OGC Nice could prevent Manchester United from playing in the Champions League next term if they finish in a higher position in Ligue 1 than the Red Devils in the Premier League, according to the Sun.
Incoming Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe owns the French club who are currently second in Ligue 1 after 12 games. Man United are sixth in the English top flight.
The expansion of Europe’s elite competition from next season will see English clubs get five direct spots and French top-flight teams land three automatic spots.
However, the only way United and Nice can both play in Europe in 2024/25 under UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules is if one clinches an automatic Champions League berth and the other qualifies directly for the Europa Conference League.
If the two clubs finish in the Champions League spots in their respective leagues, the team that finishes higher gets the berth, with the other banned from Europe.
However, the Old Trafford club will get the nod if they finish in the same position as Nice due to England’s current ranking in UEFA.
Man United would also miss out on qualification for the Europa League if the French club finished fourth in Ligue 1 and lost their Champions League play-off and dropped into the Europa League as a result.
Both clubs will only feature in the Champions League or Europa League in the same season going forward if Ratcliffe sells Nice or UEFA change their rules and regulations.
The French club finished ninth in the league last term but are looking like serious title challengers this term after a third of the campaign has been played.
Their success could prove disastrous on many levels for Man United as Ratcliffe is set to be confirmed as co-owner having secured 25% of the club.
