...this notion of losing identity has been mainly used as a cover up for "I don't want to play with Ys ever and no circumstances") even though most of the ideas here are based on retaining the flag and nationality of players.
Exactly, this would be no problem if we merge leagues, but keep the flag, NTs and the national forums. This solution sounds like it needs more programming, but it is obviously the one that has a broad appeal. I don't care if I end up in a lower division, as long as I get to play some real teams.
I am glad BB is looking into possible solutions, and that they let users air their opinion. Keep in mind that the user numbers are dropping, in micronations mainly because there is a lack of competition and challenge. Something needs to be done. If it is at all possible to create new leagues with mixed micronations, that is the choice that changes the least about the community, and it creates an enviroment for balance.
The number of managers in each league should allow both further decline for a while, but also growth, since I think by doing this it will once again be fun to play with a micronation team (in a mixed league).
The tournament should also be within those mixed leagues, so every team in each mixed league gets the same amount of tournament games.