Plans for an independent regulator to stop clubs in England from joining breakaway leagues have been confirmed by the UK Government.
In April 2021, the Premier League's Big Six - Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Manchester City - announced that they had signed up to the European Super League alongside six other top European clubs.
However, the tournament was met with fierce backlash from players, pundits and fans alike, with numerous protests against owners being held outside stadiums.
Each member of the Premier League's Big Six slowly dropped out one by one as a result of the scathing response, while Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and AC Milan also withdrew.
Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona remain committed to the doomed project, and fresh plans were revealed for an 80-team competition earlier this month, which have also been met with a negative reaction.
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The ESL farce led to a fan-led review which recommended an independent regulator, and the Government has confirmed that blocking teams from joining breakaway competitions will be part of the new initiative.
Further aims of the regulator will be to conduct stricter tests for owners and directors, with the aim of avoiding the financial crises of Bury, Macclesfield Town and Derby County.
The licensing system will run from the Premier League down to the National League, and fans will have a greater say on club badges and home kits, which cannot be changed by owners without supporter approval.
After announcing the launch of the independent regulator, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in a statement that the move would put fans back at the "heart of football".
"Since its inception over 165 years ago, English football has been bringing people together, providing a source of pride for communities and inspiration to millions of fans across the country," the Prime Minister said.
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"Yet despite the success of the sport both at home and abroad, we know that there are real challenges which threaten the stability of clubs both big and small.
"These bold new plans will put fans back at the heart of football, protect the rich heritage and traditions of our much-loved clubs and safeguard the beautiful game for future generations."
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer added: "I know how much football means to this country, and I want to see the domestic league continue its incredible success at home and abroad. So today we are stepping in to secure the long-term future of the national game and put fans right back at the heart of how football is run.
"Our plans will ensure that clubs manage their finances in a responsible way, and prevent unscrupulous owners from treating clubs as expendable commodities rather than the beloved community assets that they are.
"This is about protecting the beautiful game, making sure we remain home to the strongest league in the world, and safeguarding clubs big and small across the country."
Numerous lower-league clubs have expressed their support for the independent regulator, although the Premier League is reportedly fearful that potential investors could be put off in future.
Ben Knapton
