UEFA Secretary Giorgio Marchetti spoke to Radio Anch`Io Lo Sport about the new Champions League format, expressing strong satisfaction. He stated, “We are very satisfied; we wanted to make the formula more exciting and unpredictable.” Marchetti noted the highly engaging group stage, where virtually no matches lacked interest, and highlighted thrilling knockout ties like Inter-Barcelona. He stressed that this format is not temporary but designed to be the future of the competition, confident it will continue to be successful and improve upon the previous globally popular structure. While acknowledging that minor details might be discussed with clubs, the fundamental format will remain unchanged.
Youth League:
Marchetti also mentioned the Youth League, a competition introduced over a decade ago as a sort of Champions League for youth teams. He described it as providing an excellent service to clubs and young players, allowing them to gain exposure to European football from the early stages of their careers.
Limit on Clubs from One Federation:
Regarding the rules on the number of clubs from a single nation, Marchetti explained that all details are carefully considered. The new format includes a mechanism allowing clubs to potentially earn an extra spot for their country. He gave Italy as an example, noting that if a club wins the Champions or Europa League but doesn`t qualify through their domestic league, they add a place for their nation. He clarified that this provision existed before and is integrated into the new 36-team format.
Prize Money:
On the subject of prize money, Marchetti stated that the current 900 million Euro figure will be maintained for the ongoing three-year cycle. The amount for 2027 onwards will depend on future contract negotiations. He also emphasized the redistribution system within UEFA competitions and the solidarity fund, which exceeds 300 million Euros, providing financial support to clubs not participating in European competitions, calling it a crucial element for the broader football ecosystem.
VAR:
Addressing VAR, Marchetti deemed it fundamental but emphasized the need for extreme care in its implementation to avoid altering the game in a way that alienates the public. He acknowledged that technology allows for millimetric offside calls but noted that IFAB and FIFA are currently testing modifications to the offside rule. The aim is to potentially base offside decisions on a more significant part of the player rather than any body part, thereby perhaps avoiding frustrating situations like goals disallowed by only a few centimeters, which can feel contrary to the spirit of the game.
Infrastructure in Italy:
Finally, regarding Italian infrastructure, Marchetti stated that UEFA follows the situation closely. He recognized Italy as a major footballing nation and expressed concern that outdated facilities are detrimental. He hoped Italy would successfully undertake necessary upgrades to transform stadiums into modern and comfortable venues, which they currently are not. He stressed that this transformation is essential and a crucial opportunity that must be seized. Concerning Euro 2032, he felt there was ample time and could not imagine Italy failing to present five stadiums that meet the required standards.