Clubs discuss playing UEFA Champions League games in US

UEFA is reportedly interested in making some significant changes to the Champions League, including putting matches in the US.

The governing body of the sport in Europe is currently holding meetings ahead of the European Club Association gathering in Turkey later in the week. Essentially, the ECA represents the big clubs throughout the continent. These are teams that regularly compete in Champions League or Europa League competitions. Meetings are in place to figure out ways to grow interest in these tournaments. Consequently, that means producing more profits.

Reports suggest that one of these ideas is to play certain Champions League matches outside of the region. This would be an attempt to bring more meaningful games to fans around the world.  Normally, people outside of Europe could only see their favorite clubs play preseason friendlies.

One of the most influential people supporting this idea is PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi. He not only chairs the ECA, but he is also on the UEFA executive committee. Although these propositions are still in their infancy, the plan is supposedly to bring these massive matches to new markets. Therefore, one of the potential Champions League match locations could be the US.

UEFA Champions League and more possibly in the US

Along with playing some Champions League games outside of Europe, UEFA eyes up something similar with the Super Cup. The annual match between the UEFA Champions League and Europa League winners is normally held in August of each year.

Introducing an entirely new tournament is also in the works as well. UEFA is pondering a mini tournament to include four clubs. One of these teams will be the reigning Champions League winner. Meanwhile, the other three clubs would seemingly just be chosen each year.  The “Opening Tournament” would be held at the beginning of the season.

Just four days ago, the ECA’s official Twitter account made references to the US and China markets. They claimed that these two regions are more affected by a successful soccer team compared to other areas. The ECA used this data to boost their plans to bring European club soccer overseas.

“This highlights that there are opportunities for European clubs and competitions to build on this interest and influence; to increase the availability of European club football to these audiences and allow exposure to these events to continue building further and deeper interest and engagement.”

PHOTO: IMAGO / Beautiful Sports