Nasser Al-Khelaifi Announces Plans for ‘World Football Clubs’ as EFC Expands Globally

Nasser Al-Khelaifi has announced plans to create World Football Clubs (WFC) “as soon as possible” as part of the European Football Clubs’ (EFC) expansion beyond Europe.

Speaking in Copenhagen, the EFC chairman said the organisation has evolved into a global network and believes the time is now right to establish a platform specifically designed to connect clubs around the world.

“The EFC has become a global network and platform for clubs to connect to anyone. We create benefits for clubs inside and outside of Europe. That is why now is the time to create World Football Clubs.”

The proposal has already attracted attention within football circles, with some viewing WFC as a potential unofficial sixth continental confederation and a structure that could challenge the influence of FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Al-Khelaifi, however, presented the project primarily as an expansion of opportunities for clubs rather than a direct confrontation with football's governing bodies.

He said WFC would focus on governance, innovation and helping clubs adapt to the rapidly changing football landscape, particularly as younger supporters increasingly move between the physical and digital worlds.

“Our clubs today are also more global and more international than ever, whilst still being part of the fabric of their local communities,” Al-Khelaifi added.

He highlighted the increasingly international nature of clubs, players, supporters, owners, media and commercial partnerships, arguing that football now has a global reach while maintaining strong local identities.

If created, WFC could significantly expand the EFC's influence by providing clubs outside Europe with a common platform for cooperation and representation. Its eventual structure and relationship with FIFA and the existing continental confederations will likely determine how significant the project becomes within the global football landscape.