The TelegraphRevealed: Big Six senior executives left in dark before chaotic launch of Super League
Doublespeak special: What clubs said about pulling out of the Super League — and what they meant A senior executive of one of the 'Big Six' believed on Saturday morning his club was set to agree to Champions League reforms rather than be part of the proposed European Super League. In news that illustrates the chaos surrounding the failed launch of the breakaway it can be revealed that momentum for the now-aborted ESL began little more than 24 hours before the first reports of its existence emerged. Until that stage Juventus president Andrea Agnelli appears to have discussed the proposals directly with club owners and without the knowledge of some of the senior executives involved even though they would have to try and implement it. Agnelli along with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Liverpool owner John W Henry and Manchester United’s Joel Glazer were the main driving forces behind the formation of the breakaway. All four took up roles when it was announced on Sunday night. The rush would help explain how ill-thought through the launch of the ESL was, with a formal announcement after 11pm, and how poorly it was dealt with from a public relations point of view. It was in keeping with its poor conception that it fell apart less than 48 hours after it was announced with clubs relenting under the backlash from fans, players, their own staff, the media and authorities including the UK Government.
Evening StandardWillian planning Arsenal trophy success as he reveals desire to play in the United States
Willian is intent on winning trophies at Arsenal and wants to play at next year’s World Cup with Brazil. Willian has struggled since moving to Emirates Stadium, but he has said he is committed to honouring the final two years of his deal. “Well my plan is to stay at Arsenal, I have a contract here, and to win trophies,” said Willian.
PA Media: Sport‘I’ve let you down and I’m sorry’ – John W Henry apologises to Liverpool fans
The Reds announced on Tuesday night, along with the other five English clubs involved, that they were withdrawing from the European Super League.
