There has been a growing gap in English football between the top four clubs qualifying for the Champions League and the rest. It is, of course, in large part a question of sporting prestige. It has been reported that Roman Abramovich intends to hold an inquest at Chelsea into their failure to achieve Champions League status even if they win the double. The race between Spurs and Manchester City for the fourth spot, only a qualifying one, was fierce. But the financial rewards are also considerable, far outweighing winning the FA Cup.
There has been a growing gap in English football between the top four clubs qualifying for the Champions League and the rest. It is, of course, in large part a question of sporting prestige. It has been reported that Roman Abramovich intends to hold an inquest at Chelsea into their failure to achieve Champions League status even if they win the double. The race between Spurs and Manchester City for the fourth spot, only a qualifying one, was fierce. But the financial rewards are also considerable, far outweighing winning the FA Cup.
Lyon have stated that failing to qualify for next year would be a sporting blow but not a financial one as they have plenty of money stashed away. If this is so, they are in a fortunate position compared to many English clubs, but I am sure an extra £20m would come in handy.