Thoughts on the Super League plans and a tribute to our beautiful game

In my opinion, the recent development of a new Super League is the next tragic step in our beloved sport of football. But, if we're being honest, football has been heading in the wrong direction for quite some time.

We argue that the Football League's founders are greedy, selfish, and disrespect football's history. I wholeheartedly agree with these arguments. Unfortunately, the uproar is only so strong now that this development is occurring outside of FIFA's and particularly the UEFA's usual framework and structures.

For years, UEFA has favored the larger leagues and clubs. Reforms have been implemented to ensure that the top leagues have more fixed starting positions and to make participation in the Champions League almost impossible for clubs from smaller leagues. The Champions League is critical to UEFA's business model and if the competition is lost the whole organization will be severely impacted. The Champions League provides a significant portion of UEFA's revenue and the organization will not be able to exist without it. Since the European Championship, UEFA's second source of revenue only occurs every four years.

UEFA has consistently implemented new reforms as a result of their realization that they can no longer survive without the Champions League. Just this weekend they released plans that intended to expand the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams by 2024. The unfortunate reality is that most of these new starting spots will have gone again to the big leagues. For far too long, UEFA has been blackmailed by the major clubs and leagues, who have threatened to create their own Super League if they don't get their way. UEFA is now paying its price. Only now, UEFA is discussing solidarity, working together in tough times, and the need to put self-interest aside. But hasn't UEFA been doing exactly this for a long time? For years, haven't they favored the big leagues and clubs in order to generate even more revenue? Where was the solidarity with small leagues and clubs that is so lauded today back then?

From my point of view, a radical change is needed now. We require a UEFA that not only the essential topics of transparency and competitive balance in their strategic plan but also faithfully implements them. We need a UEFA and FIFA that stands up for everyone, not just the major players when it suits their interests. They must be always there for everyone and prioritize the long-term existence of football in all of their decisions and activities.

Let us fight for the most beautiful game and not let it be destroyed by money-greedy individuals who only see the game as a source of profit. Let us fight for more comprehensive changes that benefit all, including small leagues and clubs. Because football only thrives when David takes on Goliath and competition and rivalry are at the heart of the game. Then it draws millions of people to the stadium and TV and brings emotions and joy to so many people around the world.

Please note: this article is based on my own opinions and is a homage to my beloved game, which has been on the wrong path for a long time.