Masters Football will be returning to our screens in 2022 – and we couldn’t be more excited.
The popular tournament will have its grand kick-off inside the famous four indoor walls, adorned with a blue carpet for good measure. Fans will get to watch some of the best players to have ever graced the pitch for their clubs put it all on the line once again.
Let’s take a look at everything we know so far about the return of Masters Football in 2022, including a lowdown on the tournament itself for those who didn’t watch it in its heyday:
What is Masters Football?
Masters Football is an indoor football tournament. Each team plays six-a-side, and every player involved must be over the age of 35, and have previously played professional football for the club they are representing.
The tournament began in 2000 and ran until 2011 during its initial run. Masters Football was brought back to our screens under a different guise in 2017, titled ‘Star Sixes’. Twelve national teams competed under six-a-side rules.
In Masters Football, there would be a series of regional heats each year. These heats would then determine the qualifiers for the Masters Grand Final.
Liverpool and Rangers are the most successful teams in Masters Football history, having won the tournament twice.
Why is Masters Football returning?
Despite its reduction in popularity and viewing figures towards the end of its initial run, football fans have been desperate to see Masters Football return – and in 2022, that is exactly what is happening.
Sports documentary streaming site 360 Sports TV has been created to stream all the matches. Former Nottingham Forest and England striker Tony Woodcock is a director and co-founder. A press release has also confirmed that Brighton midfielder Adam Lallana and former Aston Villa and Celtic boss Martin O’Neill are involved in the new venture.
The tournament will be known as the 360 Sports Masters Cup. According to the streaming site, there are plans for Masters Football to revert to its original format in 2023, with a full tournament and regional heats.
When will Masters Football return?
Masters Football 2022 will return on July 8, as confirmed by the 360 Sports TV press release. It will take place at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow. Ticket details are not currently available.
Which players and teams will be playing in 2022?
Four teams are confirmed to play in the 360 Sports Masters Cup in 2022:
- Celtic
- Rangers
- Liverpool
- Manchester United
As per the press release, several famous players could play in the tournament. Paul Scholes and Wes Brown are expected to represent Manchester United. Steve McManaman, meanwhile, could play for Liverpool. In addition, former Netherlands international striker Michael Mols is likely to play for reigning Scottish champions Rangers.
It promises to be an exceptional occasion – and fans cannot wait.
Featured Image Credit: Sky Sports