Prosiect Cymru: English FA rejects Welsh EFL clubs’ European plan

As part of proposals entitled Prosiect Cymru (Project Wales), Cardiff, Swansea, Wrexham and Newport would have competed in the revamped cup against the 12 teams from Wales’ top flight, the Cymru Premier.

Those clubs were broadly supportive of the idea, while Uefa had given its approval.

The FAW said the new Welsh League Cup would have generated £3m a season, which would have been invested into grassroots infrastructure projects, women’s football and the domestic game in general.

But the EFL, while not commenting publicly before Thursday’s decision, had expressed concerns about the plans over a number of reasons.

Fixture congestion could have been an issue as Championship games, for example, often take place in midweek at the same time as European games.

Money was a more significant consideration. With tight regulations over profit and sustainability rules, it was argued Wales’ clubs – with their greater chance of reaching Europe – would have an unfair advantage.

The FAW had said clubs would not include the revenues in their PSR accounting, but they would still benefit from extra ticket sales and possible bigger commercial and sponsorship deals – or even being more attractive to potential signings.