As the race for European places intensifies in the Premier League, several clubs are facing a parallel battle off the pitch: satisfying Uefa's strict multi-club ownership regulations. With the 1 March compliance deadline now passed, Everton, Chelsea, and Nottingham Forest have been working frantically to avoid sanctions that could see them demoted or excluded from European competitions entirely.
Uefa's rules are designed to ensure sporting integrity by preventing closely linked clubs from competing in the same tournament. A shareholding threshold of 30% and the concept of 'decisive influence' are key factors. Last season, Crystal Palace became a high-profile victim, being moved from the Europa League to the Conference League after failing to comply.
Everton and Roma: The Friedkin Factor
Everton's link to Roma, both owned by the Friedkin Group, poses a potential conflict. Dan Friedkin serves as chairman of both clubs, while two senior Friedkin Group officials sit on Everton's board. Everton insist they have a solution, but have not revealed details. A blind trust, the route taken by Nottingham Forest, has been ruled out. If both clubs qualify for the same European competition, Uefa's Club Financial Control Body may have to intervene.
Chelsea and Strasbourg: BlueCo's Overhaul
Chelsea and Strasbourg, both under the BlueCo umbrella, have taken steps to separate their governance. Four directors recently resigned from Strasbourg's board, including Chelsea's joint-sporting directors. Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali also stepped down from a related UK company. However, with Chelsea's form faltering and Strasbourg still in contention for European football through the Conference League, a clash remains possible.
Nottingham Forest and Olympiakos: Blind Trust Move
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis placed the club into a blind trust to address Uefa's concerns. Forest and Olympiakos, another Marinakis-owned club, could both qualify for Europe, but the trust arrangement is intended to sever operational links.
What Happens Next?
Uefa has made clear that the 1 March deadline is strict, citing Court of Arbitration for Sport rulings that upheld sanctions against Crystal Palace last season. Clubs must now wait for Uefa's verdict, which could determine their European fate for next season.