Gary Neville criticizes Euro 2028 hosting fears amid regulator support

Gary Neville has recently taken to social media to advocate for the establishment of an independent football regulator in England, a move he believes is crucial for the governance of domestic football. His comments come amid concerns from UEFA that the introduction of such a regulator could lead to government interference, potentially jeopardizing England's co-hosting of Euro 2028 with the UK and Ireland. Neville has labeled these fears as 'scaremongering' and insists that the regulator will not diminish the quality of the Premier League. The backdrop to this discussion includes a long-standing power struggle between the Premier League and the English Football League (EFL), with top clubs often criticized for not adequately sharing their financial resources with lower-tier teams. The current situation is further complicated by Manchester City's ongoing legal disputes regarding numerous charges against them, highlighting the need for stricter oversight in the sport. Neville emphasizes that the introduction of a regulator is vital for protecting the integrity of English football as a whole, arguing that the long-term health of the sport should take precedence over hosting international tournaments. He believes that misinformation is being spread to undermine the regulator's introduction, as some top-flight club owners have voiced their opposition to it. Ultimately, Neville's stance reflects a broader call for reform in English football governance, aiming to ensure that the sport remains sustainable and equitable for all levels of competition, rather than prioritizing occasional hosting rights for major tournaments.