Manchester City could be kicked out of the Champions League last season even if they qualify for the competition, it has been reported.
Pep Guardiola's side are currently in second place in the Premier League table, two points behind leaders Liverpool, although do have a game in hand.
A victory in their game in hand would take them nine points clear of fifth-placed Aston Villa, although under new Champions League co-efficient rules, finishing in fifth would be enough to make it into next season's competition.
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Elsewhere, City are looking to continue their defence of last season's Champions League crown with a two-legged last 16 tie against FC Copenhagen, which kicks off in Denmark on Tuesday evening.
And a new report has revealed how they may not be able to compete in the competition next season if a surprise turn of events occurs.
The City Football Group currently holds a 47 per cent stake in Girona, who are currently flying high in La Liga.
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Michel Sanchez's side are currently second in Spain's top division, five points behind leaders Real Madrid and another five ahead of third-placed Barcelona.
It has been an incredible rise for the club, whose spending power dwarfs some of the top division's biggest sides.
Two seasons ago, Girona were playing in the second tier of Spanish football.
But the i report that, under current ownership rules, City Football Group's involvement with Girona could create issues for the reigning Champions League winners.
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It is reported that City would not be able to play in next season's Champions League if both clubs qualify and their Premier League finishing position is lower than Girona's in La Liga.
Therefore, Liverpool and Arsenal could directly impact their rival's chances by finishing ahead of them in this season's Premier League.
But if City and Girona finish in the same position, City would gain access as England are the top nation of UEFA's 'access list' which resolves that particular conflict.
The report adds that UEFA are 'currently monitoring the situation', and will 'assess links between the clubs in the summer if a conflict is confirmed'.
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It is also claimed that, should a conflict affect one of the two clubs, the City Football Group may have to reduce its stake in Girona, in what could become a developing situation.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Manchester City, Champions League, Pep Guardiola, Premier League, Liverpool, UEFA, Arsenal