No Plans for Premier League Games Abroad: Masters

19 hours ago

Premier League CEO Richard Masters has firmly stated there are no current plans to stage top-flight matches overseas, describing the concept as "not anywhere near my in-tray." This declaration comes as other European leagues explore international fixtures.

European Leagues Pushing for Overseas Matches

Recent weeks have seen significant developments in international football expansion:

Spain's La Liga plans to host Barcelona vs Villarreal in Miami this December
Italy's Serie A proposes AC Milan vs Como in Perth for February 2025

These initiatives follow successful overseas exhibitions of domestic cup competitions like the Italian Super Cup and Spanish Super Cup in recent years.

Premier League's Historical Stance

The English top flight previously considered an international "39th game" in 2008, but shelved plans after fan and media backlash. While former CEO Richard Scudamore expressed club interest a decade ago, Masters maintains the current position:

"I don't think it changes the Premier League's view on this at all. We don't have any plans to play matches abroad. It's not a debate around our table."

Ownership Influence and Diverging Views

With 11 US-owned clubs in the Premier League (approaching the 14 needed for rule changes), opinions vary:

Liverpool's Tom Werner has advocated for matches in New York, Tokyo, and other global cities
Bournemouth's Bill Foley opposes international league fixtures

Alternative Global Expansion Strategies

Masters highlighted the league's successful international growth through:

Digital platforms and broadcast partnerships
Events like the Premier League Summer Series in the US

He noted: "The necessity that was driving that [39th game] concept has dissipated."

Looking Ahead to 2025-26 Season

The new campaign kicks off with Liverpool hosting Bournemouth, with Masters anticipating "a great season." In his BBC Sport interview, he also addressed: