'G14' Push for Champions League Changes

'G14' - Europe's Top
By Chris O'Brien
March 20 2006

The 'G14'are reportedly anxious to enjoy a greater say on the format of the Champions League. Manchester United officials, leading members of the organisation, are even said to have discussed the idea of breaking away from the European Cup altogether.

The G14 are piling pressure on Uefa to change the format of the Champions League, whilst speculation is even suggesting that the group may 'breakaway' from the competition in favour of their own high-profile tournament.

The organisation was founded in 2000, bringing together the continent's fourteen biggest football clubs to provide a united voice in negotiations with the world's governing bodies. Two years later, four more clubs were awarded membership, though the G14 maintained its original name. Arsenal and Liverpool join United in this rather 'exclusive' group.

Manchester United have always been at the forefront of the G14, and are said to be playing a leading role in negations to change Europe's leading competition.

In 2003, the Champions League format was changed, abolishing the unpopular second group stage in favour of an extra knock-out round. Supporters generally approved of this idea, helping the competition return to a more 'cup' style. However, Europe's richest clubs were said to be furious at their lack of influence with this decision, inevitably costing them television money, gate receipts and prize packets.

"The last time it was changed from two group stages to one we couldn't say anything and that can't happen again," announced Barcelona vice-president Ferran Soriano, a leading name within the G14. "In general terms the Champions League is a fantastic competition but we want to have more games if possible.

"We also want to guarantee competition in every game - in some of the final group games there is no real competition because the first and second place is already decided. We want more games and guaranteed competition all the time."

Meanwhile, speculation has suggested that the G14 are planning to split from Uefa and try to grasp control of the Champions League or even form their own 'G14' cup away from the umbrella of European's governing body. A breakaway competition would be a farce, with participation based on financial resources rather than success on the pitch. In this world of radical commercialisation, farcical wages and big-money signings, it is surely important not to 'sugar-daddy' the wealthiest club's yet further.

Personally, I do not feel that the stature of football clubs should allow them to dictate proceedings. The G14 was set-up to protect the interests of Europe's richest clubs, but their status and prominence should not make them any bigger than small clubs battling to reach the next level.
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