium in the Europa League semi-finals next week.

Emery has made his stance on the Super League clear ahead of that clash, telling a press conference:

“This is a war for the control of football.

“The clubs have rebelled against control of UEFA.

“My position, in principle, is that I’m against it. It’s very risky for football and its essence.”