Two-time European champion predicts declining spectacle amid Champions League reform
The Champions League is entering a new era with a major reform that radically changes the competition. While the first kick-off of this new format is scheduled for Tuesday, the debate is lively on the repercussions it will have on the players and the quality of the spectacle. Arrigo Sacchithe legendary Italian coach, has expressed scepticism about the changes, fearing that overworking players would affect their performance and, therefore, the very appeal of the competition.
A new Champions League with 36 teams
With this overhaul, the Champions League is expanding from 32 to 36 teams, breaking with the traditional group stage to adopt a single league model. Each team will now play eight matches against different opponents, with an overall ranking that will determine who qualifies for the knockout stages. The stated aim: to increase the number of matches and therefore generate more revenue for UEFA and the clubs.
However, this increase in matches raises a central question: do more matches mean better competition or is it simply an economic strategy at the expense of the players’ health? Arrigo Sacchi is not the only one to be worried. Many fear that this intensification of the calendar does not result in a decrease in the quality of play, due to increased fatigue and injuries.
Overuse of players
Sacchi, in an interview with The Teamdoes not mince his words: “We play too much, really too much, and it will continue“According to the former coach of theAC Milaninjuries are on the rise, and it is no coincidence. The frequency of matches, with little recovery time, overloads the players. He adds that “the show suffers“, and that this could harm the attractiveness of the Champions League.
Arrigo Sacchi proposes a simple solution, but one that goes against current trends: play less to preserve the quality of the game.For me, the solution to improve the quality of play would be to play fewer matches.“, he says. Unfortunately, in a football dominated by financial imperatives, the idea of reducing the number of matches is hardly an option. Each additional match represents millions of euros in broadcast rights and commercial revenue, an argument that is difficult for governing bodies and clubs to ignore.
