Here's why Manchester United, Chelsea are opposing Champions League proposal
What's the story
The UEFA has been contemplating a revolutionary change in the Champions League's structure from 2024. As per media reports, the UEFA is working with the European Club Association (ECA) to introduce a three-tier system in the UCL, which would see 128 teams playing the tournament. However, the move has drawn criticism from the top English clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea. Here is more.
Format
UEFA looking to change the format
Further, reports also state that the UEFA was also considering to make changes in the format of the group stage of the UCL. It suggested that four groups of eight teams should lock horns in the group stage. This would have seen teams playing 14 group-stage matches before qualifying for the knockouts.
Opposition
English teams oppose the proposal
Meanwhile, the English clubs have criticized the proposal. They feel that the only viable option in order to make it happen would be to pull out of a domestic tournament, and the League Cup might become the victim of this proposal. And, if done so, the League Cup's future could be in jeopardy.
No agreement
No agreement so far about any future plans
Meanwhile, a club official was quoted as saying to The Sun that while no agreement is in place, for now, none of the ideas are acceptable either. "We all want more money and there is an acceptance that things will have to change. But, the plans do not have any real support, so they have to go away and think again," the official said.
Drop plans
ECA chairman hints at plans being dropped for now
Meanwhile, ECA chairman Andrea Agnelli, who is also the head of Juventus, said while all the plans were in place, nothing has been finalized as of now. "It's been great seeing the participation of many clubs in sharing consultation in the past couple of months. This was the start of a genuine, open and transparent process," said Agnelli.
Quote
"We have different views on formats and stability principles"
"We have different views on formats and stability principles. We have issues on the calendar. I understand that -- but there is an overall acceptance that reform must happen in 2024-25," concluded Agnelli.
Twitter Post
Agnelli feels clubs have a major role in decision making
“We have to continue placing clubs at the heart of decision making.” #HeartOfFootball pic.twitter.com/ZJtJ2YJkaM
— ECA (@ECAEurope) September 9, 2019