UEFA might be planning to scrap their usual Champions League play-off rounds as per Football Insider and could be a great boost for Scottish side Celtic FC.
The report claims: “Celtic may be just one match away from a stunning £30million-plus windfall under new plans being drafted by Uefa.
“A Uefa source has told Football Insider that drastic measures are being proposed due to the short timeframe for next season’s competition and that could mean Celtic’s Champions League dream hinging on a winner-takes-all match.”
Right now rumours have it that UEFA’s planning to finish the remaining Champions League and Europa League matches for the current season in August which means the usual play-offs for the next campaign will have very little time to be completed. Which is why the governing body of football in Europe could opt for a temporary change in format.
But according to former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan, the proposed do-or-die setup could be a double-edged sword.
Whelan told Football Insider: “In competitions, you have got to beat the best, home or away.
“Even if it is a one-legged tie they know what they need to do. The aim is still the same whether you are home, away or at a neutral stadium – you have to win.
“It makes it a little bit more interesting, a little bit more exciting.
“It will be a little bit more difficult for certain teams but this is football right now. We have to roll with the times and people have got to understand that.”
The last time Celtic FC qualified for the Champions League group stages was three years ago under then-manager Brendan Rodgers but if the normal six matches process is substituted with only one round then it will be a massive boost for Neil Lennon’s men.
Not only will the Bhoys get to play in the top division of Europe but the money that will flow from this qualification will immensely help the Glasgow side during a time of such a financial crunch.
