Why Manchester United Could Miss Champions League Even if They Win Europa League

• Manchester United could reportedly miss out on the UEFA Champions League next season, even if they win the Europa League
• The Red Devils thrashed Athletic Club 7-1 on aggregate in the semi-final, setting up an all-English final with Tottenham Hotspur
• However, Man United’s owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has reportedly run afoul of UEFA by owning two clubs chasing UCL qualification

Despite a chance of winning the UEFA Europa League, Manchester United’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025/26 Champions League are in danger.

The Red Devils are 16th in the English Premier League with 39 points, a situation worsened by a 1-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on May 16.

Manager Ruben Amorim's team also face a tough test in the UEL final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21 at the San Mames Stadium, Bilbao.

Man United risk Champions League ban

However, even if they defeat Spurs in the final, Manchester United could still face a UEFA Champions League ban next season because of their co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

According to Manchester Evening News, he also holds a significant stake in Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, which is currently in fourth place and on track to qualify for the elite tournament.

Per 90Min, UEFA rules prohibit two clubs under the same ownership from competing in the same European tournament, which could see United blocked if the French side also qualifies.

UEFA made an exception this season for Manchester City and Girona, which the City Football Group owns, with United not yet gthe same leniency.

Tensions around Ratcliffe's dual ownership have been growing, especially after Jean-Clair Todibo’s failed transfer to Old Trafford from Nice earlier this year.

However, he is reportedly prepared to sell his stake in the French club if they and Man United qualify for the UCL by beating Tottenham in the UEL final.

According to United In Focus, Ratcliffe was initially confident that UEFA would allow both clubs to participate, despite the ownership conflict.

The 72-year-old previously stated that he had no issues being a shareholder in both clubs, expressing optimism about a favourable resolution.

Before the start of the 2025/26 Champions League season, however, Ratcliffe may be required to provide evidence that his stakes have changed.

Have Manchester United suffered their worst season?

Meanwhile, the Red Devils have endured one of their worst seasons ever, sitting only two positions above the Premier League relegation zone.

Man United also exited the FA Cup in the fifth round after losing to Fulham on penalties, and they only have the Europa League to play for.

Amorim was brought in as manager after the club's struggles under Erik ten Hag, although their prospects have not improved since, per the BBC.

Man United want Osimhen at Old Trafford

Legit.ng also reported that English Premier League club Manchester United's hopes were boosted in the race to sign Victor Osimhen.

Manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly made the 26-year-old the number one target, with EPL rivals Chelsea said to have pulled out.

Osimhen remains a major subject of the summer transfer window, with several clubs said to be vying for his signature in the summer.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng