Manchester United Faces European Ban Over Ownership Conflict

Manchester United could face exclusion from European competitions next season due to UEFA ban on clubs under the same ownership competing in the same tournament. Despite earlier assurances from UEFA to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, owner of Nice and minority shareholder in United, the ban remains in place. Nice’s recent poor performance in Ligue 1 complicates matters further. If both clubs finish in Europa League positions, Nice would have precedence unless United wins the FA Cup.

Similarly, in case of Champions League qualification, the club with the higher domestic league finish would take precedence. There’s a possibility that both clubs could qualify for the Conference League but Nice might take the spot due to a higher league position. UEFA new regulations will replace traditional group stages with single leagues with eliminated clubs exiting Europe altogether.

The situation could be resolved if Girona, also owned by the same group as Manchester City loses its representation on the City Football Club board.