The Tory government has promised action after saying plans for a European Super League “must be stopped”.
Critics say the Super League will remove the excitement of competition by cementing the Big Six clubs' place at the top.
And it will decapitate the football “pyramid” which ensures money flows down to lower-league and grassroots clubs.
But football clubs are private companies and we live in a democracy.
So what could the government actually do in a bid to stop the plans?
Here are seven of the most prominent options being thrown about.
Pressure in the UK and internationally
Ministers also hope to apply international pressure by linking up with Spanish and Italian counterparts.
But if this political pressure doesn’t work, ministers are threatening to use “legislation” or more powerful measures.
Removing state support like policing for games
An estimated £48million a year is spent policing matches in England and Wales, with most not recouped from clubs.
Mr Dowden confirmed the government is looking at whether to withdraw this kind of support.
German model where fans own at least 51% of the club
The ‘German model’ in which fans own at least 51% of shares and voting rights in their club is being examined “very closely” by ministers.
Mr Dowden confirmed it will form part of the fan-led review of football governance launched on Monday.
Competition law
Mr Dowden confirmed he was looking at competition law as one thing that could change or be enforced in this situation.
Windfall taxes
This could apply either directly to the clubs taking part, or to any player transfers they make, according to reports.
Restricting players’ travel
Unconfirmed reports suggest work permits could be restricted for overseas players, making it harder for them to play here.
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Other legal changes
It might have to be [prising control], or at least limiting the extent of the ownership stake, and also dealing with the speculation element of it,” he told the Independent.
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago