Premier League CEO Richard Masters has firmly rejected proposals to host competitive matches outside England, stating such plans are "not anywhere near my in-tray." This stance comes as Italy's Serie A and Spain's La Liga pursue fixtures in Australia and the United States respectively.
International Ambitions Elsewhere
While Barcelona and Villarreal prepare for a potential Miami showdown in December, and AC Milan may face Como in Perth next February, Masters emphasized the Premier League's commitment to domestic fixtures. "We don't have any plans to play matches abroad," he told BBC Sport.
"The necessity that was driving that concept [of overseas games] has dissipated through digital growth and events like our US summer series."
Historical Context and Current Stance
The league previously considered a controversial "39th game" proposal in 2008 before abandoning it due to fan backlash. Though Liverpool's American chairman Tom Werner recently expressed interest in global fixtures, Masters noted significant opposition exists among club owners.
Financial Landscape and Regulations
The interview also covered Premier League spending, with clubs surpassing £2bn in transfer market activity this window. Masters defended the expenditures, stating: "Investment in squads is generally good so long as everyone stays within the rules."
- Liverpool lead spending with £250m+ investments
- Chelsea and Manchester United follow closely
- Profitability rules remain flexible for women's team sales
Addressing Controversies
Masters expressed confidence in Arsenal's handling of the Thomas Partey situation, stating: "I have to be comfortable with how clubs manage these matters." The Ghanaian midfielder recently joined Villarreal after facing sexual assault charges in the UK, which he denies.
As the new season kicks off, Masters predicts "a great season" while the league monitors impacts of the expanded Club World Cup on participating English clubs.
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