Crystal Palace fights to secure Europa League berth: Will UEFA allow?

Crystal Palace is engaged in close and collaborative discussions with UEFA as they seek to confirm their place in next season’s Europa League. The uncertainty arises due to the ownership structure involving US businessman John Textor, whose Eagle Football Holdings holds shares in both Crystal Palace and Lyon, another club that has also qualified for the Europa League. UEFA regulations prohibit any single entity from having a decisive influence over multiple clubs participating in the same competition.

Palace is maintaining constant communication with UEFA, aiming to provide assurances that Textor does not exert such influence over their operations. Sources suggest that UEFA is sympathetic to Palace's situation and is working towards finding a viable solution. The governing body reportedly recognizes the value of Crystal Palace's presence in the Europa League, especially given their historic qualification through winning their first-ever major trophy, the FA Cup, last month.

Furthermore, UEFA is keen to preserve the competitive spirit of domestic leagues and cups, valuing the "romance" of a team like Palace winning the FA Cup and earning their inaugural foray into European football. To further alleviate the conflict, Textor is reportedly in discussions regarding the sale of Eagle Football Holdings, which could ultimately resolve the multi-club ownership issue.