There has been a thread on BigSoccer arguing for the reallocation of Champions League qualifying berths in light of this year's performance. Now, that's simply not going to happen on the sole basis of Group Stage results in the first edition of the Champions League. Nevertheless, I talked to my contacts within CONCACAF and they confirmed the current allocation for next season but "...we'll continue to study it." They were surprised by some of the results thrown up in the tournament, some of which I mentioned in my previous post on the CONCACAF coefficients.
In my personal opinion, I would be surprised if CONCACAF made adjustments to allocations from the Mexican and US leagues because they are the largest media markets in the region, and money always talks within CONCACAF. Outside those two, it's a different story. Even so, if I were the MLS front office I would not be complacent -- CONCACAF reserves the right to throw up a surprise or two.
Good point. I doubt they'll take away any spots from Costa Rica due to a poor performance this year from Alajuelense & Saprissa.
Posted by: kalel | November 30, 2008 at 10:22 AM
I wouldn't be surprised if they took a spot from away from the Mexican ,US Leagues and reallocate a spot for either the defending champion or additional spots to other leagues.
Posted by: Tim | December 04, 2008 at 01:59 PM