Putting the Wind up FIFA

Is it possible to imagine a time when Europe's top clubs breakaway from the governance of FIFA and take control of their own destiny? A European Super League has been mooted, some say dreamt about for some time. Those possibilities have crept a little bit closer recently as FIFA feels a chill wind of discontent from European clubs.
The European Club Association was formed in 2008 in an agreement with UEFA which saw the dissolution of the G14 group and UEFA signing a memorandum of understanding recognising ECA as the sole body representing the interests of clubs at European level. UEFA also agreed to give a percentage of the profits from the European Championships to the clubs who contributed players. ECA has rapidly become an extremely influential organisation, representing 201 of the most important clubs in Europe. Estimates suggest the the European game accounts for something approaching 90% of the wealth of the entire world game. ECA has become increasingly discontented with its arrangements with FIFA, the world governing body. The ECA currently agrees to allow its players to appear in international tournaments and matches in return for a share of the proceeds of tournaments.  ECA is extremely dissatisfied with the current deal which expires in 2014. For World Cup 2010 in South Africa ECA clubs provided 400 players and received £40 million. This is compared with FIFA profits of  £1.1 billion. ECA are demanding something in the region of £300 million for future tournaments. With 400 players as bargaining tools ECA holds some very strong cards.
The clubs are unhappy with the current insurance arrangements and want an agreement which enables them to build protection for international injuries into their existing policies affording them substantial savings.
Discussions with FIFA have become increasingly prickly. ECA boycotted the most recent meeting with FIFA scheduled for the 5th March 2012. Its president, Karl Heinz Rummenigge, has publicly denounced the unhelpful approach of FIFA President, Sepp Blatter.

Conversely ECA has reached an accord with UEFA and its president Michel Platini. The number of international matches will be reduced and ECA's share of EURO proceeds will increase. ECA will have the right to be consulted about all matters affecting clubs.
Whilst ECA has members on various FIFA committees, it does not have any representation on the body itself which is made up of national delegates. ECA is dismayed with the various (mainly financial) scandals involving FIFA, its lack of transparency and true democracy. It is unlikely that ECA and FIFA will amicably resolve their differences. Indeed ECA questions the need for FIFA involvement in its future affairs. Its peaceable dealings with UEFA suggest another way forward. This may spell trouble for the wider world game. The other 5 confederations of FIFA are all highly dependent upon FIFA and its World Cup revenues. Their clubs are not major financial forces. The reason that the African Cup of Nations takes place every 2 years instead of 4 is to attempt to generate additional income to finance the game on that continent.

The fragmentation of world football with a European super power standing apart would be a disaster for many. For the average European football fan however, the prospects might be enticing. However it is also hard and painful to contemplate a world without a truly World Cup every 4 years! Is it possible a time might come when players  of the stature of Lionel Messi and Robin Van Persie are withheld from performing on the greatest stage of all by the refusal of their clubs to release them. Much food for thought.