BATTLE OF GIANTS BEGINS

Amid talk of revamp, Europe’s biggest names start Champions League assault

While the battle for the Champions League of the future is fought behind the scenes, this week the continent’s biggest clubs begin their latest quest for European glory with holders Liverpool dreaming of reaching another final in Istanbul.

The current 32-team group stage format leading to a knockout round of 16 was introduced in 2003. Since then, an ever smaller group of clubs has competed to win the trophy, with the last 15 champions coming from Spain, England, Germany or Italy.

There is a consensus that it is time for a change, and the European

Club Association, chaired by Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli, has been busy working with UEFA on plans to completely revamp the competition from 2024.

“We are confident of finding a good format for after 2024 that includes of course the big clubs, mid-size countries and also a possibility for, let’s say, the smaller countries but also with history to find their place in the European football scene,” said Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar last week.

Meanwhile, for the likes of Agnelli’s Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, the Champions League has become the be all and end all due to a lack of competition domestically.

It is easy to see why they might like more games against the best teams from around Europe, along with more money.

For now, the Champions League winners stand to take home around €75 million (RM349 million). On top of that will be added considerable sums from television along with money depending on each team’s UEFA ranking.

This rewards past success, guaranteeing the top-ranked team, Real Madrid, a further €35.46 million euros. For holders Liverpool that added figure is nearer €27 million euros.

The financial strength of the Premier League’s top clubs means they are less eager for change to the Champions League, and it also helps explain why all four European finalists last season were English.

After beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in Madrid to lift their sixth European Cup, can Liverpool reach a third straight final? This season’s showpiece will be played in Istanbul, scene of their remarkable triumph in 2005.

Liverpool begin their campaign in Italy against Napoli in one of the standout early ties. There are plenty of games to whet the appetite, although the genuine, meaningful drama will not arrive until the knockout rounds.

The Champions League may be ripe for a revamp, but it remains the pinnacle in club football.