Country with “incredible impact on football”, “pride” in Sp. Braga and the noise of Benfica fans: Al-Khelaifi surrendered to Portugal – Futebol Nacional

President of the ECA (European Club Association) and PSG participated in the 12th Summit of Presidents

As with the president of UEFA, Aleksander Ceferin, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of the ECA (European Club Association) and PSG, participated this Wednesday in the 12th Presidents’ Summit, held in Coimbra, via video call.

“It is an honor to address you at the XII Summit of Presidents of the Liga Portugal. I regret not being able to be with you today in person, but like President Ceferin on behalf of UEFA, I wanted to show my support and solidarity with Portuguese football on behalf of European Club Association (ECA). Portugal occupies a special place in football – it has given us so many great moments and memories. When the national team won EURO 2016 in extra time, I was there – it was incredible”, he said, looking afterwards for Portugal’s successes compared to its size, comparing it with France. “For a country with just 10 million inhabitants, you have an incredible impact on football, with your clubs winning 11 European trophies and your league always ranking very highly. As president of PSG, Portugal is also in my heart , personally. 16 Portuguese players played for PSG – with 4 great players in our squad this season and, of course, our Sporting Director, Luis Campos. And I am also proud to be a minority investor in SC Braga – I convey my best wishes to the President António Salvador. Like France, Portugal is a talent machine and has fantastic fans (I remember the noise at Benfica last year!) – and is at the heart of European football.”

Continuing in his speech, Nasser Al-Khelaifi reiterated his support for Pedro Proença and highlighted the work done by ECA. “A large part of this success is due to everyone present today – you, the Club Presidents. It’s not easy to be Club President – ​​I know! It’s also thanks to Pedro’s leadership – he was elected President of Liga Portugal 3 times, nor President of the European Leagues in 2023, by luck or chance, but based on competence, hard work and the search for solutions for all involved. Former referee for 17 years – he is also fair and puts football first . These are the values ​​we uphold at the European Club Association. The ECA generates revenue for clubs in and outside of European competitions, and even beyond Europe – helping the entire ecosystem grow. We give a voice to all top-tier clubs in decisions that shape football – regardless of its size, big or small. ECA believes that all stakeholders grow together based on common solutions – in win-win partnerships. ECA’s door is open – my door is open – to any club, to hear your opinion and find solutions for you. As clubs, we are stronger together”, he stressed.

By Ricardo Chambel