The European tournament aspirations of Manchester United hang in uncertainty as UEFA maintains its ban on clubs under shared ownership participating in the same competition.
Despite recent reassurances from UEFA, the governing body has reiterated its prohibition, potentially casting doubt on United's European campaign for the upcoming season.
Under the ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the situation is further complicated by the declining performance of Nice in Ligue 1, which could exacerbate United's predicament.
Ratcliffe's INEOS group's ownership of Nice, combined with his involvement in United's football operations following a minority share acquisition from the Glazers, triggers UEFA's strict ownership regulations.
While clubs under common ownership are allowed to participate in different competitions, they are prohibited from competing against each other within the same tournament.
This rule could potentially affect United's eligibility for European competitions in the upcoming season, especially if both Nice and United qualify for the same tournament.
Currently occupying sixth place in the Premier League, United is on track to secure a Europa League spot. However, the unexpected decline in Nice's form introduces further complications.
If both clubs secure positions qualifying them for the Europa League, Nice's precedence in the domestic championship could displace United from contention.
Adding to the complexity is UEFA's restructuring of European competitions for the upcoming season, replacing the traditional group stage with three single leagues. Clubs eliminated from any league will be excluded from European football altogether.
Despite UEFA's emphasis on domestic performance and England's position in the access list, uncertainties persist regarding potential conflicts. For instance, if Manchester City and Girona, both affiliated with the City Football Group, qualify for the Champions League, resolving potential conflicts might require Girona's removal from the City Football Club board.