August 31 – Almost 20 years after the demise of the European Cup Winners’ Cup, absorbed in 1999 by the Europa League, UEFA are considering re-introducing a third European cup competition in 2021, according to Germany’s Bild newspaper.
The competition will reportedly run alongside the Champions League and Europa League, with the latter reduced from 48 to 32 clubs – the same number as Europe’s elite club competition.
The third tournament still requires a name but will also feature 32 sides, says Bild.
UEFA have not confirmed the move but discussions seem likely to take place at next month’s UEFA executive committee meeting.
One narrative being circulated is that the third tournament, first explored in 2015, will give Europe’s minnows the chance to play outside their domestic leagues and make the Europa League stronger, with more marketing and sponsorship potential.
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