December 19 – The Union of European Clubs (UEC) has criticised A22’s ‘Unify’ plans over of its elitist blueprint for its proposed European club competition.
In a statement, the union, a home for smaller and medium-sized clubs on the continent, condemned A22’s new plans that mirrored a failed attempt to establish a European super league, saying: “The Union of European Clubs (UEC) strongly opposes A22’s latest proposal, the ‘Unify League’, which represents a deeply elitist vision for European football. This concept consolidates power within a small group of wealthy clubs, marginalises the majority of leagues and teams, and leaves the broader football ecosystem at risk.”
“The Unify League appears to be a step towards removing UEFA from its vital governance role, effectively eliminating the limited counterweights that currently exist to balance the influence of the wealthiest clubs,” continued the letter.
“At the UEC, we believe these counterweights are already deficient, with the biggest clubs holding far too much power over European football. By concentrating control further in the hands of Europe’s richest clubs, the proposal risks sidelining the majority of clubs and stakeholders, leaving critical questions unanswered about governance, decision-making, revenue distribution, and solidarity mechanisms to support smaller leagues and clubs.”
The proposal comes four years after the dramatic 48-hour launch and collapse of the European Super League, but Madrid-based A22 remains intent on establishing a competition that can compete with the Champions League.
Last December, the Court of Justice of the European Union said that governing bodies UEFA and FIFA acted contrary to EU competition law by blocking plans for the breakaway league. The verdict emboldened A22 to draw up new plans which were released earlier this week. A22 has applied to UEFA and FIFA to get recognition of its competition.
Barcelona and Real Madrid remain in favour of a reincarnation of the Super League, but A22’s plans will be difficult to realise, even if John Hahn struck an optimistic tone. The group will need to find backing from more clubs and rival the commercial revenue of the revamped Champions League. FIFA is also organising an expanded Club World Cup, with indirect backing from Saudi Arabia.
“The UEC reiterates that the future of European football cannot be dictated by a narrow group of wealthy clubs,” concluded the UEC. “True progress lies in safeguarding the integrity of national leagues, supporting clubs of all sizes, and fostering a transparent, inclusive governance model that works for everyone in the football community.”
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