Football figures raise concerns over Manchester City’s European entry

BBC Sport reported on 7 October 2026 that unnamed senior figures in English football were concerned Manchester City could play in the 2027/28 Champions League even after a heavy domestic sanction. Their concern centres on a hypothetical outcome: City winning the Champions League and qualifying as titleholders despite being relegated at home. The figures regard participation and its financial rewards after a failed appeal and a severe penalty as unacceptable. [1]

The current rules show why relegation alone would not necessarily settle the question. The 2026/27 Champions League regulations reserve a league-phase place for titleholders even if they do not qualify through their domestic championship. But sporting qualification is not the same as admission: clubs must also meet licensing and other entry requirements. [6] [7]

UEFA’s licensing rules allow a club outside the top division to seek special permission in defined circumstances, including where its division meant it did not undergo an equivalent licensing process. That permission is not automatic. The FA is England’s licensor, while UEFA makes the final decision on entry to its competitions. The rules reviewed do not establish City’s eligibility for 2027/28. [8] [10] [11]

An independent Premier League commission has upheld financial charges against City but rejected one co-operation charge. City denies wrongdoing and has appealed the decision. The Premier League says a separate hearing will address sanctions. No outcome of that appeal or sanction hearing is established. [2] [3] [4] [5]