A rare turn of events could see this season’s Champions League winners fail to qualify for the next European campaign if Manchester City are to live up to their billing as favorites this term.
The Citizens released a statement soon after it was confirmed they will be suspended from the Champions League for two season after breaching Financial Fair Play regulations. Therein, the English giants said they intended to appeal the decision, which could yet see their ban and $32.5 million fine reduced.
But even if the punishment were to be halved, it would still see Pep Guardiola’s side prevented from taking part in the next European campaign, which would make a title this term all the more strange.
City are due to open their round-of-16 meeting with Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid on February 26. Despite being drawn opposite one of the most dominant Champions League forces in recent memory, however, they remain a +350 (4.50) frontrunner to clinch a maiden title in the competition with Parx and other Pennsylvania sportsbooks.
Defending champions Liverpool follow closely at +500 (6.00) despite losing the first leg of their last-16 matchup away to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday when they succumbed 1-0. The Reds are clearly backed to turn things around when Los Rojiblancos visit Anfield on March 11.
It’s unclear as to which club (or even which league) could account for City’s Champions League spot should they win the competition this season but still be banned next term.
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