The English Premier League is undoubtedly the biggest football league in the world. Of course it is counted in one of the world’s most popular sports leagues, and it has seen its share of controversies over the years.
These are just some of the controversies that have surrounded the Premier League in recent years. Despite these incidents, the league remains one of the most popular and highly-regarded football leagues in the world.
There have been no issues with the league’s history, with millions of fans tuning in to watch the top teams and players in action.
Controversies In Premier League
10. The “Cashley Cole” Scandal
In 2005, Ashley Cole was at the center of a controversy. It was revealed that he had been approached by Chelsea with a cash offer, while he was still under contract with Arsenal.
Also Read: 10 Biggest Controversies In Bundesliga History
The incident led to widespread condemnation and calls for the introduction of stricter rules to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
9. The “Suarez Race Row”
In 2011, Liverpool’s Luis Suarez was accused of racially abusing Manchester United’s Patrice Evra during a match.
Suarez was eventually found guilty and banned for eight matches, sparking a debate about racism in football.
8. The “Diving” Controversy
Diving, or feigning injury to win a free kick or penalty, has been a persistent issue in the Premier League.
The issue has sparked debate and calls for greater penalties for players who dive, with some suggesting that the use of video technology could help to reduce the problem.
7. The “Foreign Ownership” Controversy
In recent years, there has been a growing number of foreign owners in the Premier League. This lead to concerns about the impact of foreign ownership on the league’s competitiveness and the long-term future of English football.
6. The “Financial Fair Play” Controversy
In 2010, the Premier League introduced new rules designed to prevent clubs from spending beyond their means.
The new rules have sparked debate and controversy, with some suggesting that they stifle investment and limit the competitiveness of the league.
5. The “Six-Six-Six” Controversy
In 2005, Arsenal and Manchester United played out a 0-0 draw in a highly-anticipated match. It lead to widespread criticism and claims of “boring” football.
The incident sparked a debate about the style of play in the Premier League and calls for greater emphasis on entertainment value.
4. The “Gazza” Scandal
In 1998, Paul Gascoigne was at the center of a controversy after making a gesture towards opposition supporters during a Premier League match.
The incident sparked a debate about the role of footballers as role models and calls for greater discipline in the sport.
3. The “Rooney Ruckus”
In 2010, Wayne Rooney was involved in a controversial on-field incident during a Premier League match. His actions lead to calls for greater discipline and stricter rules in the sport.
2. The “Super League” Controversy
In 2021, a group of twelve European clubs, including six English Premier League clubs (Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham), announced their intention to form a breakaway Super League.
The announcement was met with widespread opposition from fans, players, and authorities, and the project was eventually abandoned.
1. The “VAR” Controversy
In 2019, the Premier League introduced the use of video assistant referees (VAR) to assist referees in making key decisions during matches.
The new technology has been the source of much debate and controversy. Some were arguing that it slows the game down and takes away from its fluidity and excitement.