English football is facing a proposal that could spark fireworks and heated discussions. ‘Project Big Picture’ is the name given to a proposal being led by Liverpool and Manchester United that would reshape the game in England.
Initial talks for the plan began in 2017, though this year’s coronavirus pandemic has seen them accelerated.
The proposal has been brought to light by the Telegraph, who have reported that Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham and Arsenal are all in support of the move, as does English Football League president Rick Parry.
One of the changes would see the Premier League go from having 20 teams to 18, which would see four clubs relegated and just two promoted the season before the reform.
Two teams would be promoted and relegated between the Premier League and Championship going forward, with third, fourth and fifth in the Championship then competing to face 16th in the Premier League in a play-off.
England’s the three professional tiers would be reduced from having 24 teams to 22.
Another change could see the removal of the Carabao Cup and the Community Shield. Though the cup competition could remain, but without the participation of the European sides.
Any new proposals would need 14 of 18 votes to pass.
Project Big Picture also aims to allocate 250 million pounds to the English Football League to overcome the financial problems brought by COVID-19, while another 100 million pounds could come from the Football Association.
The Premier League have already responded with a statement.
“English football is the world’s most watched, and has a vibrant, dynamic and competitive league structure that drives interest around the globe,” the Premier League said in their statement. “To maintain this position, it is important that we all work together.
“Both the Premier League and The FA support a wide-ranging discussion on the future of the game, including its competition structures, calendar and overall financing particularly in light of the effects of COVID-19.
“Football has many stakeholders, therefore this work should be carried out through the proper channels enabling all clubs and stakeholders the opportunity to contribute.
“In the Premier League’s view, a number of the individual proposals in the plan published today could have a damaging impact on the whole game and we are disappointed to see that Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, has given his on-the-record support.
“The Premier League has been working in good faith with its clubs and the EFL to seek a resolution to the requirement for COVID-19 rescue funding. This work will continue.”