European football chief says no to Super League

Helsinki, April 5 : Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) President Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday strongly opposed the idea that the best clubs in Europe should be in a Super League, and warned that his organisation will not give in to blackmail of the most powerful and rich clubs in the continent.

In a speech at the 41st UEFA Ordinary Congress in Helsinki, he said the creation of a Super League "is not in line with our values and ideals. Quite simply, money does not rule", reports Efe.

Ceferin was firm and sent a message to clubs and national leagues that was midway between a warning and conciliation.

"We will never give in to the blackmail of those who think they can manipulate small leagues or impose their will on the associations because they think they are all powerful on account of the astronomical revenues they generate," he added.

Ceferin also announced that UEFA wants to draw up a strategic plan for the next five years, alongside national clubs and leagues to develop European soccer for the future.

An initiative of investors from the US, England and Asia sought the formation of a new 24-club league with 16 permanent teams and eight qualifiers.

Seven clubs from England, two from Germany as well as clubs from Spain and Italy were supposed to compete in the league.