Football News Update: Euro 2024, Champions League, and More
As we approach the 2023/24 football season, the landscape of the beautiful game is experiencing a significant shift, with a growing American influence in English and Welsh clubs.
According to recent reports, by Christmas 2023, 22 out of the 72 teams in the EFL had some level of American investment, ranging from full ownership to minority stakeholdings. This trend has continued, with the recent sale of West Bromwich Albion to Shilen Patel, a Florida-based multi-millionaire.
One of the key triggers for this American interest was the high-profile purchase of Wrexham by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2021. The duo has helped the north Wales-based club achieve two promotions, showcasing the potential for growth and success under American ownership.
“This growing American involvement has also led to some controversial proposals.”
However, this growing American involvement has also led to some controversial proposals. Birmingham City, owned by American investors, recently asked the EFL if they could play their home game against Wrexham in the 2024/25 League One campaign in the United States. Fortunately, the EFL promptly rejected this idea, recognizing the potential damage it could have on the integrity and tradition of English football.
The EFL’s decision is a welcomed one, as playing competitive matches abroad could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to a dilution of the association between English and Welsh football and their respective home countries. While pre-season games abroad are acceptable, the prospect of charging season ticket holders hundreds of pounds per season, only to have home games played thousands of miles away, is seen as disrespectful and detrimental to the loyal fan base.
As the 2023/24 season approaches, football enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling Euro 2024 campaign, the highly anticipated Champions League and FIFA World Cup competitions, as well as the ongoing action in the Premier League, EFL Cup, EFL Championship, EFL One, EFL Two, and FA Cup. The Women’s World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations will also be closely followed by avid fans.
The increased American involvement in English and Welsh football is certainly an intriguing development, but the EFL’s rejection of Birmingham’s proposal serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the traditions and integrity of the game.
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