Manchester United could be barred from competing in Europa League next season
The Red Devils recently won the FA Cup after their 2-1 win over Premier League winners Manchester City last weekend. Despite finishing eighth in the league standings, United qualified for the Europa League by securing the FA Cup title.
But owners INEOS, who also owns French club Nice, also booked their place in the Europa League by securing a fifth-place finish in Ligue 1. However, UEFA regulations suggest that clubs with the same owners cannot compete in the same competition.
Man United Europa League Qualification Scenario
Man United‘s participation in the Europa League is in jeopardy due to INEOS’ ownership of Ligue 1 side Nice. A technicality could now prevent Erik ten Hag’s team from partaking in the Europa League.
UEFA prohibits two clubs owned by the same organization, which has since cast doubts on United’s participation in the competition. INEOS currently owns 27% of Manchester United and plans to invest a further £245m that would take their ownership in the club to more than 30%.
If INEOS fails to resolve the issue, one of its clubs will be relegated to the UEFA Conference League, UEFA’s third-tier competition.
Originally, Nice would be granted the spot in the Europa League due to their higher league finish but United’s FA Cup triumph will likely take precedence and see Nice drop into the Conference League.
According to INEOS statement: “We are aware of the position of the two clubs and we are in direct dialogue with UEFA.
“We are convinced that we have a solution for next season in Europe.”
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