ECA ExCo meets ahead of 2024 UEFA Champions League Final to progress key priorities for clubs, while Juventus F.C to rejoin ECA

The ECA Executive Committee, also known as ExCo, gathered in London today for their final meeting of the season in preparation for the 2024 UEFA Champions League Final. During the meeting, they discussed important matters that concern European clubs and were given a report regarding Juventus F.C's request to rejoin ECA. Notably, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin and FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom were present at the meeting as well.

At the start of the meeting, the Chairman of ECA, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, announced some important news. He revealed that Juventus, after having had discussions with their leaders and managers, has expressed their wish to be a part of ECA again. The process of making this official will be completed soon. ECA is a group that values the idea of working together for common goals, making positive changes and constructive collaboration with all parties involved. They are happy to have Juventus back as a member of the European football community.

Introducing the fresh 'All-Inclusive Membership' system As an innovative approach to membership, we are introducing an inclusive model that welcomes everyone to our community. Regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or any other defining characteristic, you are now able to become a member and enjoy all the perks that come with it. This new model aims to create a more inclusive and diverse environment where all members feel welcome and valued. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to access our services, and this new system reflects our commitment to making that a reality. With the 'All-Inclusive Membership', you will have access to all of our facilities, services and events, without any restrictions. Our staff will be available to assist you at every step, making sure you get the most out of your membership. We hope that this new system will encourage more people to join our community and take advantage of all that we have to offer. So why wait? Sign up today and become part of something truly special!

During the latest report on ECA membership, the ExCo. was given news that the quantity of clubs that currently belong to the ECA has increased to 658 members. This is a significant growth as there were only 266 clubs at the beginning of this season. Furthermore, 20 countries have achieved a 100% membership rate.

During the meeting, the Executive Committee (ExCo) was informed about the latest developments concerning the proposed reforms for ECA membership governance. These reforms aim to streamline the membership structure of the ECA Family and make it more inclusive, with the overarching concept of 'Membership for All'.

Latest news about UEFA and FIFA stakeholder issues

During the last ExCo meeting, important information from the UEFA Executive Committee held in Dublin on May 22nd and the FIFA Council and Congress held in Bangkok earlier this month was shared.

During the recent UEFA Exco. gathering, the ECA was the center of attention, and several important issues were discussed. These included the (i) acceptance of various rules, such as the Club Licensing and Financial Sustainability, Organisational and Disciplinary Regulations, (ii) news about upcoming youth tournaments, (iii) prolongation of the Standing Facilities Observer Programme for the 2024/25 season, and (iv) the selection of hosts for UEFA Club Competitions Finals.

The FIFA meetings brought some important news for the ECA. In particular, they approved changes to the Women's International Match Calendar from 2026 to 2029, which is good progress. They also gave the thumbs up to having a FIFA Women's Club World Cup every four years beginning in 2026. There were also some updates to the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players which will help to protect female players and coaches even more. And finally, there were some changes to the governance of FIFA itself, which is always an important issue.

During the ExCo. meeting, the group was informed about the completion of the sales process for the UEFA Men's Club Competitions 2024-27, as well as the advancements being made on the FIFA Club World Cup and Joint Venture.

At last, ECA was given a demonstration by PwC, their consulting ally who is in charge of scrutinizing ECA's plan, set-up, and administration for the future.