MU could be banned from the Champions League

An unbelievable but entirely possible scenario is that MU is at risk of not being able to participate in the Champions League next season, even if they win the Europa League.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has shares in both Manchester United and Nice.

Coach Ruben Amorim's team reached the Europa League final after destroying Athletic Bilbao with a total score of 7-1. This is a golden opportunity to make up for a disappointing season. However, the Europa League title does not guarantee the "Red Devils" a ticket to the Champions League.

The reason is that Sir Jim Ratcliffe owns shares in both MU and Nice Club (France). According to UEFA regulations, two teams with the same owner or directly influenced by an individual or organization are not allowed to participate in the same continental tournament. Nice is currently ranked 4th in Ligue 1, thereby qualifying for the Champions League next season.

UEFA changed the rules last year to assess each case on a case-by-case basis, with Man City and Girona both in the Champions League this season. However, the Red Devils still have reason to worry. Not long ago, they were unable to sign defender Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice due to a conflict of interest.

However, there are two factors that give MU hope. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is considering selling his shares in Nice. If this is completed before UEFA reviews the list of European Cup participants, the conflict of interest will no longer exist.

In addition, UEFA made it clear that the issue lies in "no one being allowed to directly or indirectly interfere in the management, administration or influence the sporting performance of more than one club competing in a European competition". MU can adjust the ownership structure and governance role to comply with the regulations.

However, UEFA is still concerned about the "unfairness" factor if there are signs of influencing the results of competitions between clubs with the same ownership. Therefore, MU can win the Europa League and theoretically participate in the Champions League, but the benefits can be revoked if UEFA assesses that the ownership of Nice creates a serious conflict of interest.

Source: https://znews.vn/mu-co-the-bi-cam-du-champions-league-post1552873.html