Nations League: "European clubs do not oppose such a project" (ECA)

"The European clubs do not oppose such a project, as the number of international matches in the calendar remains unchanged. Once more details concerning the competition format are available, ECA will analyse the possible impact on club football," said the European Club Association on 27/03/2014, about the UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) Nations League, to be introduced from 2018.

The launch of a Nations League from 2018, was adopted by the 54 member associations of the European body at the end of its annual conference in Astana (Kazakhstan), on 27/03/2014. The competition will feature promotion and relegation, will see a winning team every odd year and will replace most international friendlies.

"A positive aspect of this new concept is that our players will no longer have to travel around the world for friendly matches. I am not worried about the Champions League; it is a prime product and the Europa League as well will continue to flourish," said Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, chairman of the ECA on 27/03/2014.