European Football Clubs (EFC), formerly known as the European Club Association, could eventually have a global counterpart after its chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi called for the creation of World Football Clubs.
As reported by İdman.Biz, Al-Khelaifi presented the idea during the EFC General Assembly, arguing that football clubs have become increasingly global while maintaining strong ties to their local communities.
"Our clubs today are more global and international than ever, while remaining rooted in their local communities. Our players, our coaches, our competitions, our fans, our owners, our partners, our brands — they all have local roots but global impact," Al-Khelaifi said, according to the official EFC website.
He noted that supporters from Copenhagen to Cairo and from New York to Tokyo can now follow their clubs with the same passion as fans attending matches at stadiums.
"EFC has become a global network and platform that allows clubs to connect with anyone. We are creating benefits for clubs inside and outside Europe.
"That is why now is the time to create World Football Clubs. Because every club in the world deserves to be represented, to have a voice and to have the best possible chance of success," the EFC chairman said.
Al-Khelaifi stressed that cooperation between clubs of different sizes should be at the heart of the organisation's approach.
"Big clubs need small clubs. Small clubs need big clubs. All stakeholders need each other. After all, no player can beat 11 opponents alone. The ball moves faster when we pass it. That is what a team is," he added.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, some participants at the assembly view the proposed World Football Clubs organisation as an unofficial "sixth confederation" that could potentially challenge the influence of FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino.
No formal structure, membership criteria or timetable for the establishment of World Football Clubs has yet been announced.
