April 22 – UEFA has admitted for the first time that it is prepared to accept domestic leagues being permanently called off in “special cases” because of Covid-19.
All 55 European national FAs met by video conference on Tuesday when ways to finish the season were outlined and UEFA is meeting with other key stakeholders over the next 48 hours.
UEFA has in the past cautioned that leagues will need to complete their domestic campaigns to be admitted to next season’s European competitions saying that a “premature termination would cast doubts” over eligibility
But UEFA now appear to have softened its stance with so much uncertainty over the spread of the virus.
In a statement UEFA said that despite the “strong recommendation” to finish seasons, they will listen to “some special cases” once guidelines regarding participation in the Champions League and Europa League have been drawn up.
The scenarios presented to associations on Tuesday are reported to have included the proposal to complete the Champions League and Europa League in August, with the final of the Champions League believed to be pencilled in for August 29.
UEFA have established two working groups with one idea apparently that the 2020-21 season will begin in mid-September a month later than usual.
In England, Premier League clubs are still grappling with how they can complete the season.
It has been reported that Sky would not seek a rebate in the event of a curtailed campaign, but that would still reportedly leave the clubs owing a collective £370 million.
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