Arsène Wenger has suggested that either Manchester United or Tottenham Hotspur should be stripped of their Champions League qualification for next season, even if they win the Europa League.
United and Spurs are set to face each other in the Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21, after securing aggregate leads in their respective semi-final ties this week. Ruben Amorim’s Sporting CP thrashed Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in the away leg, while Spurs defeated Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt 3-1 to move closer to winning their first trophy since 2008.
However, both clubs are on track to finish outside of the Premier League’s European qualification spots, with United in 15th and Spurs in 16th place.
Since UEFA changed its rules in 2014, the winners of the Europa League are guaranteed a spot in the Champions League. But Wenger believes this system is flawed.
Speaking to BeIN Sports, the former Arsenal manager stated: “No. They should qualify automatically for the Europa League but not necessarily for the Champions League, especially when you’re in the Premier League where already five teams qualify.”
Wenger added, “I think it’s something for UEFA to think about and review. On the other hand, people will argue that to keep the Europa League focused, interesting, and motivating, you need to give the winners that prize [Champions League qualification].”
