Why though? It is supply vs demand. There is great access to a number of different footballing leagues and indeed sports now in global media. The cut and thrust of the PL with most games outcomes uncertain has a great appeal. That is why it generally usurps it's european counterparts leagues. And again why it will remain more profitable as long as it's strongest globally recognisable teams stay than any champions league or other comp. When the CL starts serving up entertaining and more occationally unpredictable football then we may see some progress in revenue. Until we do, why would BT et all fork out as much for the rights for the CL? ANd if they, SKY and the rest of the world broad casters won't pay as much then where is the greater prize money to come from?
To also put it in context, whilst the winner may not win as much from the CL as 20th in the PL, I'm fairly sure that all of the clubs ultimately contesting the later stages, will still be bringing in inxs of that last place finisher from their own domestic rights and winnings.
With the new rights deal the playing field may begin to level in the PL as that added income starts to further talent strip the lesser financed leagues in Europe. I genuinely fear for all the other leagues as the increased spending power here, in china and the US could strip them of most of the best. It could leave those leagues even worse exposed to their top twos or threes who can constantly qualify for the CL and as a result maintain domestic dominance as the talent differeential increases. La liga is bad enough with only 2-3 possible winners, imagine if the rest are unable to keep their best players as the PL can destroy their wage offerings. The gap grows and the league becomes even less appealing. PL domination grows!
Murdocks evil master plan in action!
Bah!
......... and we've just gone and got ourselves relegated




