Here’s why Manchester United could be KICKED OUT of Europe

Sir Jim Ratcliffe wished to buy Chelsea last year but lost the bidding war to Todd Boehly.

Here’s why Manchester United could be KICKED OUT of Europe

Manchester United could get kicked out of the Champions League (via B/R Football)

English football giants Manchester United, are on the verge of being banned from participating in European football competitions next year if they finish the season behind Ligue 1 side Nice on points. This comes as a new headache for the crisis-riddled United side after Sir Jim Ratcliffe bought a 25 percent stake in the Premier League club.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is rumored to have bought a minority 25 percent stake in the Premier League club for a reported fee of £1.3 billion after the Glazer family put it up for sale. Fans had expected that the Glazers would relinquish maximum control and sell the entire club but only put 25% up for sale. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, bought the minority stake after Qatar’s Sheikh Jassim backed out of the race to purchase the club.

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INEOS Group, owned by Ratcliffe, also owns Ligue 1 team OGC Nice, creating a challenge for Manchester United. Nice ranks second in Ligue 1, eyeing a Champions League spot, while United sits 6th in the Premier League. If United doesn’t finish higher than Nice, UEFA rules prevent both clubs with common owners from entering the same European competition.

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For both of these clubs to play in Europe next season, one must secure a Champions League spot, and the other needs direct qualification for the Conference League. If Nice makes the Champions League, United might miss out on the Europa League. The new ownership arrangement adds a complication to United’s European prospects.

INEOS Group may have bought a 25 percent stake in Manchester United

British billionaire and INEOS Group CEO, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is rumored to have bought a 25 percent minority stake in Manchester United for £1.25bn. The official announcement will be made soon. Ratcliffe fended off competition from Qatar’s Sheikh Jassim, who wished to buy a stake in the English club.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe buys a minority stake in United
Sir Jim Ratcliffe buys a minority stake in United (via Goal.com)

The British billionaire, with his INEOS group, also owns the French club OGC Nice. After missing out on Chelsea last year, INEOS chief Ratcliffe swiftly bought a stake in Manchester United. The new owners plan to make changes in both administration and the first team, bringing in fresh faces. INEOS might take control of United’s operations, including player recruitment and coaching staff.

Ratcliffe aims to restore United to its former glory in the Premier League and Europe. Fans, unhappy with the Glazers’ control amid the team’s recent struggles, welcomed the news. However, the Glazers will still be the majority owners of the club.

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