Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA president, saw this Sunday how his plan was successfully closed. Bayern were proclaimed champions in Lisbon with a new and adjusted format due to the coronavirus pandemic. The president granted an interview to L'Equipe in which he reviewed everything that has surrounded this new final.
Rich old and new: “The Champions League does not exclude any team. New or old investors, everyone has their chance. PSG played a fantastic final. They have great players.”
Rumors about impediments of historical clubs to stop City or PSG: “PSG or Manchester City are doing a good job. PSG have invested in the right players, the club is well organized. Anything that is said behind the scenes is not important. UEFA respects everyone equally.”
Concern about how to finish this Champions: “I always thought that we would be able to finish our competitions. UEFA is the only organization in the world that has organized four different events in four different countries during this pandemic. It took a lot of work, a lot of stress and many sleepless nights. Also discussions with many governments but it has been a success. “
Final to eight vs round trip: “The final to eight did not distort the Champions League. Playing behind closed doors was a disadvantage, yes, because the atmosphere is not the same but, with respect to the rest, there are not many damages. The quarterfinals and semifinals to a game left interesting encounters. The tournament It's exciting. The health crisis forced us but, in the end, we had a positive reaction. “
Same passion: “I felt the same, except that the games had to be behind closed doors …”
Changes in 2024: “Since the health crisis began, we have not raised this issue. Not informally. We may do so in September.”
Why change ?: “It's great when you have something wonderful but you can change to make it even bigger, although if you don't change, it remains magnificent. My opinion is that we need to talk to make tournaments even more attractive. We don't know in which direction yet but we will decide at the end of this year or early next year. “
Super League: “This year four greats have reached the semifinals. In the Champions League, everyone can beat everyone. A Super League with 12 or 24 would be boring. When I talk to the greats, I don't see any interest in creating this Super League. From time to time someone speaks but they know that the Champions League is the best sports competition in the world “.
2019 project: “Yes, it was too closed but it was discussed. The UEFA Executive Committee has the power to decide on this but there will be a broad consultation.”
Close football in France: “It was a decision that was made too early and it was political. It was proven to be a mistake. The rest of the major leagues finished without any concern. UEFA respected France's decision but I think they rushed.”
Relationship with Al-Khelaifi: “He represents the ECA on the Executive Committee. It is important and he proposes measures. I have a very good relationship with him.”
Al-Khelaifi, Bein and UEFA: “It's simple. We have clear and transparent offers. Whoever offers the most wins the contract. Even if my brother or sister participates, I could not win if they don't make the best offer.”
Trials in Switzerland against Al-Khelaifi: “As a lawyer, I always respect the presumption of innocence. It is the key. If you are convicted is one thing but that you are being investigated in a case that has not been tried does not mean that you have done something wrong.”
Team matches: “They will be played. If any of them cannot play at home, they will take to neutral ground. It is essential. There are contracts with the televisions and they must be fulfilled. If not, many federations could go bankrupt.”
Impact of canceling the Eurocup: “We are calculating but it will be more than 100 million euros. We are still discussing with the televisions but they have to think that the audience ratings are excellent. It is a very interesting tournament although it is not so popular.”