Brussels, 13/10/2000 (Agence Europe) - In the context of his contacts with the world of football regarding the rules governing the transfer of a player from one club to another, the European Commissioner for Competition, Mario Monti met a delegation of players' representatives. The latter expressed their disappointment at the lack, at first sight, of progress being made by the task force which - bringing together clubs, federations, players, etc. - is preparing the new rules to be submitted to the Commission. Players' organisations are prepared to pursue negotiations, but at the same time say they are ready to take the case before the Court of Justice if their concerns are not taken into account.
At the end of the talks, Mr. Monti confirmed that he was waiting for proposals from FIFA, promised for the end of the month, while reaffirming that the current rules do not comply with Community law. And, he added: "I sincerely hope that FIFA, UEFA, the leagues, clubs and players will all make an effort to reach a solution that preserves the specific nature of sport, while respecting both: national legislation applicable to contracts; the freedom of movement for players; Community law".