UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules may jeopardize the participation of English football club Manchester United in an upcoming tournament. The team’s future involvement is uncertain due to their association with INEOS, a company that also owns French team Nice. INEOS holds a 27% stake in Manchester United and intends to invest an additional £245 million, potentially increasing their ownership stake to more than 30%, surpassing UEFA’s threshold for multi-club ownership.

The situation is complicated by Nice’s qualification for the Europa League after finishing fifth in the French top-flight. If INEOS fails to address the ownership issue, one of their clubs could face relegation to the UEFA Conference League. The scenario raises questions about which club, if any, would be affected.

INEOS, however, remains confident in finding a resolution, although UEFA has historically expressed concerns about the integrity of competitions when two clubs with the same owner or investor face each other. Despite the controversy, INEOS is optimistic about finding a solution for the upcoming European season. Meanwhile, UEFA’s stance on multi-club ownership underscores the seriousness of the situation, as it could potentially impact the integrity of European club competitions.

It remains to be seen how the matter will be resolved, but both INEOS and UEFA seem committed to working towards a resolution.