European Super League, a proposed splinter European tournament, has issued a reassurance saying the project will be modified to accommodate the entertainment needs of the fans and the financial obligations of the clubs.

Just hours after English clubs, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal announced their withdrawal from the controversial proposed competition; the ESL has rubbished claims that it is founded on financial pursuit and not passion for sports.

According to a statement shared by British sports journalist Nizaar Kinsella, the ESL leadership argues that the current European championships do not work. However, the statement does not give more detailed explanations on why the ESL would offer a different thrill to the current Uefa Champions League and Europa League.

‘‘We are proposing a new European competition because the existing system does not work. Our proposal is aimed at allowing the sport (football) to evolve while generating resources and stability for the full football pyramid, including helping to overcome the financial difficulties experienced by the entire football community as a result of the pandemic,’’ the statement notes in part.

And even with the withdrawal of English clubs who bowed to pressure the ESL remains unfazed that the idea is not misplaced.

‘‘Despite the announced departure by English clubs, forced to take such decisions due to the pressure put on them, we are convinced our proposal is fully aligned with the European Law as was demonstrated by a court decision to protect the Super League from third party actions,’’ the statement added.

The leadership of the project said it will not drop the guard but will explore changes and make the project ensure financial support for the community and clubs as well as entertain the fans.

Backlash

The proposal was announced on Saturday April 17, where it emerged that top six English clubs, encompassing Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspurs and Arsenal had signed up alongside Juventus, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as the founders.

But the move sparked outrage from FIFA, Uefa and English FA. The trio ganged up to shoot down the project, marshalling the support of club fan base. On Tuesday, Chelsea supporters converged outside Stamford Bridge as they engaged in protest calling on their club to withdraw.

Before that, Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson called a meeting with his colleagues where they unanimously resolved to denounce the proposed competition.

Also, Uefa and FIFA had threatened bans for the clubs and players who would compete in the tournament.