DFL Proposes New Under-21 League to Enhance Talent Development

omidbasir- According to Sport Bild, the Deutsche Fußball League (DFL) is preparing to launch a new under-21 league for Bundesliga clubs starting next season.

The proposal is set to be presented to clubs by March 3rd, 2023, allowing them to vote on the initiative. This endeavor aims to revitalize the talent development program, although participation will be voluntary, with clubs having until June 15th to decide on their involvement.

The primary objective of the league is to provide under-19 players with more competitive experience, thereby facilitating a smoother transition from youth leagues to senior football.

Notably, Jürgen Klopp has expressed his support for this initiative, advocating for a structure akin to the Premier League 2 in England.

The DFL league will serve to complement existing reserve teams rather than replace them, ensuring that second teams currently competing in the 3. Liga and Regionalligas remain in their respective divisions.

The proposed league will adopt a format similar to the new Champions League Swiss model, where teams will play a minimum of six matches, with the option to participate in additional games. Additionally, the structure will mirror the South American football format, featuring two halves of the season, known as Apertura and Clausura. A final four tournament will take place in May, showcasing the top two teams from each half of the season.

While regular matches will occur without spectators, the final four could potentially allow fans, and games will be restricted to a 250 km travel radius to minimize costs, with possible neutral venues for matchups.

Players under the age of 21, as well as those recovering from injuries, will be eligible to participate, with each team permitted to register a maximum of four older players. The new DFL league will also allow for player registration a day in advance.