Tuesday 10 October 2017 08:18, UK
A breakaway European Super League would diminish national leagues and should not happen, insists Terry Gibson.
Talk of a new league incorporating Europe's biggest sides has intensified in the wake of Catalonia's independence crisis, with questions surrounding Barcelona's participation in La Liga if the region does become fully autonomous to Spain.
But Gibson, speaking on the La Liga Weekly podcast, says that the revenue Barcelona bring into La Liga should mean they are not left floating if independence is gained.
He said: "I like the tradition and history of the Champions League, and in its current format I think it has improved.
"I'm hoping it satisfies the needs of the big clubs, the regular participants in the Champions League, and that they don't feel the need to break off to form a Super League.
"I can't imagine a scenario where those big clubs break away and not let anyone else qualify. It would diminish the national leagues, all that tradition and rivalry. I for one don't want it to happen, and it shouldn't be allowed to happen.
"La Liga would deteriorate severely. One of the most anticipated games in the world is the Clasico, and how much that enhances La Liga, everyone is aware of that. I just hope it doesn't come to that.
"Money talks with Barcelona, every team they play home and away are hoping for an income from one of the bigger crowds of the season.
"It's the revenue from TV too, it wouldn't be the same if there was no Clasico and the big game from the season was the Madrid derby.
"I presume that the financial aspect would be enough to have a stronghold over any decision regarding Barcelona staying in the league."
Spanish football expert Graham Hunter, also speaking on La Liga Weekly, said that although it is feasible a breakaway league could come to fruition, he hopes it is avoided.
"I'm not in favour of a European Super League taking over from the Champions League or detracting from national leagues. I believe in the Champions League.
"But if the ECA (European Club Association) become utterly unhappy with UEFA for one reason or another, and Barcelona happen to be floating about, looking for somewhere to play because Catalonia has become independent, is it feasible? I think it is.
"I hope it's avoidable, it's not what I'm advocating, but I think we'd be pretty naive not to say that a combination of circumstances, mixed with ambition, mixed with marketing, mixed with the demand from the world could make it happen.
"I think the idea of super clubs having super clashes is something people want to see. If you're asking me in the next 10 or so years: is it feasible? I'm sad to say it is at least feasible."
