On Saturday, Barcelona announced its official withdrawal from the European Super League (ESL), a controversial tournament originally designed to compete with UEFA Champions League. This decision effectively leaves Real Madrid as the last club standing in favor of the league, which was established in 2021 by twelve of Europe's elite clubs, including teams like Arsenal, Juventus, and Liverpool. The ESL faced significant backlash from fans and football associations, leading to most participating clubs stepping back over time.

Barcelona's president, Joan Laporta, had previously indicated that the club was reconsidering its involvement in the ESL. In a statement, the club confirmed that it had formally communicated its exit to the European Super League Company and the other clubs involved. This shift highlights the ongoing struggle between traditional football structures and new models proposed by clubs looking to generate more revenue amidst changing market conditions and fan reactions. The decision demonstrates Barcelona's intent to return to UEFA's governance and competitions.

The abandonment of the Super League by Barcelona could signify the project's increasing unviability and the dwindling support it has among major football clubs. With Real Madrid now the only prominent team still advocating for the ESL, the future of the project looks uncertain, especially given the strong opposition from fans, media, and football governing bodies. The implications of this withdrawal also extend to the broader landscape of football governance as teams navigate financial pressures while maintaining fan support and heritage.