Arteta and Solskjaer dodge European Super League questions after Gary Neville slams clubs for ‘criminal’ breakaway plans
MANAGERS Mikel Arteta and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have avoided answering questions on the European Super League proposals.
Both Manchester United and Arsenal are alleged to have signed up, a move that has been criticised by many – including Gary Neville.
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was not interested in discussing the European Super League[/caption] And neither was Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta[/caption]It was reported earlier today that English football’s ‘big six’ clubs – United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City – have agreed to join the new competition.
European Super League clubs could receive an initial payment of £310MILLION for signing up, plus a minimum of £130m each season – if rumours are to be believed.
Speaking after United’s 3-1 win against Burnley, Solskjaer said: “I’ve seen this morning the news and speculation. I can’t really say too much because my focus has been on this game.
“I haven’t looked into it, I’ve just been focused on this game so I need to sit down and see what it is.”
Arteta, speaking after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham, also remained quiet, saying: “I don’t know anything about it.
“Once I know every detail and have all the information then I can evaluate the situation and give you my opinion.”
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The proposals have been condemned by the wider footballing community, with Neville – a co-owner of League Two side Salford City – calling it a ‘joke’ and a ‘disgrace’.
Gary Lineker, meanwhile, tweeted: “Sense this Super League plot will die on its preposterous and avaricious a**e.”
And the Premier League have issued a statement, saying a European Super League would ‘undermine the appeal of the whole game’.
Both Uefa and Fifa have threatened to ban rebel clubs and their players from competing in existing major tournaments, such as the World Cup.
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Reports suggest Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus will join the ‘big six’ to create the 12-club league.
Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are believed to have REJECTED an invitation to join.
Some reports claim the European Super League will be officially announced this evening.
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