UEFA Clears Manchester United and Nice for Europa League Competition
UEFA has reportedly decided to allow Manchester United to compete in the Europa League alongside INEOS-owned OGC Nice next season, resolving concerns over the multi-club ownership rules. United secured their spot in UEFA’s secondary competition by triumphing over Manchester City in the FA Cup final, despite finishing eighth in the Premier League.
The potential conflict arose from INEOS’s ownership stakes, holding 27 percent of United and 100 percent of Nice. UEFA’s rules typically prevent two clubs with the same owners from participating in the same competition unless certain conditions are met. With INEOS planning to increase its stake in United beyond the 30 percent threshold, there were fears this could disqualify either club.
However, according to The Times, UEFA’s Club Financial Control Board (CFCB) is set to approve both clubs’ participation. This decision will be confirmed on Monday, June 3. The ruling also benefits Manchester City and Girona, both owned by the City Football Group, allowing them to compete in the Champions League next season.
The upcoming 2024-25 European season is being treated as a transitional period, with more stringent enforcement of the rules expected in future seasons. The CFCB is likely to recommend that Girona and Nice be managed via a “blind trust” overseen by a UEFA-approved panel, similar to the arrangement for AC Milan and Toulouse last season. This model ensures compliance while maintaining competitive integrity.
As these developments unfold, both Manchester United and Nice, along with City and Girona, can prepare for their European campaigns with renewed clarity and focus.