EPL clubs unanimously reject biennial FIFA World Cup Plan

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LONDON: English Premier League (EPL) clubs have united in opposing FIFA’s controversial proposal to hold the World Cup every two years.

"All 20 Premier League clubs have discussed the post-2024 International Match Calendar reform process and are unanimously opposed to FIFA’s proposal for biennial men’s World Cups, along with any plans involving significantly extended international windows," the EPL stated Thursday.

FIFA’s biennial World Cup scheme was mooted earlier this year by former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, who now works as chief of global football development for the governing body.

Clubs raised concerns about the negative impacts FIFA’s current proposals would have on player welfare, the fan experience, pre-season preparations and the quality of competitions.

EPL chief executive Richard Masters said: "The Premier League is committed to preventing any radical changes to the post-2024 FIFA International Match Calendar that would adversely affect player welfare and threaten the competitiveness, calendar, structures and traditions of domestic football.

"We are open to reforms and new ideas, but they must enhance the complementary balance between domestic and international football in order to improve the game at all levels.

"This process should also involve meaningful agreements with the leagues that provide the foundations for the game.

"We will continue to work with supporter groups, players, domestic and international stakeholders to find solutions that are in the best interests of football’s long-term future."

The EPL joined UEFA and the European Club Association in condemning FIFA’s widely-panned plans.

The EPL is hosting the World Leagues Forum's Annual General Meeting in London on 2 and 3 December.