ECA attends European Parliament Sport Intergroup Conference on the International Transfer System

The Conference brought together key football stakeholders from across Europe to share their views on issues related to the transfer system governance in football. The overarching aim of the conference was to debate whether the current transfer system should undergo some changes or adaptations in order to improve it.

ECA Senior Strategic Advisor, David Frommer spoke on behalf of ECA alongside representatives from, FIFPro, EPFL, Belgian Pro League and EFAA, the European Agents Association. In his address, David Frommer outlined the importance of a well-functioning transfer system and the necessity to discuss possible improvements to the system with all stakeholders involved in the professional game. He explained that since 2014 several important changes had been introduced in the transfer regulations, such as better enforcement in case of overdue payables (incl. fast-track procedure and effective sanctions), prohibition of third-party ownership, more effective procedures for dealing with cases and the creation of FIFA TMS, which enhances transparency and allows for monitoring of financial transactions. He stressed that there is always room for improvement and ECA believes further enhancements should be looked at. However, the focus should remain on challenging and rectifying the abuses and imperfections within the system rather than challenging the system itself. It was made clear that abolishing the transfer system would risk destroying the complex and fragile "eco-system" that allows the professional game to develop.

ECA welcomes the opportunity to engage constructively with politicians and stakeholders of the game in order to make the clubs' voice heard and contribute to the sustainable development of football at all levels.