sports illustrated The German Football League (DFL) is reportedly planning to launch a new Under-21 league from next season.
The plan is to propose a new Under-21 league for Bundesliga teams by March 3, with clubs then voting on the matter. This is being done to reinvigorate the talent development programme, which is also voluntary and clubs have until June 15 to decide whether they wish to participate.
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The aim of the league is to provide under-19 players with more experience to help improve the transition from youth leagues to senior football.
Jurgen Klopp, a supporter of the idea, has previously stated why he thinks Germany should introduce something similar to Premier League 2.
How the new DFL league will work:
The DFL league will be used to supplement reserve teams rather than replace them, meaning the second teams found in 3.Liga and Regionalligas will remain there.
The new league will follow a similar format to the new Swiss Champions League format, meaning they will play a minimum of six matches but with the option to play more. The season will also adopt a competition system similar to South American football, divided into two and a half seasons, namely the opening season and the autumn season. In May, the Final Four will be held, which will include the top two teams from each half of the season.
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Games will not be played in front of spectators; however, fans may be allowed at the Final Four, and games will only be played within a 250km radius to reduce travel costs, meaning teams can play at neutral venues.
Players under the age of 21 and those recovering from injury will be allowed to take part in the competition, with each team able to register up to four older players. The new DFL league will also allow early registration.
GGFN | Jack Meenan