The Macedonian Football League (PMFL) will undergo significant changes for the 2027/28 season. The league will have 10 clubs instead of the previous 12. The most important change is that players from Open Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Serbia, Montenegro) will not be considered foreigners when registering in first league clubs. These changes are part of reforms aimed at a more functional, higher quality, and more stable development of Macedonian football. The decision was made by the Executive Board of the Football Federation of Macedonia (FFM).
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the regional cooperation and integration aspect of the decision, highlighting how the Open Balkan initiative fosters unity and reduces barriers among neighboring countries. They may also focus on the positive impact on players’ mobility and opportunities within the region.
Center: Centrist sources report the changes factually, focusing on the structural reforms in the Macedonian football league, the reduction of teams, and the new registration rules. They highlight the administrative decisions and the expected benefits for the league’s quality and stability without strong political framing.
Right: Right-leaning media might emphasize national interests and the protection of local players, possibly expressing concerns about the impact of allowing players from neighboring countries to not count as foreigners. They may frame the decision in the context of national identity and competition for spots in domestic teams.
