Celtic will miss out on Europe if this drastic change is made – reports
By Matt Farr
Celtic could lose their right to play in European competitions if plans for a major Champions League revamp go ahead, according to reports.
UEFA have been planning a major revamp of the Champions League, which could see the competition prioritise the richest clubs in Europe, meaning the likes of Manchester United and Real Madrid would leave Celtic behind.
However, many of Europe’s elite sides are believed to have sided against the proposed changes, which could see them break away to form their own league – a European Super League.
Many key members of the Scottish Professional Football League (SPLF) have voiced their concerns over the potentially drastic changes, including chief executive Neil Doncaster.
Doncaster believes that the plans would ‘threaten the future of top-level football’ and that UEFA had embarked upon a ‘very dangerous route’.
Marca claim that 11-time European champions Real Madrid are determined to push through plans for a new competition for the continent’s elite, after becoming disgruntled with the running of La Liga.
The Daily Record, meanwhile, report that Real Madrid’s frustrations could have major implications for Celtic in the long-term, as both a Champions League reshuffle and a move to a European Super League could end the Scottish club’s participation in Europe.
Alongisde Doncaster, Celtic chief Peter Lawwell has also sought to fight the proposed changes. However, they are likely to face a much tougher battle over the coming seasons, particularly if Real Madrid get the ball rolling.
Marca believe that the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United, Milan, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain would all be in favour of joining an elite league.
Scottish rivals Rangers, meanwhile, would also be affected by the change.
In other Celtic news, this is why Celtic must start their search for two new top strikers immediately.
We’ve launched an << EXCLUSIVE TRANSFER WINDOW NEWS FEED>>. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Celtic transfer news