Potential Champions League Qualifiers If Man City’s Verdict Is Overturned

On September 26, 2026, it was announced that City had been found guilty of all but one of the charges, a verdict reached after three years, seven months, and 19 days of speculation. As discussions about potential punishments continue, it's evident that Tottenham Hotspur has been most affected, missing out on Champions League spots on four occasions due to City's performance during the relevant years.

From the 2008/09 season to the 2017/18 season, the period in question, Manchester City qualified for the Champions League eight times. Specifically, in 2010/11, Tottenham finished fifth and would have qualified had City faced sanctions.

The 2011/12 season presented a more complex scenario. Chelsea won the Champions League while finishing sixth, pushing fourth-placed Tottenham to the Europa League. Tottenham might have claimed a top-three position instead, qualifying alongside Chelsea.

In 2012/13, Spurs again would have benefited by taking City's place. In 2013/14, Everton, finishing fifth, would have entered the tournament in City's absence, while Tottenham would have qualified in 2014/15. Manchester United would have replaced City in 2015/16 due to their equal points finish with the fourth-placed team. Arsenal would have qualified instead of City in 2016/17 after finishing fifth, and Chelsea would have taken the spot in 2017/18 after also finishing fifth.

Overall, Tottenham Hotspur’s four missed qualifications stand out, with Everton, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea missing out once each.

In light of the verdict, Premier League clubs are contemplating legal action should City’s punishment be upheld. Reports suggest several clubs have consulted lawyers about potential compensation for financial losses due to City's actions, particularly with respect to lost Champions League revenue. However, any legal proceedings would need to wait until the appeals process has concluded.