8 Potential Game Changers For Football In The Near Future
2. Games Played Abroad
As is often the case in football, when an idea is put forward of how to revamp, reenergise or rethink how football is played or structured, all roads lead to money (not Rome).
These money-making schemes are sheep in wolves clothing-esque ideas, often posited by FIFA or a European powerhouse. Since 2008 discussions have taken place of whether the Premier League in the vein of pre-season tournaments such as the Premier League Asia Trophy, could host an extra round of fixtures that would take place in a neutral venue outside of England. Former Premier League chief Richard Scudamore supported the proposition citing the apparent benefit to clubs that a 39th game, would “consolidate the Premier Leagues global position”.
The idea has divided Premier League clubs, but fans have bemoaned the idea, with the cost of travel detrimental to fans. As a result, Relevent Sport (organisers of the International Champions Cup) have floated the idea to La Liga, furthering the rift between the league and the Spanish football federation. The idea gained more traction in Spain but has yet to be realised.
Given the potentially long-term travel restrictions for Covid-19, it seems unlikely that a gratuitous ‘Game 39’ will occur any time soon. But with the globalisation of football, leagues as we know them may have to globalise to meet demand.
The question is how many New Yorkers want to watch Burnley vs Brighton in the flesh?