Chelsea could face Manchester United in a playoff for the UEFA Champions League
According to the Daily Star, Chelsea could face off against Manchester United in a winner takes all tie for Champions League qualification.
The race for fourth is one of extreme importance, given the financial rewards of playing in Europe’s top tier.
We are current;y in fourth spot, on course to qualify for the Champions League. Breathing down our necks are Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s United side who trail us by a measly three points.
With the football season currently suspended, there is a lack of clarity as to deciding the teams that may finish in the European slots and relegation places. Given the proximity between us and United, the battle for the fourth spot could be one of those that are hard to predict.
UEFA held an executive committee meeting by video conference call with all 55 member associations. The agenda was to formulate a plan to get the current campaign finished in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
It was subsequently revealed that they would prefer it if the competitions restarted in a different format which would still ensure sporting merit wins out. It was also mentioned that the leagues initially scheduled to start in June must finish no later than August 3.
Leagues unable to bring about a return to action will be advised to host one-off play-off games to determine key positions in the table. Such a decision is directly set to impact us.
The perfect payback – In more than one way
The Red Devils have already gotten the best of us on three separate occasions this season. Furthermore, they will be strengthened by the return of Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford.
This is without taking into account January signings Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo, both of who have impressed so far.
Anything can happen in a one-off with luck also playing a factor in such events. Given our rotten results against United this season, it would be a fitting payback if we win the play-offs to gain Champions League qualification at their expense.
Denying them the opportunity will also help us in our race to sign Jadon Sancho. The Bundesliga star had earlier placed the caveat that he will only join a side that can offer him Champions League football. (h/t Express)
If such a play-off comes to being, it can settle more than one confrontation.
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Frank Lampard’s young side have done well to ensure they are in contention for the fourth spot.
Although we have been far from convincing, we have taken our chances when possible. This team will only get better with time. In order to do that, we will need to compete with the best and playing in the Champions League can help us attain it.