UEFA are reportedly exploring the possibility of beginning the season with a Champions League four-team mini-tournament after scrapping plans for a 'final four' competition.
A report from the Associated Press, based on information from an unnamed source who is involved in discussions and spoke on the condition of anonymity, claimed that UEFA are considering the idea of a mini-tournament that would kick off the new campaign in Europe’s top five leagues.
It is understood the plans would involve founding a pre-season competition that takes place outside of Europe, with four teams travelling to the United States to test out the mini-tournament. Given that several clubs, including Chelsea and Arsenal, are already committed to travelling there for pre-season, it may be viewed favourably if the financial benefit is lucrative enough. Fielding strong lineups, however, may be a difficult task before the season begins.