Speaking at the general meeting of the European Club Association (ECA) in Rome, which represents around 800 teams from across the continent, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, referring to the Super League project, said: “Europe sets the standards in world football and that is why we are seeing attempts from outside to remake the game.”
Stressing the importance of inclusivity in Europe football, Čeferin said: “Change is part of the history of football. We know that well. But lasting value only comes from unity, balance and reforms that strengthen not just some, but all.”
Talking about the failed Super League project, he said: “UEFA will never organize a tournament for only 12 clubs.”
A group of 12 of the most established clubs in Europe announced plans to create a new Super League, which in 2021 will replace the Champions League – the tournament of elite clubs in UEFA and Europe.
Čeferin commented on the announcement by saying: “Football is not just about balance sheets. It is not just about entertainment. It is about the life of our communities. It is shaped by the streets, the clubs and the fans. If we stray too far from these roots, we will We risk destroying it. Football is our mainstay.”
The UEFA chief’s remarks come two days after UEFA said it would not oppose plans to break with tradition despite fierce opposition from fans groups across the continent – a league match in Miami involving Barcelona and a match in Australia involving Milan.
The La Liga match between Villarreal and Barcelona will take place in Miami (USA), and the Serie A match between Milan and Como will take place in Perth (Australia).