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The association of European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL) has rejected the idea of a European Super League and backed the current system of merit-based competition through UEFA. The idea that a Super League could be formed in the near future appeared to be gathering some momentum, with reports -- which were denied -- that top Premier League clubs had met to discuss the idea at a London hotel, and Barcelona's financial vice-president backing the idea. Bayern Munich fans protested against plans, which has been supported by club CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge in recent months. But with the EPFL now firmly coming out against any European Super League, which would cherry pick the most financially lucrative clubs rather than qualification being based on domestic performance, the idea could be dead in the water. At the EPFL meeting in Madrid on Monday, chairman Lars-Christer Olsson was quoted by LaLiga.com as saying: "The EPFL is strongly against the creation of a European Super League and any format of competition which could destroy the basic dream and goal of any of our hundreds of clubs to compete at the highest level and possibly win a European club competition. "We must keep the dream alive for all clubs. At this stage, the EPFL together with all its Leagues believe the football stakeholders should focus their efforts to guarantee a better redistribution of wealth among all clubs to create a greater competitive balance in European football. "The EPFL is ready to play an active role in any discussion with the football family on this respect." Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, added: "La Liga are also against the idea of a European Super League. It wouldn't help the development of our own leagues. "La Liga and the EPFL defend the right for national leagues to decide who accesses European competitions. "The current success of Spanish football demonstrates that the club directors are doing a good job." The EPFL describes itself as "the strategic lead for professional football in Europe." Its 24 member leagues are national premier professional football leagues as defined in the official UEFA list of European Premier Professional League Organisations.
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