ECA IN PLAY ANNUAL REPOR T 2013 - EUROPEAN CLUB ASSOCIATION
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annual report 20
ca in play
2013
eca
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in
in
play
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eca in play A n n ua l R ep o rt 2 013
annual report 2013
ay
eca
eca in play
FOOTBALL
LEADING
LEADING
THE WAY
THE WAY FOR
FOR
FOOTBALL CLUBS
FOOTBALL CLUBS
IN EUROPE
01 | Pa veliqui ium quas corecessimus ea dicietur
strength
strength
STRENGTH
& purpose
& PURPOSE
in new challenges
in new challenges
2 3
00 | contents
season
01 02 03
Message General Entering
season
from the Secretary’s new fields
ECA Chairman Report
season
2012 /13
Page 8 Page 10 Page 14
04 05 06
2012 /13
2012 /13 ECA & UEFA ECA & fifa ECA & eu
Page 22 Page 34 Page 40
07 08 09
ECA ECA Executive ECA
Organisational Board 2012/13 Membership
Structure &
Functioning
Page 46 Page 48 Page 54
10 11 12
ECA Inside Outlook Appendix
Page 64 Page 72 Page 76
4
01 | Pa veliqui ium quas corecessimus ea dicietur
passion
PASSION &&
integrity
integrity
INTEGRITY
in our actions
in our actions
6 7
01 | message from the eca chairman
01
Dear Members and Friends of ECA,
As I look back upon the past ECA season and recall the many images in my mind, I see only happy faces
filled with satisfaction and pride. I believe there are no better words to describe the spirit and atmosphere
at ECA in 2012/13.
Over the past season, we have focused our attention around our association’s five-year anniversary.
Following the signing of the MoU with UEFA at the beginning of 2012, we had no better moment to reflect
on ECA’s history and, allow me to outline, ECA’s success story so far. We have achieved a lot in a relatively
short period of time and have celebrated in style with a special and memorable event in Doha which I am sure
many of you will look back on in the future with fond memories.
However, despite the new MoU and our anniversary celebrations, ECA’s mind-set during the 2012/13 season
had already shifted, looking ahead at how to tackle new challenges. We kept the ball rolling and stayed
active as key players at the fore front of European club football. Our contribution to a variety of projects led
to successful outcomes. Much of the focus centred on the future format of UEFA’s club competitions for
2015-18 and the new club competition at European level starting in 2013/14, namely the UEFA Youth League.
We have also started some new initiatives, for example the creation of an ECA Women’s Football Committee.
This annual report provides you with the full overview of what has happened and the important decisions that
have been taken during the last ECA season.
As we enter a new ECA cycle, now is the time for thinking on future goals, we shouldn’t focus too much on
the past. The new MoU is the basis for future accomplishments - we need to build on it. Our mission is not over.
As European club football evolves and develops at a tremendous pace, the clubs’ voice is of utmost importance.
message
The 2012/13 season, provided a very good example of our strengthened relationship with UEFA. In general,
I feel that the European football family has moved closer together. It is definitely the right approach if we jointly
want to tackle the challenges which lie ahead of us, such as Financial Fair Play, the fight against racism
or the fight against match-fixing, just to name a few. We now need to work closely together – more than ever.
from
I am very pleased with recent developments at UEFA level such as former club managers joining the UEFA
Executive Committee. It is not only good news for ECA, but also underlines the importance of involving people
with distinct club football knowledge in the decision-making process – a process that directly affects the
future of European football.
message
As we complete the ECA Membership Cycle 2010-13, allow me to express my appreciation for everybody’s
commitment and attitude towards our organisation. It has been by far the most challenging period since the
creation of ECA. In particular, I would like to thank my fellow ECA Executive Board members whose term of
office is ending. Without our member clubs and the strong and engaging commitment of their representatives,
from
the eca
ECA would not be where it is today. These are the ingredients which make our association so successful and
well-respected. I believe I speak on behalf of everyone when I say that ECA is an association of extraordinarily
chairman
talented and committed players.
the eca
I thank you very much for your support to date, and I am sure ECA can count on everyone’s continued efforts
in the future.
I wish you all the very best for the new season!
chairman
chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge
ECA Chairman
8 9
02 | general secretary’s report
02
general
We continue
elaborated the competition regulations. New Executive Board Members
We
to continue
We continue
develop
to develop ne
The competition starts in 2013/14 for a
two-year trial period and fields all 32 clubs
Andrea Agnelli (Juventus) and Ivan
to develop
new ideas
Gazidis (Arsenal FC) have joined the
invited for this new challenge.
ECA Executive Board during the 2012/13
new ideas
ideas and ha
report
and have
general
season. They replaced Ernesto Paolillo and
ECA Workshop for
and have
secretary’s
David Gill, who both stepped down in their
Non-European Clubs
set
set a solid
a solid
set a solid
capacity as an ECA Board Member. Ivan
In response to the positive feedback Gazidis replaces David Gill on the UEFA
foundation
foundation
received from clubs around the world Professional Football Strategy Council.
secretary’s foundation
following ECA’s achievements, ECA decided
for the
for the
to share its experience and knowledge with 5 Year Anniversary
clubs from other confederations. 31 clubs
upcoming
forECAthe upco
The 21 January 2013 marked ECA’s
from all parts of the world were present to
upcoming
report
five-year anniversary, reason enough to
Cycle
report
learn first-hand from ECA Board Members
organise a special event in Doha, Qatar,
ECA Cycle
how ECA is organised and what such an
ECA Cycle
to celebrate with all member clubs and
organisation can bring to clubs in their
friends of ECA. No less than 153 ECA
23
relationships with their respective continental
Member Clubs found their way to Doha to
governing body. After a successful
attend the 10th ECA General Assembly and
first-ever meeting of clubs from around
reflect on the organisation’s history to date.
the world ECA intends to stay in touch with
23
all the participants present to follow the The above outlines just a few of
development of global club representation. the many events and topics ECA has
dealt with over the 2012/13 season.
ECA Women’s Football Committee ECA engages in all matters in an member clubs in
effective and dynamic manner, and with the new ECA Women’s
Dear ECA Members, cycle, ECA and UEFA discussed in detail ECA steps on new land with the creation our past and present commitment,
Football Committee
153
how to improve the competition format of the ECA Women’s Football Committee.
The 2012/13 season, marked the last I am convinced that we have set a solid
and increase the commercial interest. In view of the growing interest in women’s
season of the ECA Membership Cycle foundation for the upcoming ECA Cycle.
Eventually, discussions led to the approval professional football, the ECA Executive
2010-13 – a three-year cycle that we can As you leaf through this annual report,
of the following changes by the UEFA Board decided to create a committee
easily describe as the most important which summarises all decisions and
153
Executive Committee: for women’s football within the structure
for our association to date culminating activities that have taken place over
in the signing of the MoU with UEFA • The UEFA Europa League winners will be of ECA. The aim of this committee is to the last season, it is easy to see that
in March 2012. Many meetings and granted access to the UEFA Champions offer a platform for European women’s ECA continues to grow and develop
important topics figured on the ECA League of the subsequent season club football matters to be discussed and new ideas, in many different ways.
ECA Member clubs
Agenda with the main discussion eventually brought up at UEFA/FIFA level. After all, we are only five years old… attended the 10th ECA
• The number of teams directly qualified
being the future format of UEFA’s club The committee is chaired by Jean-Michel General Assembly in Doha
for the group stage will be increased to
competitions for 2015-18. Aulas (Olympique Lyonnais) and counts
16 teams from the top 12 associations
23 member clubs. The inaugural meeting I wish you an enjoyable read and would
The past season was further characterised (compared to the current six teams
of the committee took place in London like to take the opportunity to thank
by a number of new projects: the creation from the top six associations).
on 23 May 2013 at the UEFA Women’s everyone for their work not only over
of an ECA Women’s Football Committee, In addition, all associations will have
Champions League Final. the past season, but the entire ECA Cycle.
the establishment of a dialogue with a maximum of three teams entering
non-European clubs and the elaboration the UEFA Europa League access list
Fight Against Racism
of a European youth club competition. • Full centralisation of commercial rights I look forward to another exciting ECA
and Match-Fixing
We have entered new fields of interest, from the group stage onwards (compared season in 2013/14.
which are all set to play an important role The European football family, via the
to the current full centralisation from the
for ECA in the years to come. Professional Football Strategy Council,
knock-out stage onwards)
has decided to join forces in the fight
The highlights of the 2012/13 season can
against racism and match-fixing.
be summarised as follows: UEFA Youth League The European football stakeholders
The first European youth club Competition, endorsed two resolutions identifying
Club Competitions 2015-18 the UEFA Youth League, is ready to racism and match-fixing as a global
In order to further strengthen and increase kick off. Over the past season, the joint threat and a challenge for the sport
the appeal of the UEFA Europa League for ECA-UEFA Working Group has agreed in its entirety and presented concrete Michele Centenaro
the upcoming 2015-18 club competition on the final competition format and measures to tackle these issues. ECA General Secretary
10 11
01 | Pa veliqui ium quas corecessimus ea dicietur
openness &
inclusiveness
OPENNESS &
INCLUSIVENESS
12 in the game
in the game
13
03 | entering new fields
03 ECA Women’s Football Committee
new
In view of the growing interest in The ECA Women’s Football Committee is composed of 23 clubs, a mix of both
women’s professional football, the ECA Member Clubs with a women’s section and selected non-ECA clubs including:
ECA Executive Board decided to create
an ECA Women’s Football Committee. ECA women’s football committee members
The aim of this committee is to offer
NÖSV Neulengbach / AUT * FC Bayern München / GER
a space and platform for European
entering
women’s club football to be discussed
Standard Fémina de Liège / BEL PAOK FC / GRE
at all levels, including UEFA and FIFA.
The ECA Women’s Football Committee
AC Sparta Praha / CZE Torres Calcio / ITA *
entering
is chaired by ECA Board Member
Jean-Michel Aulas (Olympique Lyonnais)
Brøndby IF / DEN SK Liepajas Metalurgs / LVA
who reports directly to the ECA Executive
Board on the committee’s progress.
fields
Arsenal LFC / ENG Birkirkara FC / MLT
new
new
The ECA Women’s Football Committee
inaugural meeting took place at the Everton LFC / ENG FC Twente / NED
UEFA Women’s Champions League
Final held at Stamford Bridge in London Valencia CF Femenino / ESP Lillestrøm FK Kvinner / NOR
fields
on 23 May. This meeting, divided into
four parts, dealt with administration FC Levadia Tallinn / EST Zvezda-2005 / RUS *
of the committee, the UEFA Women’s
Champions League, strategic issues
fields
FC Honka Espoo / FIN ŠK Slovan Bratislava / SVK
and UEFA’s women’s football strategy –
presented by UEFA Executive Committee Olympique Lyonnais Féminin / FRA Umeå IK / SWE *
Member, Karen Espelund.
The entire meeting proved very instructive Paris Saint-Germain FC / FRA FC Zürich Frauen / SWI
and further gatherings are now scheduled
to take place over the coming season, 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam / GER *
* Non-ECA Member Clubs
with the aim of sharing expertise and
The ECA
ECA Women’s Football
knowledge amongst member clubs.
The ECA Women’sFootball
Football
We are encouraging the ECA Women’s
Football Committee to build close ties and
The Women’s
Committee
Committee
relationships with UEFA to further help the
development of women’s football in Europe. aims
aimsto
Committee aims to
to shareits
share
share it
Topics scheduled for future meetings
of the ECA Women’s Football Committee expertise and
its expertise
expertise and and
knowledge
knowledge to aid the to
knowledge
the continued to aid the con
include:
• International calendar continued growth and
• Insurance/compensation
growth
growth and
development andofdevelopment
development
women’s
women’s football
in Europein Europe
• UWCL marketing concept
football
of women’s football in Eur
ECA Women’s Football Committee
14 15
03 | entering new fields
ECA Workshop for
non-European clubs
At the 10th General Assembly, we began non-european clubs that have participated in the workshop SUPPORTING
SUPPORTING
SUPPORTING
ALL CLUBS
the process of dialogue with clubs from
outside Europe by holding our first
ECA Workshop for Non-European Clubs.
CA Boca Juniors / ARG Kashima Antlers FC / JPN
ALL
ALLCLUBS
CLUBS
WORLDWIDE
WORLDWIDE
WORLDWIDE
Our aim is to share ECA’s expertise on CA Velez Sarsfield / ARG Club Santos Laguna / MEX
club representation to the global football
Club Estudiantes IS IS
ANAN
IS AN IMPORTA
community. This has been prompted by Auckland City FC / NZL
the positive feedback we have received
from clubs around the world in relation to
de La Plata / ARG
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
NEXT STEP
NEXT
FORSTEP
Adelaide United FC / AUS Al Kharaitiyat SC / QAT
the MoU signing with UEFA in 2012.
The workshop focused on ‘the European Fluminense FC / BRA Al Rayyan Club / QAT
NEXT STEP
ECA
model of club representation’ and
FOR
FOR ECAECA
31
it allowed us to specifically share Santos FC / BRA Al-Sailiya SC / QAT
knowledge and experience gained
over the last five years with clubs from SC Corinthians Paulista / BRA El Jaish Sport Club / QAT
31
other continents. We explained in detail
how ECA is organised and what
Toronto FC / CAN Umm Slal SC / QAT
the organisation has achieved since
its creation in 2008. Furthermore, Club Social clubs from 19 countries
Al-Hilal FC / SAU participated in the first
we informed participants about ECA’s y Deportivo Colo-Colo / CHL
relationship with the governing bodies
ECA Workshop for
ASEC Mimosas / CIV Ittihad FC / SAU Non-European Clubs
UEFA and FIFA, and gave special
emphasis to how the new Memorandum Coton Sport FC
of Understanding came to be signed AD Isidro Metapán / SLV
de Garoua / CMR
between ECA and UEFA in 2012.
JS Kabylie / DZA CA Peñarol / URY
A good mix of topics such as insurance,
the international calendar and good
Al-Ahly SC / EGY FC Bunyodkor / UZB
governance made for great discussion
during the workshop and everyone in
attendance agreed that clubs around Zamalek SC / EGY FC Pakhtakor / UZB
the world should continue to work more
closely together in order to strengthen CD Marathón / HND Caracas FC / VEN
our global relationships.
Support to all clubs worldwide is Gamba Osaka / JPN
important and we have committed
to being available to answer further
questions as they arise on club
representation at a continental level.
We are planning future gatherings
to continue this new start at fostering
exchange between the most prestigious
clubs around the world.
In total, 31 clubs from Africa, North America,
South America, Asia, and Oceania attended
the workshop in Doha, Qatar.
ECA Workshop participants
16 1703 | entering new fields
uefa youth league
The UEFA Youth League is making its We met on several occasions over the past Match Dates and Kick-Off Times UEFA Youth League Finals
debut in the 2013/14 season. This new season as part of a dedicated working Objectives
Unless the teams and UEFA agree The semi-finals and final of the first
club competition has been established group comprised of representatives from The main objectives for the otherwise, group stage matches, round UEFA Youth League competition are
following unanimous support from the ECA, UEFA and EPFL in order to fine-tune UEFA Youth League as defined of 16 matches and quarter-finals are to set to take place at Colovray Stadium
European football family for the concept the overall concept and regulations for by the working group: be played in UEFA Champions League in Nyon, Switzerland. The date for
of creating a European club competition the competition. Proposals were submitted
• Further develop youth football match weeks. In the group stage, the semi-finals is 11 April 2014 and
for youth players. Its primary aim is to to the Club Competitions Committee
at a professional club level the teams, in principle, are to play their the final match of the 2013/14 UEFA
offer young club players competitive for endorsement before being passed
matches in conjunction with those Youth League planned for 14 April 2014.
experience on an international stage, and onto the UEFA Executive Committee, • Reduce the gap between
of their senior teams on either Tuesday
it is hoped this opportunity will promote which in June 2012 approved and formally youth and first team players’ We look forward to the start of the first
or Wednesday in order to increase
further youth development in clubs and endorsed the UEFA Youth League. performance competition and know that exciting
the learning process of the experience.
bridge the gap between youth and first matches, supportive fans and, most
• Offer international experience If both teams and UEFA agree, matches
team football. Competition System importantly, a great learning experience is
and competitive matches may also be played on Monday or waiting for the young players of tomorrow.
The UEFA Youth League is an Under-19 Teams must play a group phase with • Reduce the costs of transfers Thursday. With the exception of matches
competition and is open to the 32 youth the same group composition and similar and salaries for first teams that are televised, home teams are free
teams from clubs qualifying for the group calendar as the UEFA Champions to decide on kick-off times.
aagreat
great learning
a greatlearning
stage of the 2013/14 UEFA Champions League. The knock-out phase consists A similar fixture list to that of the UEFA
League. To ensure the UEFA Youth of single-leg ties, meaning a maximum In general, the competition is based
learning
experience is
Champions League can help clubs with
League runs alongside the existing club on a flexible approach, meaning
experience is waiting
total of 10 matches for any one team.
experience is
logistical matters and allow travelling
competition cycle, which ends after the Semi-finals and final are to be played no stringent rules as to player
waiting for the
supporters the first-hand opportunity
2014/15 season, the competition format in the form of a ‘final tournament’ at eligibility (Under-19 rule with no
waiting for the
for theplayers
young players
of seeing the youth team playing for their
runs concurrently for two years before a neutral venue. minimum age limit), stadium facilities
clubs. Keeping the youth and first team
young
young players
a review. The trophy for the competition or match dates and kick-off times.
ties closely scheduled gives the chance
of tomorrow
is named after Lennart Johansson,
of tomorrow
to showcase the best of club football,
of tomorrow
UEFA honorary president.
today and tomorrow’s talent, to everyone.
Financial Provisions
For the group phase, round of 16 and promote
promote further
furtheryouth
promote
developmentfurther youth
quarter-finals, the home club retains
GROUP STAGE • Based on draw for UEFA Champions League group stage A B C D 2 legs its revenue (ie sale of tickets, sale of
youth development
development
ininclubs
clubs inbridge
and clubs
bridgeand
refreshments, sale of concessions)
32 TEAMS
96 MATCHES
• 32 teams in eight groups of four
• Top two in each group advance
E F G H and pays all match organisational costs and
(ie rental of match stadium, floodlighting,
the gap
the between
gap between
ROUND OF 16 • Group winners vs runners-up
rental of training ground for the visiting
bridge
youththe
andgap between
first
youth and first
club, installations for the TV production).
16 TEAMS
8 MATCHES
• Home teams: winners of the group The home club also ensures the
transportation of the visiting team youth and first
team football
teamteam football
maximum 10 matches
football
delegation from their arrival in the city
of the match until their departure.
32
QUARTER-FINAL • Open draw
U-19
8 TEAMS • Home team determined by the draw The travel and accommodation costs
of the visiting team are met by UEFA
Single-leg
4 MATCHES
on the basis of the reimbursement
32 U–19
policy. The difference between the UEFA
SEMI-FINAL • Open draw contribution and the effective travel
4 TEAMS • Neutral venue and accommodation costs are to be met
2 MATCHES by the visiting team. youth teams Under-19 competition
For the semi-finals and final, UEFA
FINAL • Neutral venue undertake all organisational duties and
2 TEAMS pay all related costs.
1 MATCH
Total: 111 matches
18 1901 | Pa veliqui ium quas corecessimus ea dicietur
courage
courage &
commitment
COURAGE &
COMMITMENT
20
in each seaso
In each season
2104 | eca & uefa
04 message from the uefa president
ECA
Dear ECA Executive Board and ECA Members,
Thank you for the invitation to address you in this annual report.
It has been another great year of UEFA club competitions. No club has been able to retain the top club trophy
since 1990 and we saw a wonderful UEFA Champions League final between two German teams in London.
Does this all-German final represent a shift in power across the continent? Maybe, but maybe not – we
have also seen two Spanish, two Italian and two English teams in the final in recent years. Still, it is perhaps
symbolic of the current strength of German football, based on good youth development, solid finances,
uefa
strong involvement of supporters, and a constructive co-operation between association, league and clubs.
ECA
We also witnessed a great UEFA Europa League competition, culminating with the final in Amsterdam, and
Chelsea edging Benfica. The competition goes from strength to strength and will see its role further enhanced
in future: as of 2015, the Europa League winner will enter the Champions League, more clubs and countries
will have guaranteed places in the group stage, and there will be increased centralised marketing.
In August we had the first single-leg UEFA Super Cup held outside of Monaco, in Prague, and the match brought
ECA
UEFA club competition finals to new parts of Europe – to those cities and countries that would perhaps
not normally be able to stage a major European final. This season we also have a new club competition to look
forward to: the UEFA Youth League, providing a European club stage for the very best of our young talents.
& UEFA
Last but not least the UEFA Women’s Champions League saw Wolfsburg overcome favourites Olympique
& UEFA
Lyonnais in the London final to become the third different German team in five years to win the trophy.
Women’s football is rapidly growing across our continent (and indeed the world) and it is encouraging to see
the creation of an ECA Women’s Football Committee.
Alongside the pure competition aspects, we have had many off-field issues to deal with as well. We now
have the introduction of the break-even element of Financial Fair Play, and the Club Financial Control Body
has already had to sanction clubs, and even exclude clubs from UEFA club competitions for not paying
their bills on time. There have unfortunately also been further incidences of racism and match-fixing, dealt with
by UEFA’s Disciplinary Organs.
New issues constantly appear: right now we are evaluating the issue of ‘third-party ownership’ of players, and
what it means for our competitions and for European football more broadly. Our structures and processes are
evolving to meet these challenges and the only thing that is certain is that there will be more in future. We will do
our best to deal with all issues as and when they arise, and we know that we can rely on ECA to do its part too.
Yours in football,
UEFA
Michel Platini
UEFA President
22 2304 | eca & uefa
Professional Football
Strategy Council
Harmonisation of Player The PFSC recommendations, ratified by the UEFA Executive Committee at its meeting Harmonisation of Start and End Third-Party Ownership Given the different implications for
Registration Periods on 28 March 2013, are as follows: Dates of National (League/Cup) ECA Member Clubs, we informed UEFA
‘Third-party ownership’ (TPO) appears to
National associations are responsible
Competitions be a worldwide phenomenon. TPO relates
that we are not in a position to support
an immediate TPO ban and certainly not
for player registration periods – also Summer Transfer Window Winter Transfer Window The PFSC has discussed the introduction to a football player registered to play for a
before a consultation with our members.
known as transfer windows. The PFSC of fixed start and end dates for national club where third-party interest (individual
• Closes 31 August at 24.00 CET • Decision to keep status quo – EPFL is in agreement with our view,
has received requests to harmonise competitions in Europe. and/or company) exists in the financial
no harmonisation of the winter however, FIFPro is in favour of a complete
the end dates of the registration periods • Deadline moves to next working benefit from any future transfer value.
window date Due to the heterogeneity of national TPO ban.
for players in Europe. day if 31 August falls on weekend
competitions (ie number of participants, UEFA President Michel Platini firmly
or bank holiday • No further restrictions on The PFSC accepts that from an ethical
In 2002, UEFA recommended all climatic conditions, national traditions) believes that TPO has no place in football
the number of players transferred standpoint a human being (ie a player)
national associations to fix the end • National associations or leagues, the PFSC deems that it is not possible and UEFA is very vocal in opposing
by clubs cannot be ‘owned’. The decision has
dates of their respective transfer in principle, may close the to harmonise start dates. As regards the concept of TPO, alternatively
registration period earlier • Agreement that winter transfer been made therefore to study TPO
windows at 31 January and 31 August. end dates, the new international match described as ‘third-party investment’.
(but not later) than the 31 August window needs to be a part in greater detail including the various
However, the recommendation did not calendar prompts the UEFA Champions UEFA’s main concern is the integrity
of the wider discussion ways TPO operates in Europe, TPO’s
meet unanimous implementation, leading With regards to moving League Final to be pushed back one of the sporting competition and the moral
surrounding the transfer system international implications, the percentage
to requests for the PFSC to harmonise the current deadline: week, thus creating a ‘natural’ end date and ethical questions arising from TPO.
of clubs directly affected by banning TPO
player registration periods. The PFSC for national competitions; due to the
• Bringing forward the current In the international player transfer system, and others.
also received questions on whether Champions League final weekend being
deadline (31 August) offers no FIFA is ultimately responsible for any
to bring forward, in line with the start followed by a release period for national
real advantage due to all leagues control measures on TPO. In Europe, Club Academies in Foreign Countries
of national championships, the end team matches (ie double-date, UEFA
having different start times UEFA is striving to ban clubs from UEFA
date of the summer transfer window EURO, FIFA World Cup). UEFA member associations have voiced
competitions if their squads include
to 1 or 15 August. • Bringing forward the current concerns that larger clubs are creating
The UEFA Executive Committee agrees players under TPO. A ban already exists
deadline (31 August) prevents football academies and schools in
In principle, PFSC stakeholders agree with the proposal made by the PFSC in some European countries (ie France,
clubs making adjustments to their countries outside of their respective
that a harmonised end date is necessary and has made the recommendation* England) and UEFA is urging FIFA to take
campaign during pre-season club’s origin.
both for the summer and the winter that for all UEFA member associations, the necessary steps to introduce global
training, especially in countries
transfer windows, including a clearly and their affiliated leagues, the end date TPO controls. Most academy initiatives are short-term
having late start times
defined and harmonised end time for national club competitions should (ie summer period only), independently
So far, FIFA only prohibits TPO if it
applying to all national associations • Bringing forward the current be no later than the weekend of run programs that do not align with
induces outside influence over matters
and leagues. deadline (31 August) does the UEFA Champions League Final any national association’s grassroots
of employment and/or team performance
not allow clubs (especially (or the last available weekend before initiatives. These so called ‘club
During PFSC discussions, we expressed (as per Article 18bis of the Regulations
middle-sized and small-sized the FIFA international window). academies in foreign countries’ are
our support in favour of keeping 31 August on the Status and Transfer of Players).
clubs participating in the European viewed as being in direct competition
as the end date. Our reasoning: Even though this is a subject directly
play-offs) to sell and adjust with local clubs, and as such, the PFSC
31 August gives clubs the opportunity * Recommendation effective as of the 2014/15 under FIFA’s responsibility, UEFA could
finances in line with the Financial is investigating the issue further.
to balance finances in respect to season for all national championships following still stipulate regulations for its own
Fair Play rules
qualification for the group stage of a the winter season model. competitions. In such cases, a necessary In an official letter, FIFA asked ECA for
European competition. adjustment period and transitional assistance in collecting information.
measures would need to be introduced. Specifically, FIFA requires details
In order to allow for an official position on the number of academies run
from the PFSC, UEFA invited all European by our members on territories outside
football stakeholders to express their views of the club’s origin. Feedback from our
Mutual respect, co-operation
on TPO. We made clear that the ECA members has indicated club initiatives
Mutual respect,co-operation
co-operation
agrees that TPO practises cause numerous are primarily marketing activities.
The ‘club academies in foreign countries’
Mutual respect, negative implications. In principle, we share
andand
fairness: these words
help develop the club’s brand outside
and fairness: these words
the concerns of UEFA and acknowledge
fairness: these words the need for action on TPO. However, of the home country. In general, from our
research, ECA Member Clubs have
characterise
characterise the
characterise the close-working
close-working
we also recognise the complications
the close-working and consequences to our members if new no issue with this practice.
relationship between ECA and UEFA rulings dictate how TPO operates. For What does need addressing is the proper
relationshipbetween
relationship between ECAECAand
andUEFA
UEFA
example, in Portugal, TPO arrangements
are common practice and fundamental to
definition of the term and issues.
the survival of Portuguese clubs.
24 2504 | eca & uefa
The term ‘club academies in foreign The detailed information generated PFSC Resolution Against Racism • Calls on the players and coaches – PFSC Working Group
countries’ encompasses many from proper implementation of these namely those with most influence on Transfer Matters
The PFSC unanimously adopted a
different types of activities undertaken recommendations enables stakeholders on the perpetrators of racist acts –
resolution aimed at combatting racism As a consequence of the European
by clubs abroad: to accurately reassess this issue in the to speak out even if this means
and discrimination in football at its Commission publishing its commissioned
• Summer camps of less than one future. The UEFA Executive Committee criticising their own fans or players
meeting in Sofia on 27 March 2013. study titled ‘The Economic and Legal
month, independent or partnering supports all recommendations of the
• Calls on the state authorities Aspects of Transfers of Players’ (see ECA
PFSC, and invites UEFA member The PFSC supports a zero tolerance
local clubs (ie governments, law enforcement and EU section for more details), and the
associations and their affiliated clubs policy in combatting racism and
• Year-round partnerships with local agencies, etc) to play their part by subsequent complaints by FIFPro about
to begin implementing the procedures, discrimination in football and is stepping
clubs for youth development programs providing the football bodies with the this study, the PFSC decided to create
as outlined, as soon as possible. up the fight against racism. The recent
necessary legal means; and acting a working group on transfer matters.
• Permanent youth academies run resolution includes the following:
and emphasising arrest, prosecution
independently of local clubs PFSC Resolution on Match-Fixing The working group discussed any
• Notes that the current education/ and bans from stadia for significant
issues that stakeholders may consider
National associations have, until The rapid development of football’s prevention measures, as well as periods on those responsible for racist
as problematic in the way the current
now, rarely been informed of clubs gambling markets, particularly online the existing disciplinary framework, acts. The exchange of information
transfer system operates. All stakeholders
engaging in academy-type activities betting, has coincided with an increasing have improved the situation compared regarding racist activities between
agreed that respect of contracts is a
in foreign countries. As such, there is number of ‘match-fixing’ scandals. to the past but are still not preventing states and football bodies should also
critical issue within the current transfer
a lack of precise statistics and the full recurrent incidents of racism be improved
While there is no proof, or direct link, system and that any non-respect of
extent of the phenomenon is difficult to gambling the fact is matches are • Recognises that many countries have The PFSC acknowledges that racism contracts must be addressed.
to measure. To tackle this problem, being manipulated for sporting, financial taken significant and successful action is one form of discrimination, but
the PFSC is formulating the following Parties were also asked to identify and
or other reasons. Match-fixing, in any but that racism incidents are still that, unfortunately, other forms of
recommendations: prioritise any other items they wished
form, jeopardises both the integrity of widespread in our continent discrimination also manifest themselves
to discuss. We presented our views
competition and strikes at the very heart • Calls on UEFA, national associations from time to time in football. It therefore
1. Summer camps on further topics such as solidarity
of football’s soul. and leagues to legislate for stricter has expressed its full and unconditional
(duration of less than one month) contributions and training compensation,
sanctions in relation to racism opposition to any form of discrimination.
Organisations within the PFSC have first professional contracts, squad-size
Clubs wishing to organise such camps
joined forces to tackle the threat of • Calls on disciplinary bodies to apply Following the endorsement of the above limits, soft salary caps, dispute resolution
for young players in another country
match-fixing. An action plan is now ready any stricter sanctions in cases of resolution, UEFA has introduced its first chambers and FIFA Regulations.
should inform the local national
for implementation by all members of proven racism and to seek ways of concrete steps by establishing stronger
association accordingly
the European football family. It features obliging those sanctioned to take future sanctions. These are reflected in a
concrete initiatives on education, preventive action resolution endorsed by UEFA’s member
Match-fixing
Match-fixing
Match-fixing jeopard
2. Year-round partnerships with local
prevention, monitoring, and disciplinary associations at the UEFA Congress
clubs for youth development programs • Re-iterates the recommendation
sanctions. Take-up of the plan’s in London on 24 May 2013.
that competition organisers in Europe
Clubs should inform the relevant recommendations is an absolute priority.
jeopardises both
both the integrity of
apply the guidelines issued by UEFA ECA is fully committed to step up the
national associations of their It protects football’s stakeholders and
in how to deal with racist incidents fight against racism in football. Racism jeopardises both
co-operation at youth level. underlines the need for a zero tolerance
during matches and discriminatory conduct cannot be
the
theintegrity
integrityof
of
competition and th
policy to match-fixing. tolerated. As regards the introduction
competition and
• Recommends and fully supports referees
3. Permanent youth academies
run independently of local clubs
The appendix expands on the
recommendations or download the full
to stop matches in cases of racism
of stronger, standard and mandatory
sanctions (ie a minimum ten match
competition and
verythe very
As per article 19bis of the FIFA position paper at www.ecaeurope.com
and calls on national associations and
leagues to do the same
suspension for any player or team
official found guilty of racist conduct)
the veryheart
heartof
regulations on the Status and
of football’s soul
• Calls on national associations, leagues,
football’s soul
heart of football’s
Transfer of Players, the club should we expected to be consulted by UEFA
clubs and player unions to review and as any sanctions have a direct affect
register the academy and its players
improve their measures for education on clubs and their players. On this point,
zero
with the national association where
in relation to racism we have informed UEFA that ECA hopes
the academy is implemented
(also recommended: the implementation • Commits itself to further support and the judicial bodies dealing with any
of such academies should be subject strengthen the current anti-racism racism incidents take into account the
zero
to prior approval by the relevant initiatives at both European and specific facts of each case (ie nature
national association). national level of the alleged incident, the seriousness
of the incident, the efforts undertaken
by clubs or the systems put in place tolerance policy in combatting
by clubs to combat racism), in the hope racism and discrimination
that there is no blanket imposition of in football
standard sanctions.
26 2704 | eca & uefa
club competitions committee
Club Competition Distribution Club Competition Format 2015-18 clubs’ point of view. 87 member clubs Based on this feedback, the ECA
UEFA Champions League from 36 different national associations Competitions Working Group thoroughly
At the end of the season, UEFA announced With the first season of the 2012-15
Domestic champion club (not qualified for group stage) responded to our survey, and a summary discussed the matter and possible
the latest financial figures in relation to competition cycle underway, discussions
€ 200’000 of the results is as follows: scenarios. A joint ECA/UEFA working
the 2012/13 UEFA Champions League. about the next 2015-18 cycle have
group comprised of representatives
In total, the UEFA Champions League
generated approximately € 1.38bn
Participating clubs Q1 (not qualified for group stage)
€ 150’000 (+ € 10’000)
already started.
With UEFA planning to start the sales
75% expressed their ‘satisfaction’ from the UEFA Club Competitions
Committee looked at the issues in
or ‘extreme satisfaction’ with the
in commercial revenues (see appendix process for broadcasters and sponsors more depth, as to the feasibility and
current structure/format of UEFA’s
for full club share distribution lists) Participating clubs Q2 (not qualified for group stage) mid-2013, decisions as to the future possible effects of certain scenarios.
club competitions
meaning that it generated a net surplus € 175’000 (+ € 35’000) formats and commercial concepts of both To address commercial aspects, a joint
of approximately € 28m. The Club
Competitions Committee decided to Clubs eliminated in Q3
competitions had to be taken. The focus
for the Club Competitions Committee
92% believed that the UEFA ECA Marketing/Competitions Task Force
held a dedicated meeting in order to
€ 200’000 (+ € 60’000) Champions League and the UEFA Europa
distribute € 18m to the UEFA Champions during the 2012/13 season focussed establish a comprehensive club position
League should continue to exist in parallel
League clubs in line with the surplus on the future formats and commercial on commercial matters.
distribution procedure in previous
seasons (55% Fixed Amounts;
concept of both the UEFA Champions
League and the UEFA Europa League. 61% would welcome offering On the basis of our internal survey
and the initial ideas from the ECA
45% Market Pool). The remaining € 10m UEFA Europa League the UEFA Europa League winners direct
As the success story of the UEFA Competitions Working Group and
is to be distributed to the UEFA Europa Participating clubs Q1 access to the UEFA Champions League
Champions League continues, the ECA Marketing Task Force, the
League Clubs (60% Fixed Amounts; group stage
€ 120’000 (+ € 20’000) both from a sporting and financial point dedicated ECA/UEFA working group
40% Market Pool). This subsidy, together In summary, the results of the survey
of view, the UEFA Europa League still evaluated many different proposals and
with the shift of € 40m that already Participating clubs Q2 clearly show that European clubs, in
finds itself in a development phase. their recommendations were eventually
took place at the start of the season, € 130’000 (+ € 30’000) principle, are very happy with the current
The competition has shown major endorsed by the Club Competitions
helps to further balance out the financial competitions and do not wish to see
progress since its rebranding in 2009, Committee and presented to the UEFA
gap between both competitions. Participating clubs Q3 major changes to their structure/format.
but there is still room for improvement. Executive Committee for decision-
UEFA informed ECA that the € 10m € 140’000 (+ € 40’000) The UEFA Europa League remains a The option whereby the winners of the
making. The UEFA Executive Committee
provision foreseen for the insurance fundamental competition, and a much UEFA Europa League automatically qualify
approved the proposals at its meeting
will not be needed in the 2013/14 Clubs eliminated in the play-offs appreciated one by the so-called ‘middle for the UEFA Champions League group
in London on 23 May 2013.
season, as FIFA has taken over the € 150’000 (+ € 50’000) and small’ clubs. The financial gap stage of the next season raised some
insurance. As a result, the UEFA Club between both competitions is significant interest and support, provided the effects
Competitions Committee decided to – resulting in limited interest in the on the access list are carefully considered.
allocate the amount of € 10m for solidarity competition from top market clubs and
payments for the qualifying rounds of ultimately, as a result, from spectators.
the competitions. A staggered approach In order to strengthen the UEFA Europa
is to be used, meaning that the amount League for the future, we have reviewed,
paid to the clubs increases with each in collaboration with UEFA, the current
qualification round. competition concept and discussed
possible scenarios that could help
the UEFA Champions League
improve its current situation.
the UEFA Champions League
the UEFA Champions League
generated approximately
The reason to look into new opportunities
for the 2015-18 cycle is two-fold. Firstly,
generated approximately
generated approximately€ 1.38bn the aim is to increase the appeal of the
€€ 1.38bninin commercial
competition and encourage clubs to field
1.38bn commercial their first team so that all teams play to
in commercial
revenues revenues
revenues meaning
meaning
meaning
full potential. Secondly, there is still great
potential for increasing the competition’s
a net surplus
a net surplus of
of value by adapting the commercial
a net surplus
approximately € 28m
of concept and the access list.
approximately
approximately €€28m 28m
Before the actual consultation phase with
UEFA, we asked ECA Member Clubs
UEFA Club Competitions Committee
to participate in an internal ECA survey
so that we could better understand the
28 2904 | eca & uefa
other uefa matters
The key principles for the new club competition cycle starting in 2015/16 are as follows: Financial Fair Play that covered the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Disciplinary Regulations
financial years.
We have entered the crucial phase At its meeting in London in May 2013,
UEFA Europa League winners More teams to directly qualify for New commercial concepts of the Financial Fair Play era as the Of the 38 clubs that participated, the UEFA Executive Committee approved
break-even requirement comes into force 19 clubs showed a break-even surplus, the new UEFA Disciplinary Regulations,
will be granted access to UEFA Europa League group stage
and the first assessment begins during five clubs showed a breakeven deficit in force from 1 June 2013 in replacement
the UEFA Champions League
For the UEFA Europa League, the 2013/14 season. of less than € 5m, eight clubs showed of the 2012 edition.
The number of teams directly the UEFA Executive Committee a break-even deficit between € 5m and
Together with UEFA, we have continued Before final approval of the new
The winners of the UEFA Europa qualified for the group stage is approved the full centralisation of € 45m and six clubs showed a break-even
to collaborate closely on a variety of regulations, we undertook with UEFA a
League are to receive direct access to increase to 16 teams from the commercial rights from the group deficit exceeding € 45m. The aggregate
matters in relation to Financial Fair Play. detailed consultation process. Members
to the play-offs of the subsequent top 12 associations (compared to stage onwards. breakeven deficit for the financial years
Since the creation of the UEFA Club of the ECA Legal Advisory Panel met with
UEFA Champions League season. the current six teams from the top 2009 and 2010 was € 286m.
Financial Control Panel (now CFCB – Club the UEFA Head of Disciplinary so that
six associations). Financial Control Body) in September The test-phase proved a very good comments and ideas could be collated
Currently, the commercial rights
2009, many assessments have already educational platform for all parties on possible amendments to the UEFA
Should the UEFA Champions for the UEFA Europa League are
taken place on clubs’ compliance with (UEFA, CFCB, licensors and clubs) and Disciplinary Regulations, many inputs
League title-holders qualify for Associations ranked 1-4 are to each only centralised from the knock-out
the ‘no overdue payables’ requirement has allowed for a fine-tuning of the IT being based on comments received from
the Champions League via their have two clubs directly qualified to stage. Initial projections for the new
and the ‘break-even’ requirement for tool and a frank exchange of information various ECA Member Clubs.
domestic league, thus freeing up UEFA Europa League group stage commercial concept 2015-18 estimate
the soft-implementation phase. Despite between UEFA and the clubs. In order to
a place in the UEFA Champions while associations ranked 5-12 each the revenues derived from central The new UEFA Disciplinary Regulations,
the number of imposed sanctions in ensure clubs were prepared in the best
League group stage, the UEFA have one club participating in the sponsorship could be in the region in general, are designed to meet three
relation to the ‘no overdue payables’ rule way possible for the upcoming tasks with
Europa League Winners may gain group stage. This measure allows of € 50m (in comparison to the current basic objectives:
in the past season, it must be noted regards to the break-even assessment,
direct access to the group stage. UEFA to approach broadcasters € 18m), allowing the overall income for
that since this rule entered into force, together with UEFA, we called for a • Adapt disciplinary proceedings to the
As an effect of the UEFA Europa during the sales process with the UEFA Europa League to increase
with stringent monitoring, the overdue practical training session on the FFP current needs of clubs and national
League winners qualifying for a guaranteed participation of a to approximately € 290m (+29% in
payables in June 2012 improved by 47% IT tool at the beginning of June. The associations, and ensure a clear and
the UEFA Champions League, certain number of clubs per market. comparison to 2012-15 cycle).
(in comparison to June 2011), meaning workshop aimed to familiarise the Club more secure legal framework (ie the new
the current limit of a maximum Furthermore, the slight adaptation regulations foresee different recidivism
transfer fees and salaries were being paid Financial Directors with the software,
four teams per association will be to the access list allows for a periods for different kinds of offences,
The UEFA Champions League also in a more timely manner. which had been designed to help all
increased to five (applies to the top maximum of three teams per contain new provisions regarding the
sees minor changes to the commercial clubs submit the necessary information
three national associations only). association to enter the UEFA Europa The ECA Financial Fair Play Panel met
concept for its new competition cycle. in the most efficient way. liability of clubs for match organisation,
League access list (see appendix with Jean-Luc Dehaene, Chief Investigator
This means the number of teams in The current 6+2 sponsorship and strengthen the roles of written
for updated access list). of the CFCB, to evaluate and discuss More than 50 ECA Member Clubs took
the UEFA Champions League from concept (6 partners + 2 suppliers) submissions during appeal procedures)
the so-called soft-implementation test up this opportunity and attended the
the top three association increases is very likely to move to a 7+1 concept, • Reinforce UEFA’s position concerning
phase. 38 clubs from 19 different countries workshop in order to clarify any doubts
to five when: which, alongside some product the fight against racism based on
voluntarily participated in this test phase they still had in relation to the tool.
• The UEL title-holder is not qualified enhancements (ie production, digital the principle of zero tolerance (ie a
to UCL via the league media, LED perimeter boards, etc), suspension of 10 matches for any
all helps to generate additional person, officials, players, etc, acting
• The UCL title-holder is not qualified
revenues. The projections forecast in a racist manner; a partial stadium
to UCL via the league.
a 15% increase in total UEFA closure in case of supporters engaging
Champions League revenues. in racist behaviour; and in the case of
If the UEFA Europa League title-holder recidivism, a fine of € 50’000 plus one
and the UEFA Champions League match played behind closed doors)
title-holder are from the same • Provide the UEFA disciplinary bodies
association, and both are not qualified with specific competences in matters
to UEFA Champions League via relating to corruption and match-fixing,
the league, the fourth-placed team As the UEFA Champions League continues to flourish, and with the UEFA Europa allowing them to tackle match-fixing
in the league will have to move League now further strengthened for the next competition cycle, we hope the appeal more effectively at national level
to UEFA Europa League. from clubs and supporters alike continues to increase for both competitions. (ie non-UEFA competitions)
As the new UEFA Disciplinary
The winner of the 2014/15 UEFA Regulations include some important
Europa League is the first team changes, we encourage all our members
to benefit from this new rule. to familiarise themselves with this new
version. The document is available for
Workshop on FFP IT tool download at www.ecaeurope.com
30 3101 | Pa veliqui ium quas corecessimus ea dicietur
respect
respect &
humility
RESPECT
& HUMILITY in
all decisions
In all decisions
32 3305 | eca & fifa
05
ECA
relationship with fifa
Since the renewed Memorandum of During the FIFA Executive Committee We can report that the ECA Executive
Understanding (MoU) with UEFA in meeting in Zurich on 21 March 2013, Board, while expressing surprise for
March 2012, ECA has sought a similar we hoped for some new momentum the postponement, has decided to take
MoU with FIFA, the world governing body. and this appeared possible with a topic no further action with regards seeking
The ECA Executive Board proactively on the agenda titled ‘Memorandum of a MoU with FIFA.
fifa
engaged in several discussions and Understanding with ECA’. However, whilst
concrete proposals – especially with FIFA reaffirmed its intent to conclude
ECA
regard to club involvement in FIFA’s a MoU in line with previous discussions,
decision-making process and club they informed us that any decision on a
remuneration from the FIFA World Cup – MoU has now been postponed until 2014.
but to date there has been no progress.
ECA club protection programme
& fifa
& fifa
The Club Protection Programme (CPP)
came into effect for UEFA EURO 2012 in Losses
Poland/Ukraine. UEFA met the expense Number of reported losses in total
of the initial period (15 May to 31 August) 52
and covered the injury risk of players from
European clubs. From 1 September 2012, Losses admitted
following approval by the FIFA Congress (including five without prejudice and compromise settlements)
in Budapest in May 2012, CPP is now in 48
effect worldwide at FIFA’s expense.
Losses pending
CPP is the result of our long negotiations
(further medical/salary information requested)
and close co-operation with UEFA
4
and FIFA. We as part of a joint working
group, supplemented by risk advisors Losses declined
from FIFA and UEFA, agreed the scope 0
of cover, important definitions, and key
conditions; including parameters important
to the clubs. CPP in our view is a major
innovation and promotes better dialogue Daily salary of injured player (EUR)
and co-operation for the release of players. Lowest salary
Statistics now available for the first year 57
of CPP illustrate the findings of losses for
Highest salary
the period 15 May 2012 to 31 March 2013
20’952
inclusive. These cover all clubs releasing
players for International A-matches on
dates listed in the international match
calendar and the 2012 Olympic Games.
34 35You can also read
