Wenger paints a European picture - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Wenger paints a European picture

Arsene Wenger believes the unquenchable thirst for money among top clubs will lead to a European League being formed in 10 years time.

In the context of discussing whether Celtic or Rangers would be a welcome addition to the Barclays Premier League, Wenger expanded his views on the future of the game. And in doing so, the Frenchman claimed greed could eventually put an end to the Champions League.

"I see more of a European League developing in time anyway. The national leagues will survive, but maybe in 10 years you will have a European League," said Wenger.

"I believe you have two parts of Scottish club football; you have Rangers and Celtic and then the rest.

"I would say that Celtic and Rangers could compete, certainly, in the Premier League in the top eight. The other teams at the moment are not equipped for that.

"The way we are going now financially, even the money coming in from the Champions League for some clubs who spend so much money will not be enough anymore because the income is basically owned by UEFA and they distribute the money to the clubs.

"I'm not sure 100% that I am right, but I feel that there are some voices behind the scenes in our game aiming to do something about a European league, especially if the rules become too restrictive for the big clubs as things currently stand."

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