Real Madrid asks 6 clubs for money to cover European Super League costs

Real Madrid wants contributions toward the setup costs of the European Super League, which collapsed within a few days in 2021. In a statement to Reuters, the Spanish club confirmed that it has requested payments from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

According to The Athletic, the total setup cost may reach 80 million euros (89.9 million dollars). Real Madrid argues that these expenses have so far been covered by itself, Barcelona and Juventus, and that the six English clubs should pay their share.

It is unclear whether AC Milan, Inter and Atletico Madrid have also been asked for money. Real Madrid made no comment on this. Tottenham declined to comment, and the other five clubs did not immediately respond to Reuters' questions.

The Athletic reported that the clubs signed a shareholders' agreement for the holding company that was to run the project. However, it is not clear whether the agreement explicitly states who is responsible for the setup costs.

The European Super League was announced by 12 clubs in April 2021. After a backlash from fans, governing bodies and politicians, nine clubs withdrew within three days. Juventus later left the project as well, while Barcelona formally withdrew in February. Real Madrid became the only founding club remaining. On 11 February, Real Madrid, UEFA and the European Football Clubs announced a principles agreement aimed at resolving legal disputes.