Madrid, Barca, Juventus risk two-year ban as UEFA begins probe into ESL plot

Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus could be expelled from the Champions League for two years as UEFA begins a formal disciplinary probe into the failed European Super League (ESL) plot.

According to Sky Sports, the three clubs risk a two-season Champions League ban except they withdraw from the widely denounced league and sign a settlement agreement with the European football’s governing body.

In a statement on Wednesday, UEFA said it has appointed inspectors to look into the disciplinary cases against Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus in connection with the breakaway league.

“In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors have today been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of UEFA’s legal framework by Real Madrid CF, FC Barcelona and Juventus FC in connection with the so-called ‘Super League’ project,” the statement read.

“Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course,” the statement read.

The development comes a few days after the Italian football federation (FIGC) warned that Juventus could be expelled from Serie A if the club refuses to renounce its ESL membership.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus are the only teams persisting with the plans out of the 12 “founding clubs”.

Last Saturday, the trio had kicked against the “intolerable pressure and threats from UEFA” to abandon the idea while vowing to “persevere” with the project despite its complete proscription.

The ESL began falling apart less than 72 hours after its formation, with all the English “big six”—Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur— pulling out after pressure from fans and government officials.

The Italian duo of Inter Milan and AC Milan followed immediately as Atletico Madrid became the only Spanish side to leave the widely denounced league.