Manchester City’s chief executive, Ferran Soriano, has been elected to the board of the European Clubs’ Association (ECA). The ECA is an independent body recognized by FIFA and UEFA that represents the interests of Europe’s top clubs. Soriano’s appointment as the Premier League’s sole representative on the ECA’s ‘Subdivision 1’ board is a significant boost for Manchester City and their position within European football.
This comes at a crucial time for Manchester City, as they are currently facing an independent commission after being accused by the Premier League of more than 100 alleged breaches of financial fair play-related rules. However, the reigning champions have welcomed the independent review and have stated that there is “irrefutable evidence” supporting their position.
The ECA’s mission is to safeguard, strengthen, and develop the interests of European clubs in all international football affairs and decision-making. Soriano’s election to the board demonstrates Manchester City’s influence and standing within European football.
In addition to Soriano, other notable figures elected to the ECA board include Bayern Munich’s chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen, Real Sociedad’s president Jokin Aperribay, Feyenoord’s chief executive Dennis te Kloese, Marseille’s president Pablo Longoria, RB Leipzig’s Oliver Mintzlaff, and Alessandro Antonello of Inter Milan. These individuals will play a crucial role in shaping the future of European club football.
The elections took place during the ECA’s General Assembly in Berlin. During this assembly, the ECA also agreed on a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UEFA until 2030. This MoU includes a new revenue distribution cycle between 2024-27.
One significant change in the MoU is an increase in solidarity payments for non-participating clubs in the league phase of UEFA competitions. These payments will rise from four to seven percent, which is expected to secure €440 million (£377 million) per season, totaling €1.32 billion (£1.13 billion) across the new cycle period. This increase in solidarity payments aims to support Europe’s smaller teams and ensure a more equitable distribution of funds.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the chairman of the ECA, expressed his excitement about the renewed MoU, stating that it is fantastic news for all European clubs and for the stability and prosperity of European club football. The MoU formalizes agreements between UEFA and ECA on various governance, representation, regulatory, financial, and sporting matters. It establishes a solid foundation for the continued development of European club football.
Al-Khelaifi also emphasized the importance of the collaborative relationship between the ECA and UEFA, as the ECA continues to grow in size and represent clubs of all sizes across Europe. This partnership is vital for the future success and growth of European club football.
In conclusion, Ferran Soriano’s election to the board of the European Clubs’ Association is a significant achievement for Manchester City and highlights their influence within European football. The ECA’s new MoU with UEFA until 2030, including an increase in solidarity payments, will benefit clubs across Europe and contribute to the stability and prosperity of European club football. This is an exciting time for European football, and these developments will shape its future for years to come.