From next season, UEFA will implement its new Champions League format. The European Union could seize the opportunity to invite the Saudi Al-Nasr team, one of the most popular clubs in the world thanks to its Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo.
The least we can say is that UEFA’s decisions are not unanimous. The European body was particularly criticized for its new version of the Champions League. Starting next season, the competition will be held in a new format, especially a mini-tournament where each of the 36 teams will play eight matches. The idea was surprising in a bad way. And maybe it’s not over yet. Indeed, Italian media Tuttomercatoweb, which covers the English rumours, suggests that UEFA are considering inviting a club from another continent.
UEFA is considering inviting CR7
The association, based in Nyon (Switzerland), is considering incorporating the Saudi Al-Nasr team into the picture! As you might have guessed, behind this amazing initiative lies a financial interest. The Saudi club based in the Saudi Professional League is one of the most popular clubs in the world, mainly due to the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo in its squad. The Portuguese striker’s participation in this first edition of the new Champions League will attract more people around the world. This is what the European Football Association hopes to benefit from, even if it is difficult to overcome two obstacles.
First of all, it will not be easy to put Al-Nasr in competition with clubs restricted by Financial Fair Play. The Saudi Vice Champion does not have to respect these restrictions when recruiting. I am not sure that European leaders will accept it without hesitation. We can also wonder which tournament will lose its place if the Saudi national team is indeed invited to the final table. In any case, this would be excellent news for Saudi football which will provide a great opportunity for exposure.
