Manchester United risk Champions League ban if 2 things happen

UEFA regulations prohibit multiple clubs under the same ownership from participating in the same competition

Manchester United find themselves at the center of a looming financial quandary as a result of potential ownership changes and UEFA regulations regarding multiple club ownership within the same competition could risk a ban from the Champions League.

British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, set to secure a 25 per cent stake in the club for £1.3 billion from the Glazer family, has signaled a shift in ownership dynamics.

Ratcliffe, preferring a majority stake initially, has accepted a minority position and plans to oversee football operations at Old Trafford with INEOS team members. This move comes amid a battle with Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim, who sought a full takeover through his Nine Two Foundation.

Ratcliffe, already familiar with club ownership through INEOS’s ownership of Ligue 1 side Nice, faces a potential UEFA dilemma. Both Nice and a Ratcliffe-backed Manchester United eye Champions League qualification.

UEFA regulations prohibit multiple clubs under the same ownership from participating in the same competition unless one team ranks higher domestically or sells its stake.

The UEFA Champions League’s new format promises increased revenue, with a projected rise of €35 million for participating clubs owing to an expanded group stage. This financial boost hinges on additional matches and a significant TV revenue surge estimated at over €1 billion.

Manchester United’s potential exclusion from the 2024/25 Champions League, if enforced due to ownership conflicts, could incur a substantial financial setback.

The new prize money system, factoring in a 10-year coefficient system, could cost United dearly, considering their seventh position behind clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool, PSG, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Real Madrid.