By Andrew Warshaw
September 10 – Kosovo’s hopes of playing international football have been raised by UEFA President Michel Platini hinting that a favourable solution might be found in the next couple of months.
The Balkan state declared independence in 2008 but has been in the football wilderness since it is not recognised by the United Nations (UN).
Because of that, under UEFA statutes, it is not allowed to play in European competitions.
Serbia still lays formal claim to Kosovo and was furious when FIFA President Sepp Blatter made optimistic noises that Kosovo could be granted permission to play friendlies against FIFA members.
FIFA, which has been more sympathetic than UEFA towards to the region, subsequently postponed any decision until the end of September after talks between all parties.
And now Platini too has given the broadest hint yet that Kosovo may be granted some kind of international status.
“We are trying to find, with the help of Serbia, an agreement so that young Kosovars can play football,” said Platini.
“It is taking some time, because there have been some elections in Serbia, and the Government isn’t there yet.”
Platini (pictured above, left) was quick to point out that UEFA was anxious to avoid Kosovo acting a precedent for other secessionist regions to jump on the bandwagon.
“This situation is very complicated, because a decision about Kosovo doesn’t just imply a decision about Kosovo and other countries but it can also have the consequence that other countries in Europe ask to take part in UEFA competitions,” said Platini.
“But I think that in September/October we will come back with a proposal, and if the Serbians accept it – which I hope will be the case – so that football can be played in Kosovo, which is logical to my point of view.”
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