By James Cormack The Europa League knockout round play-offs will return for its third iteration in 2023/24. UEFA’s introduction of the Europa Conference League ahead of the 2021/22 campaign brought about a shake-up to their second most prestigious club competition. A significant downsize ensued, and the round of 32 was ditched in favour of the knockout round play-offs. The addition of two extra games on an already demanding calendar gives teams the extra incentive to avoid the newly established phase by either winning their Europa League group or ensuring they advance in the Champions League. …