Platini looking at Champions League compromise

UEFA president Michel Platini likely will compromise on his Champions League plan in order to get a stronger presence from smaller nations.

Platini had wanted to bring in more representatives from smaller nations and lessen the stranglehold that larger nations and leagues have on the tournament. In doing this, he wanted to bring in national cup winner.

But, of course, the larger clubs – the G14 base included – and some larger leagues did not like or endorse Platini's plan. The opposition is outspoken that cup winners would bring down the level of competition in the Champions League.

Platini now likely will defer his plan in return for support in allowing smaller nations to earn places through their leagues.

The G14 has been said to favour a deal in which more champions and nations are included. The European Professional Football Leagues gave Platini an alternative proposal, claiming it was non-negotiable. Europe's six major football leagues also did not want cup winners in, fearing they would dim the prestige of the tournament.

"The principle was always to get more countries involved and more champions," a UEF source said. "The cup idea was the one UEFA thought was best. But if we achieve the principle then we have achieved our goal."

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.