Man United At Risk of UCL Ban

Manchester United could be banned from playing in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) next season.

Following a 7-1 aggregate win over Athletic Club last week, the Red Devils have progressed to the UEFA Europa League final, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur next Wednesday, 21 May.

According to UEFA, the winning team “will automatically qualify for the league phase of next season’s UEFA Champions League.”

However, the football body’s rules also dictate that two teams owned by the same entity are prohibited from participating in the same European competition.

As of writing, United are owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s multi-national conglomerate, INEOS Group, which also owns French team, OGC Nice. Currently ranked fourth in the Ligue 1 standings, Nice are on track to qualify for the UCL, which could create a potential conflict of interest for the two clubs.

Due to recent revisions in their regulations regarding multi-club ownership, UEFA will likely assess the case and their verdict will determine if United and Nice can both compete in the UCL next season.

Additionally, Ratcliffe is reportedly considering selling Nice, which could resolve any eligibility issues, especially if the sale is finalised before a set deadline.