The G-14 group, comprising some of Europe’s biggest clubs, has issued a threat to FIFA, saying the sport’s governing body must act swiftly to resolve the ongoing “club versus country” row, or risk a potentially damaging confrontation.
After a meeting in Madrid, the G-14 grouping said it would write a “robust” letter to FIFA about the release of Brazilian players for the world champions’ friendly against China next week.
“We have reached the limit,” said G-14 spokesman Thomas Kurth.
“This is our last attempt to reach a friendly solution.
“National associations are abusing the regulations in order to take players to another continent just to make money and that is not the purpose of international friendlies.”
G-14 board member Laurent Perpere of French club Paris Saint-Germain issued a veiled threat to FIFA, implying that clubs would refuse to release their players if their warnings go unheeded.
“You can all draw your own conclusions as to what we will do if FIFA don’t act,” he said.
Another bone of contention is the forthcoming Confederations Cup – scheduled to be held in France in June – which G-14 believes is an unnecessary addition to the football calendar, especially as it is due to be held at the end of the domestic season in Europe.
“The Confederations Cup raises the sameissues as the international friendlies,” said Kurth.
“In Spain, for example, the domestic season will be reaching its climax and clubs will be expected to release players for the competition. This must be avoided.”
