Since the prospect of a re-structured Super League has grown into prominence, ideas surrounding the true elites of European football – and the leagues they compete in – have come into contention. For some, there’s simply no debate. English fans in particular will compare the footballing quality, individual brilliance, and competitive nature seen in our top-flight with the EPL’s European equivalents (Ligue 1, Serie A, Bundesliga, La Liga), and quickly dismiss any suggestion of these leagues mirroring the Prem’s calibre. Let’s consider their reasoning. The Premier League has seen some of the most electrifying footballing moments of the modern era. Goals treated as worldwide spectacles, individual talents shining year after year, and of course the various examples of underdog success (‘Ranieri-ball’ comes to mind).
Would it be fair then, to write off our European counterparts as ‘Farmers leagues’? Ligue 1 in particular is accused of being non-competitive due to the dominance of a single club, yet 2020/2021 has seen Lille upset the balance- with Monaco only four points worse off than second-place PSG. Whether or not this shift in dominance will persist into seasons to come, does this underdog story not add to Ligue 1’s credibility and entertainment value?
ㅤ
ㅤ
Whilst it might be difficult to argue for certain European leagues in a weigh-up of overall standard, examples of elite football rivalries are prominent throughout their history. Both the Derby di Milano and Der Klassiker are examples of exceptional competition, attracting a global audience and displaying- undeniably- world-class football. And despite the distinctive passion surrounding ‘smaller’ domestic derbies, it tends to be these clashes that generate the most hype. The El Clasico however, is heralded by many as the highest level of rivalry in the sport. And although it’s unique excellence as a fixture has proved key to the appeal of La Liga across Europe- would it be too generous to suggest that it encapsulates the quality of the Spanish top-flight? Some would argue that it’s more reflective of a two-horse race, but as of last season, it seems Diego Simone would beg to differ.
ㅤ
The strength of competition within the Prem is evidently key to it’s supposed position as the worlds best- but are there not equally fierce footballing contentions seen in the EFL Championship? Could a constantly rotating set of promotion seeking (and relegation-avoiding) teams not surpass the top-flight in terms of raw competitiveness? Given that a significant portion of PL clubs turn to Championship personnel during transfer windows- the suggested divide in individual ability between the two English divisions is explored and questioned often. It’s a massively popular sentiment amongst pundits, players, managers and fans across England, and should certainly weigh into this debate.
When it comes down to it, fans of the Premier League will always argue in favour of its incomparable standard of football. For many- it’s moments within EPL history that have shaped their passion and appreciation for our game. Rooney’s overhead in the Manchester Derby, Leicester’s year, Aguero in the 93rd, The 03/04 Invincibles, or even unanimous applause at Anfield in 95’, as Blackburn achieved the title. It’s scenes like these that transcend the simple context of an English football game- and become iconised across the sporting world.
