foremost duty to football is to
implement policies that are
responsible, even if they are
not always popular.
The former Ballon d'Or winner is a staunch advocate
of Financial Fair Play, where failure of a club to spend
within its budget can lead to disqualification from
European competitions.
And while admitting his initiatives are not always well-
received, Platini has vowed to continue striving for a
more level and financially-inclusive playing field in
Europe.
"In recent months, football has not always projected
the best image of itself. Practices which are morally
reprehensible have persisted," he began in an
address over Uefa's website.
"Uefa has its share of responsibility. We would like to
act in a quicker and firmer manner. Nevertheless, we
have moved to the next level in 2013, and important
decisions have been taken.
"Clubs have been excluded from the Champions
League and Europa League, either for reasons related
to their financial mismanagement, or because of their
involvement in match-fixing.
"All of these measures are not making us popular.
That is patently clear. However, my aim is not to be
popular. My aim is to be responsible.
"I must take on this responsibility to remain hopeful
that another kind of football is possible. A football that
is free of cheating, violence or injustice."
On a lighter note, Platini took time to congratulate
Bayern Munich for a triumphant 2013, as well as
express his hopes one of Europe's representatives at
the 2014 World Cup would clinch the trophy.
"It would be remiss of me if I did not pay tribute to
Bayern Munich, who won all the competitions in which
the club has taken part in 2013, including the Club
World Cup in Morocco days ago," the Juventus and
France legend continued.
"We must also wish the best of luck to the 13 national
teams who will represent Europe at the World Cup in
Brazil.
"I have one single wish – that the Jules Rimet Trophy
remains in Europe for another four years."
No comments:
Post a Comment