UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin is steadfast in asserting the group’s unity and dedication to democracy, regardless of the surprising resignation of Director of Football Zvonimir Boban final week.
Boban, as soon as a distinguished determine in Ceferin’s inside circle, stepped down in protest of a proposed modification that would lengthen Ceferin’s presidency till 2031, surpassing the present time period limits.
In an interview with The Guardian, Ceferin addressed the controversy, dismissing claims of a fractured UEFA and an autocratic agenda.
“His departure has not caused any significant disruptions, let alone shock waves, within UEFA or the European football community, even if it was unexpected,” Ceferin asserted.
He went on to emphasise the collective decision-making course of and the authority of the congress in figuring out any adjustments.
Ceferin, a lawyer by occupation, delved into the intricacies of the statute adjustments, highlighting a authorized and factual perspective.
“In 2017, we proposed term limits, but the unclear wording led to de facto absence of limits. In 2018, the administration changed the wording without mandatory approval, rendering the provision invalid. We aim to clarify this to avoid a scenario where there are no term limits, allowing anyone to run indefinitely,” he mentioned.
Despite the outward look of unity, Ceferin expressed frustration with what he deemed deceptive media briefings.
Without naming the person, he referred to “a clown from one of the federations” spreading conspiracy theories with out addressing the UEFA management instantly.
Ceferin clarified that the proposed adjustments wouldn’t affect the eligibility of govt committee members to run for one more time period.
“The change does not mean anything. But it was presented like ‘wow,’ and I became Kim Jong-Un from North Korea. It’s not like that,” Ceferin mentioned, addressing the sensationalized narrative surrounding the scenario.
On the factual query of whether or not he intends to run once more in 2027, Ceferin remained contemplative.
“I will inform the media when the time comes. To be honest, I’m so tired after everything we’ve been through in recent years that I’m not sure. But if it’s not changed, we don’t have term limits. This is very simple,” he concluded.
Source: www.dailysabah.com