With billions in broadcast and commercial revenues at stake and complex legal issues in the background, the power battle comes down to a clear choice over the most fundamental of political questions - who governs?
In previous similar cases, a compromise has been reached where the big clubs continue under UEFA's umbrella but gain concessions from the confederation. However, several sources have indicated that the chances of a full break with UEFA are higher than in the past. The European Leagues organisation, which represents the main domestic competitions, has condemned the plan and even the European Commission expressed their political opposition to such a project.Those who run the domestic leagues fear that the proposed structure would damage their own competitions, reduce the chances for their clubs to play in Europe and also reduce the appeal of their own broadcast deals.
The driver of the breakaway plan, according to several sources, has been Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, and it was noticeable that the statement from FIFA and UEFA came shortly after the Spaniard visited Juventus president Andrea Agnelli, also head of the influential European Club Association.
A senior official with one major European league told Reuters that they were sceptical of the breakaway coming to fruition.
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