The proposal that two places in the Champions League be assigned based on the UEFA coefficient is back on the table. Members of the European Club Association (ECA) will press UEFA again to allow the introduction of these two positions, based on continental performance over the past five seasons. As pointed out The Guardian these positions would be for teams that were left out of Champions League positions.
All these proposals have been discussed by the ECA and in principle they will be raised at the General Assembly that the organization will have in Vienna next week. with that decision they would ensure the presence of some great straggler club, in the case of having a bad season in their domestic competition. Yes indeed, in case of finishing in Europa League or Conference League positions. Basically, this new standard it could start to apply from 2024, year in which the new Champions League will begin, a competition that will have 36 teams (instead of the current 32) and in which there will be matches on Thursdays. As noted The Teamthe rule that two teams go to the Champions League by their coefficient was already beginning to be considered during the past year.
After the collapse of the Super League, UEFA said it could fit the reforms, although Alexander Ceferin earlier this month did not confirm the introduction of the two coefficient slots. This decision would benefit the big teams. The Guardian stated that the Association of European Leagues would be against ranking by coefficient as do various fan organizations. Football Supporters Europe launched this weekend an initiative called ‘Win it on the pitch’ (earn it in the field), being totally against and betting on meritocracy. Sources close to the ECA confirmed discussions with UEFA about reforming the Champions League, but made it clear that the governing body would be in charge of making any final decisions.