Manchester United's season has been a tumultuous journey, yet there remains a glimmer of hope for a triumphant finale as they clinched their place in the Europa League final. Ruben Amorim's troops annihilated Athletic Club with a staggering 7-1 aggregate win, paving the way for a face-off with Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao in a mere 10 days.
Spurs also enjoyed a commendable run, trouncing Bodo/Glimt 5-1 over two matches. Despite their domestic woes, Ange Postecoglou's squad have managed to find victory over the Red Devils on three occasions this term. For Spurs, hoisting the trophy would end a 17-year dry spell, while for United, it could offer a silver lining to an otherwise lacklustre season. It's worth bearing in mind that the victors of the Europa League automatically secure a berth in next season's Champions League. However, for United, this might not be a foregone conclusion.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Under previous UEFA regulations, two clubs under the same ownership cannot participate in different European tournaments. Given Sir Jim Ratcliffe's stakes in both Man United and Ligue 1 outfit Nice, it would have been unfeasible for both teams to compete in Europe.
Despite suffering a 2-0 defeat to Rennes on Saturday, Nice are well-placed to qualify for next season's Champions League as they currently occupy fourth spot in the Ligue 1 standings. Regulations have shifted last year to allow ownership of multiple clubs, assessing each case on an individual basis. This is the case with Manchester City and Girona, both under the City Group umbrella, playing in this season's tournament.
United has run into complications from Ratcliffe's ties with Nice, exemplified by the blockade of Jean-Clair Todibo's potential transition to Old Trafford. Nonetheless, United retains grounds for optimism about the predicament.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Ratcliffe is rumoured to be mulling over the sale of the French outfit. A sale before a distinct cut-off date, paired with United clinching the Europa League title and a Champions League slot for Nice, would avert issues. Moreover, UEFA has spelled out that the approach isn’t universally applicable. Even if Ratcliffe keeps stakes in both squads, affiliation in European competition could still happen for both, as implied by a UEFA release.
The statement articulated that "no one is simultaneously involved, directly or indirectly, in any capacity whatsoever in the management, administration and/or sporting performance of more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition; and no one has control or decisive influence over more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition."
Hence, all that's truly needed is proof that the two clubs aren't managed simultaneously. Ratcliffe's plan to sell his stake in Nice could undoubtedly bolster their case should the worst occur.