Ownership rules could block Red Devils’ UCL spot despite potential trophy, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Nice stake complicates UEFA eligibility
Manchester United’s turbulent season could take another twist—even if they lift the Europa League trophy, they might still be denied a place in next season’s Champions League due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules.
The Red Devils booked their place in the Europa League final after a dominant 7-1 aggregate win over Athletic Club, setting up a showdown with Tottenham, who crushed Bodo/Glimt 5-1. Victory in Bilbao would normally guarantee a spot in Europe’s elite competition, but Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stake in Ligue 1 side Nice could throw a major spanner in the works.
Under old UEFA regulations, two clubs under the same ownership were barred from competing in European tournaments, even in different competitions. Nice, currently fourth in Ligue 1, are on track for a Champions League place—which would have automatically disqualified United if they also qualified via a Europa League win.
However, UEFA relaxed these rules last season, now assessing conflicts on a case-by-case basis. This allowed Manchester City and Girona (both under City Football Group) to compete in this season’s Champions League. But United aren’t out of the woods yet.
Ratcliffe, who owns a 27% stake in United through INEOS, also controls Nice. UEFA’s key condition is that no single entity can have “control or decisive influence” over multiple clubs in their competitions. If Ratcliffe remains involved with both teams, United must prove the clubs operate independently—or risk being the one left out.
There is hope, though. Ratcliffe is reportedly exploring a sale of Nice, which, if completed in time, would remove the conflict entirely. Even if a sale doesn’t materialize, UEFA’s more flexible approach means United could still argue their case, provided they demonstrate a clear separation between the two clubs’ operations.
For now, Erik ten Hag’s men must focus on beating Tottenham—a team that has already defeated them three times this season. For Spurs, ending a 17-year trophy drought would be a dream; for United, it might be the only way to salvage pride from a dismal campaign. But whether it also secures a Champions League return remains uncertain.
As the final approaches, United fans will be watching not just the pitch in Bilbao, but also the boardrooms—where Ratcliffe’s next move could make or break their European dreams.
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- UEFA Allows Manchester United to Compete in Europa League Despite Ownership Rules
- Manchester United’s European Football Ambitions Under Threat Amid OGC Nice Ownership Complexities
- Manchester United Faces Champions League Ban Threat Amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Partial Takeover
