European Leagues Reject Unify League Proposal

The European Leagues organization has firmly opposed the recently proposed Unify League, a new competition put forward by A22 Sports Management. This proposal comes three years after the failed European Super League initiative.

A22 Sports Management recently announced they have sought official recognition from FIFA and UEFA to establish a new European competition. The proposed Unify League would involve 96 teams from up to 55 nations competing in a multi-tiered system.

Following a December 2023 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union, new competitions can be established if they meet certain criteria, including meritocratic qualification and compliance with existing schedules.

The European Leagues, representing over 1130 clubs from 29 leagues across 33 countries, including major leagues like Serie A, Premier League, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1, have taken a strong stance against introducing another European competition.

In an official statement, the European Leagues denied any consultation regarding the Unify League proposals. They emphasized their commitment to the current structure where clubs qualify for UEFA competitions based on domestic performance.

The organization criticized the Unify League model as unsolicited and unsubstantiated, warning it would increase international matches in an already congested calendar. They stressed that reducing domestic league competitions to accommodate more international fixtures is not an option.

European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe have requested the European Commission to ensure that no decisions about the International Match Calendar can be made without formal agreement from domestic leagues and player unions.

The statement concluded by reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a balanced and sustainable relationship between domestic and international football.