Platini mulls European makeover

UEFA president Michel Platini has hinted of possible format changes to the Champions League and Europa League.

The concept of the Europa League has come under fire in recent years as clubs from major leagues often field their reserves.

Reports have suggested the Europa League would be scrapped completely in favour of a 64-team Champions League under the changes.

Platini has previously revealed that UEFA, football’s governing body in Europe, are looking into reforming both competitions, and he has now made it clear that a decision on the changes will be made in 2014.

“It is something that we are discussing,” Platini told Ouest-France when questioned on the subject of shutting down the Europa League in favour of a 64-team Champions League.

“There’s an ongoing debate about the concept of the European competitions between 2015 and 2018. It’s being discussed and a final decision will be made in 2014. Nothing has been finalised yet.”

Platini also discussed the possibility of a European super league organised outside of UEFA, stressing his belief that the concept was unsustainable.

“This is a matter that regularly comes up, but it does not worry me to be honest. I can’t see how it would work outside the framework of UEFA,” the Frenchman said.

“Who would referee the games? Where would the games be played? Do a lot of people really want it? I don’t think so.”