Louis van Gaal launched a scathing attack on UEFA and the Champions League's new single-group format. His comments focused on the expanded structure, the number of matches and the effect on injuries.
Attack on UEFA
As reported by Spanish newspaper " AS ", Van Gaal said: "The Union of European Football Associations thinks of nothing but making money. It is a corrupt world."
Objection to the format
Van Gaal branded the current Champions League format ridiculous. He said: "It is called the Champions League, isn't it?" and "The best teams should take part in it."
For the past two seasons, the competition has run on a unified league table in its opening league phase. The number of teams has climbed from 32 to 36, and each side now plays 8 matches in that phase rather than 6.
View on competitive balance
Van Gaal said: "In this way, the gap in level narrows, and therefore there are fewer goals."
More matches, more injuries
Van Gaal said: "There are more matches, and therefore, more injuries." GOAL reported that Van Gaal voiced his opposition to the changes in an interview with several Dutch media outlets.
Van Gaal cited the injury suffered by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as an example of injuries caused by the congested schedule.