UEFA announced on Friday that Manchester City and Girona are cleared to participate in the Champions League, while Manchester United and Nice are approved for the Europa League, following resolution of concerns over multi-club ownership.
Manchester City, part of the City Group, and Girona, also affiliated with City Group, faced scrutiny due to shared ownership. Similarly, Jim Ratcliffe, who owns 25 percent of Manchester United and controls Nice through his Ineos company, prompted UEFA to examine potential conflicts with ownership regulations.
UEFA confirmed the admission of these clubs into next season’s European competitions after adjustments were made to comply with multi-club ownership rules. Changes included transferring shares to independent trustees via a blind trust supervised by UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) until July 2025. These measures significantly reduced investor influence and decision-making over more than one club participating in UEFA competitions.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Moreover, commitments were made not to engage in player transfers, commercial collaboration, or shared coaching and scouting until September 2025. UEFA noted that upon the return of stakes in July next year, further compliance with regulations will be required.
Previously, UEFA investigated similar cases involving other clubs like Toulouse and AC Milan, Aston Villa and Vitoria Guimaraes, as well as Brighton and Union Royale Saint-Gilloise.