Now Richard Masters, the Premier League’s chief executive, has reiterated their opposition to exporting matches overseas. He absolutely doesn’t regret it. This declaration is in reaction to La Liga’s proposal for a supposed 39th game. The proposal addressed the need for the league to grow its potential revenue base and increase fan engagement on a global scale.
In the wake of this most recent move, Masters was clear in a statement that the Premier League still proudly values its competitive balance and heritage. He reiterated his opposition to any proposals for the 39th game to be played outside the United Kingdom. As the football community has begun to react to the concept, the response has been sharply divided. It has not been welcomed well by Premier League executives.
The idea of a 39th game was floated even as a way of adding to the league’s international attractiveness. Supporters claimed that hosting extra games abroad would help reach new fans and bring in millions of dollars. Masters clarified that the focus would remain on preserving the integrity and heritage of the league rather than exploring foreign venues for additional matches.
La Liga’s proposal was to mirror the success of other professional sports that have hosted events overseas with great success. Masters did reiterate that the Premier League’s unique competitive balance and structure should be foremost. He stated that if changes are made, they would require bold consideration. Above all, we must think about the impact on clubs, players and fans.
Even with the global expansion over the last decade, the Premier League has remained focused on the domestic fan and traditions. Masters re-iterated that the league owes its success to its avid supporters across the country. He insisted that they’re not willing to trade in these values while pursuing far-off profits from proposed friendlies abroad.
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