Last Friday, the routes of the European competitions were determined on the way to the finals in Istanbul, Budapest and Prague. And this time there will be “different” candidates in all tournaments. In the Champions League there will most likely be an Italian team. In the Europa League, Roma or Feyenoord or Bayer Leverkusen or Union Saint-Gilloise have the opportunity to win the trophy. And in the Conference League, the diversity of candidates is absolutely absolute. What happened to the English?
If it is supposed to have the best league in the world, the best economic capacity and the best teams, then how is it possible that the Italian league has more representatives than the Premier League (six and four respectively) in Europe? Let’s analyze this event.
In the Champions League, Tottenham were defeated by Milan, in an aphasic draw, and Liverpool were knocked out by a bang against Real Madrid. Arsenal also lost to Sporting de Portugal in the Europa League on penalties. Aside from the Reds crossover, the other two teams had enough rosters and favoritism to make it to the next round and they didn’t.
Looking at the Spurs and Gunners’ most recent transfers and current salaries relative to the teams they’ve beaten, it’s easy to say going out is a complete bust. Although it should also be noted that both teams have their own objectives in the local league. Arteta’s men have a unique chance to win the Premier League. And the Lillywhites are in danger of losing fourth place and the Champions League next season. So the question is: is it really worth it for English teams to try their best to stay in Europe?
In England a gruesome battle is raging to reach the top 4. This year, Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United have all but secured their place in the next European Cup. But what happens to Tottenham, Chelsea and Liverpool if they don’t take that precious fourth place? Which players will they be able to sign (or not) without playing in the Champions League? And the problem is chronic. Because without getting access this year, it will be even more difficult next season. And if that wasn’t enough, this year there are outsiders such as Newcastle United or Brighton&Hove Albion who also want to make their dream come true.
The reality is that if English teams have no real chance of winning the title in Europe (as is the case with West Ham United with the Conference League), they will give up trying all their tricks to reach the final rounds. It is more important to guarantee the best place in the competition for the best future in the short and medium term. Without going any further, Arsenal’s 11 against Sporting had several rotations from the usual 11 in the Premier League.
And there are more. In the Champions League, there are two aupa crosses for the two English teams. Chelsea will take on the almighty Real Madrid and Manchester City Bayern Munich. In the Europa League, Manchester United has a delicate path against Sevilla and its mystique about the competition and possibly a scary semi-final against Juventus in Turin or Sporting, who knocked out the Premier League leader.
England brings together the eyes of the world every weekend with the best league tournament. But when it comes down to it in Europe, things are back in line with the rest. Three English teams failed to beat Real Madrid last year. And this year Italy leads on the right with more participants. Premier League rules, yes. But do they really command their teams?
Juan Yague
Source: Goal