European Leagues take a stand against Unify League proposal: ‘Not requested’ | OneFootball

The European Leagues have taken a stance against the Unify League, a proposed new competition organised by A22 Sports management, which has come about three years after the failed and infamous European Super League project.

Earlier this week, A22 Sports Management confirmed in a press release that they have requested official recognition from FIFA and UEFA to establish a new European competition, which would see 96 teams from up to 55 different nations competing in a multi-tiered system.

Following a ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union in December 2023, any competition where qualification is meritocratic and inclusive, and which complies with pre-existing schedules, are now allowed to be established. That means that legally, the Unify League has a right to put forward its ideas.

The European Leagues, which represents over 1130 clubs from 29 leagues across 33 different countries, including Serie A, B and C in Italy, as well as the Premier League, Bundesliga and Ligue 1, have taken a firm stance against the introduction of yet another new European competition.

European Leagues take stance against Unify League

In a statement released on Thursday, the European Leagues have denied that they had any consultation regarding the Unify League proposals.

They also request in association with FIFPRO Europe that no decision be made regarding the Unify League until there is a ‘formal agreement’ from the domestic leagues and players’ unions.

“The European Leagues notes this week’s announcement from A22 and reject any suggestion that a consultation took place with our organization,” a statement read.

“The leagues reaffirm their commitment to the current professional football structure in which clubs qualify for UEFA Club Competitions through annual domestic performances.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 01: Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Real Madrid, lifts the UEFA Champions League Trophy after his team’s victory during the UEFA Champions League 2023/24 Final match between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid CF at Wembley Stadium on June 01, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

“The A22’s competition model, which is not requested and unsubstantiated, would increase the number of international matches in an already congested calendar.

“Supporters and stakeholders across the game have consistently made it clear that any attempt from existing or new international club competitions to expand their calendars at the expense of domestic competitions will be rejected. Reducing the number of domestic clubs in league competitions to create more space for international fixtures will never be an option for the European Leagues Association and its members.

“This is why, European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe have asked the European Commission to ensure that no decision can be made about the International Match Calendar (IMC) without the formal agreement of domestic leagues and player unions. We will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to maintain a complementary and sustainable balance between domestic and international football.”