Manchester City could be ruled out of next season’s Champions League due to Girona’s success in La Liga. City Football Group-owned Girona have been a surprise hit in Spain this year as they compete for the La Liga title. UEFA rules state that two clubs from the same group cannot compete in the same European competition, which could result in both teams being unable to participate.
If Girona qualify for the Champions League, while Arsenal and Liverpool are ahead of City in the Premier League, Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions could be knocked out of the competition. UEFA are reportedly monitoring the relationship between City and Girona closely.
It comes after the Spanish outfit announced the transfer of 19-year-old Savio to City following an impressive season under Michel. City Football Group may have to reduce its stake in Girona if both clubs qualify for the Champions League.This is similar to what happened when Aston Villa and Brighton qualified for the same European competition alongside sister teams Vitoria de Guimaraes and Royale Union Saint-Gillois respectively.
Manchester United could face similar problems over their acquisition of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% stake in Ligue 1 club Nice.UEFA’s financial watchdog could investigate the involvement of City and Girona this summer if a conflict of interest is identified. Both clubs risk missing out on Champions League qualification unless major changes are made behind the scenes.
UEFA rules state that no person or group can have significant “control or influence” over two or more clubs participating in the same tournament. If the investigation reveals that people from City Football Group control both clubs and have failed to change their business models, only the teams in the top positions of their domestic leagues will be given the green light to qualify for the Champions League.
Opponents will have to fight in the Europa League. If Girona and City are level in the league, the tie will be booked and odds will be given, with City, who won the Champions League last year, likely to have the advantage.