UEFA and A22 Sports Management, the company behind the proposed European Super League, are reportedly holding discussions about a potential merger of their club competitions — a move that could reshape European football.
According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, the talks involve transforming the UEFA Champions League into a 36-team tournament divided into two tiers of 18 clubs each. The top 18 teams would compete in the main division, while the remaining 18 would play in a secondary competition, both under the Champions League brand. The new format could be introduced as early as 2027.
Unlike the current system, broadcasting rights would not be sold to television networks. Instead, all matches would reportedly be streamed on a new digital platform called UNIFY, potentially offering ad-free or low-cost subscription options.
The discussions come amid a long-standing power struggle between UEFA and A22. The two sides have been at odds since the failed launch of the European Super League in 2021, which collapsed following widespread backlash from fans, clubs, and governments.
The dispute reignited in 2023, when the European Court of Justice ruled that UEFA’s monopoly over club competitions violated EU competition law. A22 has since interpreted that ruling as a green light to revisit its project in collaboration with UEFA rather than in opposition.
A22 reportedly views the proposed model as a “compromise solution” — allowing UEFA to maintain control of European football while providing major clubs with financial stability and expanded global reach.
However, critics warn that the new structure could further widen the gap between elite clubs and smaller teams already struggling under the current financial system.
For now, UEFA maintains that no agreement has been reached, and the existing Champions League format remains unchanged.
If realized, the proposal could either mark the end of football’s biggest governance feud — or ignite a new chapter in the ongoing battle over who truly controls the game.
Source:Africa Publicity
