Christophe Galtier eases Chelsea concerns about Champions League qualification
Speaking to France Bleu via GFFN (h/t Football London), Nice boss Christophe Galtier has eased concerns at Chelsea regarding their participation in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
The Blues are currently third in the Premier League and should qualify for Europe’s top competition with minimal fuss. However, despite qualifying, their ability to take part in it was called into question thanks to the ensuing ownership saga.
This could be the case should Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s bid to buy the west London club prove successful. He also owns Ligue 1 side, OGC Nice who are also themselves in contention for Champions League qualification.
As per UEFA regulations, Chelsea and Nice wouldn’t both be able to play in the Champions League in the same season if they are under the same ownership. This will prove to be the case should Sir Ratcliffe’s group win the bid for the Blues.
Nice boss Galtier, however, has attempted to ease concerns and has assured Chelsea fans that it will not be a problem. He also appeared to hint that one club’s growth has little to do with the other and that Sir Ratcliffe has the means to manage both clubs.
“I know that it doesn’t at all call into question Ineos’ determination to grow Nice. Jim has the means to buy Chelsea, good for him. I’ve sent him a message.”
Galtier’s words do not really address the elephant in the room and it remains to be seen what happens should Sir Ratcliffe win the bid. Nice are currently two points off the third spot in Ligue 1 with three games to go. Hopefully, they miss out much to our benefit.
Chelsea’s job of qualification is also far from done. Despite holding onto the third spot, both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are breathing down our necks. Thomas Tuchel should address the Blues’ recent slide in form if he is serious about keeping the spot at the top table of European football.
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Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Nadine Dorrie has informed the club that they are on borrowed time and will need to speed up their sale. Others in contention for the club are the consortiums led by Todd Boehly, Stephen Pagliuca and Sir Martin Broughton.
