UEFA has made a U-turn by saying it will allow Manchester United play in the Europa League if they qualify, despite Sir Jim Ratcliffe still being the owner at Nice.
According to UEFA’s new regulations, teams owned by the same owners will not be allowed to enter into the same competitions.
This means that under such rules, United would have been barred from competing in the Europa League next season, as their new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is the majority shareholder at Ligue 1 side Nice.
Erik ten Hag’s men are currently sixth in the Premier League and if they finish in the position, they will qualify for the Europa League, but so are Nice.
In such a situation, Nice would have been allowed to play in the competition, as their position in their league is higher than that of the Red Devils.
UEFA general secretary Theodore Theodoridis was at Old Trafford for United’s league clash against West Ham on February 4.
After the match, Theodoridis reportedly discussed the matter with the English club and he assured that the issue would be resolved.
The report also added that if such an event occurs then United and Nice would have to provide evidence to the parent body that they do not share any joint management. With Ratcliffe recently completing his minority takeover at Old Trafford, it is unlikely that the two teams will have any technical personnel in common.
Erik ten Hag’s side will be back in action after the international break on Saturday as they take on Brentford in a crucial league encounter
UEFA Assure Man Utd They Will Be Allowed Entry Into Europa League – Despite Sir Jim Ratcliffe-Owned Nice Also Being On Course To Qualify
