A victory for Manchester United against Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final could have the disastrous consequences for the Premier League Giants
The Manchester United season has been a roller coaster ride – but there is still a chance for them to finish on a high note after they have obtained their place in the Europa League final this week.
Ruben Amorim's team has demolished the Athletic Club with a 7-1 total victory and set up a confrontation with Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao in just 10 days. Spurs also had an impressive run and defeated Bodo/Glimt 5-1 over two legs.
Despite their struggles in domestic competitions, the side of Ange Postecoglou has succeeded in beating the Red Devils three times this season. For Spurs, lifting the trophy would break a 17-year-old drought, while for United it could offer a silver lining for a disappointing season.
It is worth noting that the Europa League winners automatically secure a place in the Champions League of next season. However, this may not be a fact for United.
Earlier UEFA rules stated that two clubs under the same property cannot compete in various European competitions. As Sir Jim Ratcliffe has committed to both Man United and Ligue 1 Team Nice, it would have been impossible for both clubs to play in Europe.
Despite a 2-0 loss for Rennes on Saturday, Nice is well positioned to qualify for the Champions League of next season, because they are currently fourth in the Ligue 1 table.
Last year the regulations were adjusted to accommodate several clubs under the same ownership, whereby each case was evaluated separately. This is clear in Manchester City and Girona, both part of the city group, who participate in the tournament of this season.
United has already encountered problems because of the involvement of Ratcliffe in Nice, as can be seen when the move from Jean-Clair Todibo to Old Trafford was blocked. However, there are two reasons for United to remain optimistic about the situation.
Ratcliffe is said to be considering the sale of the French club. If the sale goes through before a specific date, assuming that United wins the Europa League and Nice secures a qualifying place for Champions League, there must be no problems.
Moreover, it has been clarified that there is no one-size-fits-all rule for every situation. Even if Ratcliffe retains interests in both clubs, there is still a possibility for both to compete among the European top teams, as indicated by a UEFA statement.
The statement claimed that “at the same time, directly or indirectly, in whatever capacity is involved 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 on more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition.”
That is why the only thing that is really needed is proof that the two clubs are not managed at the same time. Ratcliffe's intention to sell his interest in Nice can certainly strengthen their business if the worst happens.