Members of the European Club Association (ECA) will reportedly lobby UEFA to allow two teams to qualify for the Champions League based on their historical performance - not league position. The idea is already part of UEFA's new Champions League format.
The news comes a year after the European Super League (ESL) plot collapsed within 48 hours of its announcement. The ESL plan saw 12 clubs - including six Premier League sides - try to create a closed shop of elite European clubs, guaranteeing their qualification into the lucrative tournament. The plot was widely condemned by supporters.
It's believed members of the ECA - including 10 English clubs - want to see two teams qualify for the Champions League based on their UEFA coefficient, a ranking calculated on results in Europe over the past five seasons. This method of qualification would only be required for those who fail to qualify through their league standing.
If the proposal was in place for this season, for example, Manchester United (ranked ninth) and Roma (ranked 12th) would qualify for the Champions League. Both teams are currently on track for Europa League qualification, placing sixth in their respective leagues.
According to The Guardian, this plot has been discussed within the Club Competitions Committee, which sees members of the ECA work on competition reforms with UEFA. The idea is also set to be discussed at UEFA's General Assembly in Vienna this week.
European football's governing body have previously confirmed two clubs would qualify for the Champions League based on their coefficient from the 2024-25 season onwards as part of their 2021 reforms. The competition is set to expand from 32 to 36 teams.
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But the idea could be scrapped due to the ESL plot and "sporting integrity". If approved, it would have an impact on the Premier League's top-four race and create an even bigger financial gulf between the so-called "Big Six" and those at the bottom end of the table.
All "Big Six" clubs are currently ranked within the top 15 of the coefficient list. There is a real possibility Manchester City, United, Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea would all qualify for the Champions League if the proposal is approved by UEFA.
It's believed discussions between the ECA and UEFA over the future of the Champions League are ongoing. UEFA will reportedly make the final decision on reforms.
Fan groups are resistant to the idea. One group, named Football Supporters' Europe, have launched an initiative named "Win it on the Pitch" that is urging the European Union (EU) to block proposals of this nature.
"The wave of indignation, solidarity and unity that followed the Super League must now be followed by a clear, concrete and long-term action plan at EU level," read a statement. "Sport is a social good that belongs to everyone - not just the rich and elite.
"It is therefore now more important than ever that the EU institutions, member states and politicians work together with fans and concerned citizens to protect football and other sports across the continent."
