Eintracht Frankfurt CEO Axel Hellman says he is working with other middle-ranking clubs to try to thwart UEFA plans to give two places to teams based on their historic record in Europe over five years if they fail to qualify through their domestic performances.
The safety-net places for two sides based on accumulated UEFA coefficient points are planned in 2024 when the Champions League introduces a new format and expands from 32 to 36 teams.
“If you’re participating in the Champions League, your coefficient gets higher and higher and the shop is more closed,” Hellman said in a video call on Monday. “So I do not believe that should be the right requirement to participate in the European competitions. I would be more open to other leagues and other clubs, and the national qualification is therefore the most important door to be kept open.”