Football News

Premier League chief Richard Masters has hinted at the possibility of English top-flight matches being played overseas, although he insists it's not currently on the agenda.

FIFA is reviewing its stance on domestic games being held in foreign territories, a move that has previously been off-limits. La Liga boss Javier Tebas has shown interest in staging matches in the United States, but the idea remains sensitive in England following the backlash to 2008 proposals for an extra round of matches abroad, which was met with negative fan response and FIFA pressure.

Speaking at the European Leagues general assembly, Masters said: «The door looks ajar for matches abroad. It is not part of our current plans.» Chelsea and Manchester City, two Premier League giants, are set to play competitive fixtures in the US as part of FIFA's inaugural 32-team Club World Cup in 2025.

Masters voiced his criticism over FIFA's lack of consultation regarding the new tournament, highlighting growing concerns among players and their unions about the additional pressures being imposed. Asked about the possibility of players taking action, Masters commented: «It is getting to a tipping point. The feedback we have from players is that there is too much football being played and there is constant expansion.

»The Premier League hasn't changed shape. What has changed over the last few decades is the march of international and regional football competitions. We are proud to be different in England. We still have two cup competitions.

«We still believe it is for us to determine how big our league is. If you pour more liquid into a cup that is already full, it will overflow. That is what is happening at the moment, not just in terms of the calendar but in terms