Football Heals & Unifies During The Coronavirus Pandemic

The English Football is known worldwide for its extreme competition and spiced up games. However, it is also known for the rivalries that exist between prominent clubs. There are various leagues where they compete for dominance. 

The two major leagues of England have always witnessed their differences. The Premier League and English Football League host their battles every football season. However, this coronavirus crisis is changing a lot of things. The teams that are usually against each other have let down their guards and are embracing the difficulties together. 

Some Classic English Football Rivalries

Liverpool vs. Manchester United! Every football fan across the world must have been a witness to this fierce battle of two English clubs. These two teams have the largest fanbase outside of the UK and thus paint a picture for the world to see. This is one of the oldest wars prevailing in the universe of football. Trophy clashes are the most common, but differences also prevail for city proximity and other factors. 

Another rivalry that exists is between Stoke and Arsenal. This is not only for the reward, but it is a show of dominance of styles. Arsenal is a classy, debonair team, playing with style and technique. Stoke reverses this and plays rough rugged football, with no concern of aesthetics whatsoever. 

Liverpool and Chelsea are two clubs that see each other as eyesores. There has not been a pleasant game between them for over years now. Fans of either club don't hold much tolerance for each other and can often be seen crashing during games. 

The Hammers and Spurs are also always set for a game of power. The West Ham United vs. Tottenham games have been tearing apart London during these games. However, this hatred seems almost one-sided sometimes with West Ham leading the battle. But they can't be blamed as Spurs have had their benefits and wins lately. 

The Joint Decision 

Seeing the COVID-19 situation getting out of hand, the EFL, PFA, and Premier came together. At the end of March, when the UK was battling a crisis with all its might and still losing, these three authorities of English football united to make a decision. 

The meeting pondered the serious economic and health implications of these leagues and stated that tough decisions need to be taken. They suspended major football leagues till at least 30th April. But even now the situation has not improved much. 

The future of Football in England still hangs in uncertainty. However, seeing the Bundesliga resume, chances of bringing back the Premier League are high now. Most players have returned to no contact training and group practices are expected to begin sometime later. 

This joint decision has played a great role in uniting the teams as players are all concerned about their security. Most of them wish that associations keep their safety as a priority and don’t force them to play until the danger subsides. No matter what clubs they belong to, the fear of coronavirus spread and infection has united the players against some unreasonable demands.

Tough Times For Clubs

Out of the 20 clubs of the Premier League, most have had a coronavirus scare. It is difficult to stay uninfected if any member of the club, be it, staff, coach, or player has caught the virus. Thus it is increasingly difficult for clubs to cope with it and still maintain their practice routine. 

All European sporting events are closed down, and at this time, the importance of unity of the UK is more than ever. Football has a considerable influence on the citizens, and it is important that a strong and right message is sent to the people. 

When the lockdown began sometime in March, clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool were fighting the pandemic on the frontlines. They were first to share the message that isolation is necessary and fundamental for lives to return to normal and football comes secondary. 

With the lockdown now being lifted step by step, these clubs can again unite to define the boundaries of play. Protective equipment and face shields would become the norm, and if all clubs stay united, then football could serve as the much-needed stress reliever for the UK. 

Supporters of the sport are already missing the routine of games' season. Scores, matches, cheers, all seem to be missing from the air. With COVID-19 ruling the lives, football can be seen as a savior much needed by the people to get relief from stress. The rivalries amidst clubs can be restored once players get down on field and grounds, but outside of them, unity is the weapon. The English Football clubs seem smart enough to stand tall and strong to face this. Fans might miss the occasional game riot, but they’ll catch the right message.