ECA supports new plan for UEFA Club Competitions in light of threats caused by COVID-19

The unprecedented nature and scale of the crisis impacting ECA members and all stakeholders across the game has forced European football’s leaders to work at speed, in unique and unpredictable circumstances. Today’s decision to establish a new calendar and format to complete the 2019/20 UCCs for both the men’s and women’s game, along with an adaptation of the calendar and format for the qualifying phase of the 2020/21 UCCs, represents a bold yet pragmatic direction for the next stage of the journey. These measures, in coordination with other decisions, should alleviate some of the short-term pressure clubs are faced with during this dramatic and challenging period.

These decisions are welcomed and should support European football as it emerges from the current COVID-19 crisis. However, the underlying reality is that most clubs, along with the wider world, face a difficult and somewhat uncertain recovery. Continued focus and efforts will be required in the coming months as the game sets further down the path of a more sustainable future. ECA will continue to play a full and active role in these efforts to ensure the game’s long-term sustainability.

Commenting on today’s decisions, ECA Chairman and UEFA Executive Committee member Andrea Agnelli stated:

“At a time when the game is resisting a threat not felt before in the modern era, stakeholders have come together to elaborate a set of measures to position European football strongly for its resumption. The decisions reached today are some of the most important UEFA has ever had to make. First and foremost, it is a joy to see football back despite the general absence of fans required to ensure public safety. We hope this element can change soon, as football lives through the passion of fans. The road to recovery is just beginning, but I’m convinced the measures adopted today will prove vital in securing the game’s continuing future success.”