Manchester United want the format of the Champions League changed to help more big clubs reach the later stages.
United lost in the first knockout stage this season, as they did 12 months ago to eventual winners Porto.
United chief executive David Gill said: “At the moment we effectively have a random draw after the group stage.
“Maybe we should use a system where the holders are rated number one and they play the 16th ranked team, number two versus 15, and so on.”
Gill argues that the competition will lose some of its appeal if the bigger clubs go out early.
He added: “It’s not good for the big clubs, not good for TV and sponsors if there are no Spanish clubs in the quarter-finals.
“When the draw for the group stage is made, each club’s co-efficient is used.
“Given it is unlikely we will ever go back to a situation of having two group stages, maybe we should use a system during the knock-out phase that also reflects the rankings.
“AC Milan were discussing this before we played them, so it is not a knee-jerk reaction.”
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, whose side were knocked out at the first knockout phase, is another calling for changes.
He said: “You can’t afford to have Real Madrid and Manchester United – big clubs who invest so much money – going out in the last 16.
“You will have a revolt if it continues like that.
“Seeding teams is a possibility. I don’t think the formula at the moment helps the best teams.
“Maybe Uefa will use their ranking lists to influence the draw in future.”
