MANCHESTER, England — Organizers of a planned breakaway European Super League have unveiled fresh proposals for a competitor to the Champions League, introducing what they are calling the Unify League.
This initiative represents the most recent effort to create an elite competition for Europe’s top soccer clubs after an attempted Super League in 2021 fell apart following significant backlash from fans and teams.
A22-Sports Management, based in Madrid, announced on Tuesday that it has formally submitted its plans to UEFA and FIFA, seeking official approval for this new tournament.
A22’s chief executive, Bernd Reichart, emphasized the need for innovation within soccer that elevates the experiences of fans, enhances player welfare, and maintains match competitiveness.
In a landmark decision, the Court of Justice of the European Union last year ruled that UEFA and FIFA had violated EU competition law by obstructing any attempts to establish a Super League.
This ruling was hailed by Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez, who proclaimed that a new era of freedom in European football had emerged.
Real Madrid, along with FC Barcelona, has been a strong advocate for creating a separate league, although many original supporters of the initiative have since withdrawn.
While Pérez is currently in Doha, Qatar, for the Intercontinental Cup final, he has not yet publicly addressed these recent proposals.
The initial concept announced by a group of 12 elite European clubs in 2021 aimed to essentially replace the Champions League, leading to severe backlash from fans and lawmakers alike.
This controversial plan included provisions to protect 15 dominant clubs from relegation, thereby ensuring them guaranteed participation, regardless of their performance in their respective national leagues.
A22 has since restructured its proposal to include mechanisms for promotion, relegation, and withdrawal, along with the inclusion of a women’s league.
The latest iteration involves 96 clubs, with qualification determined by their annual performance in domestic competitions.
A notable feature of the new structure is the introduction of free streaming of matches, allowing clubs to engage more directly with their international fan bases, according to A22.
Despite claims that the updated plans were developed in collaboration with clubs and various stakeholders, it remains uncertain which teams are willing to support a rival competition to the Champions League.
In the original breakaway group, clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan were involved.
To date, only Real Madrid and Barcelona from that list have refrained from publicly distancing themselves from the concept of a breakaway league.
A22 identifies itself as an advisory organization aiming to develop new club football competitions across Europe.
Reichart, with a background in broadcasting, previously held CEO roles at various prominent media companies.
Co-founder Anas Laghrari has experience in finance and has been involved in financing renovations for notable stadiums, as well as sports sponsorships.
Co-founder John Hahn has expertise in investments spanning telecommunications, media, and technology sectors, according to A22’s description.
As of now, UEFA, FIFA, and the European Club Association have not commented on the proposed plans.