Speaking to CNN Sport contributor Darren Lewis, Ceferin did not hold back on the proposals which threaten to rock the foundations of the sport but was confident the new league would not be a success.
“Because we [UEFA] respect the fans, the traditions, football, the football community, our society, we will win. In the end, we will win,” Ceferin says.
“If 12 people want to meet to take football hostage, just to fill their pockets that are already so full that it’s hard to put anything in, they can’t win. Long term, they can’t win.”
The announcement has resulted in widespread condemnation, with fans, players and politicians all criticizing the founding members for prioritizing financial gain and creating a closed shop for the richest clubs.
“I’m proud and happy that fans respect football, that they love football, that they respect history and they’re not for sale,” Ceferin added.
“Fans are not for sale and football players as well. And I hope they will raise their voice and stop this…