Because Girona is partially owned by the City Football Group, there is a possibility that Manchester City will not be allowed to participate in the Champions League the following season.
Girona’s success in La Liga may result in Manchester City’s exclusion from the Champions League for the upcoming season. This season, Girona—which is partially owned by City Football Group—has emerged as a surprise winner in Spain and is a strong contender for La Liga.
Two clubs owned by the same group are not permitted to participate in the same European competition, as per UEFA regulations, which could jeopardize the participation of both teams.
Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions could be eliminated from the competition if Girona makes it to the Champions League and Arsenal and Liverpool place higher in the Premier League than City.According to the i, UEFA is closely monitoring City and Girona’s relationship.
It follows the announcement by the Spanish team that, after an outstanding season under head coach Michel, they would be selling 19-year-old winger Savio to City. It is possible that City Football Group will have to sell its Girona investment if both teams make it to the Champions League.
This is comparable to what happened to Brighton and Aston Villa when they advanced to the same European competition as sister teams Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and Vitoria de Guimaraes, respectively. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% purchase of Manchester United may cause a similar problem because he also owns Nice in Ligue 1.
If a conflict of interest is verified, UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body may investigate City’s summertime activities with Girona. If there are no major behind-the-scenes changes, both clubs could lose their Champions League spots.
According to UEFA regulations, no individual or organization may have significant “control or influence” over more than one club that is participating in the same competition. Should an inquiry confirm that members of City Football Group maintain control over both teams and neglect to modify their business plan, the only team eligible for the Champions League is the one that places higher in their home league.
The opposing side would have to fight each other in the Europa League. If Girona and City are tied in league standings, the match will be decided on tape. Based on the coefficient, City may prevail because of their victory in the Champions League the previous season.
Girona will secure a Champions League spot, though, if they surpass the current Premier League champion. Girona is currently behind Real Madrid in second place. With one game remaining, City is only two points behind Liverpool, while Arsenal is currently tied for third place with City.
