Nasser Al-Khelaïfi at THE FORUM: “Leagues Are Essential and Football Must Move Forward Together”

Nasser Al-Khelaïfi sent a clear message to European football: the current moment calls for stability, cooperation, and shared growth. He delivered this message at THE FORUM, an exclusive event organized by Atlético de Madrid and Apollo Sports Capital, held at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, which brought together more than 400 people to analyze the present and future of the industry.

In a conversation with Guillem Balagué, the president of Paris Saint-Germain and the European Club Association asserted that the ecosystem has emerged stronger after the tensions of recent years: “We must put aside selfishness. We all want what’s best for football.”

Regarding the new Champions League format, he was emphatic: “It’s a great success. From the first match to the last, every game counts. It’s the football the fans want.” Al-Khelaïfi highlighted the increased competitiveness, the number of goals, and global interest as indicators of the positive impact of the change.

One of the central messages of his speech was the defense of the balance within the football ecosystem: “We don’t want to see clubs separate from their domestic leagues. National leagues are fundamental.” Along these lines, he insisted that the future lies in collaboration, not in exclusionary models: “If we put egos aside and think about the common good, there’s room for everyone to win.”

Al-Khelaïfi also emphasized the economic impact of the current system: “93.5% of the revenue goes back to the clubs, even those that don’t participate in European competitions.” He also highlighted the growing internationalization of football: “We want to continue growing in markets like the United States and Asia. European football is becoming increasingly global.”

On the sporting front, the president expressed his pride in the team’s current form: “Reaching the Champions League semi-finals with a young squad is something very special.” He also praised the team’s structure: “Bringing Luis Enrique and Luis Campos on board has been one of the best decisions. Their work goes far beyond just the results.”

The leader concluded with a message of consensus and ambition: “European football has emerged stronger. If we work together, the future will be even better for everyone.”

THE FORUM is powered by Atlético de Madrid, Riyadh Air, and Apollo Sports Capital. More information at www.theforum.es.