Liverpool Football Club is staring down the barrel of an unprecedented crisis that could see new manager Arne Slot sensationally denied a Champions League place before his Anfield reign has even properly begun.
The looming threat stems from a contentious UEFA regulation concerning multi-club ownership. The heart of the issue lies with Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool's American owners, who also hold a significant stake in French Ligue 1 outfit Toulouse.
The nightmare scenario for the Merseyside giants would be triggered if Toulouse, who finished just two points above the relegation play-off spot, defy the odds and win their final game against Marseille. Combined with other specific results from matches involving Lens and Lyon, this could see Toulouse leapfrog into a European qualification position.
Under Article 5 of UEFA's regulations, two clubs under the 'decisive influence' of the same ownership group are prohibited from competing in the same European tournament. This places Liverpool's hard-earned Champions League spot in serious jeopardy.
This creates an agonising wait for Slot and the Liverpool faithful. The final resolution won't be known until after the last ball is kicked in France's Ligue 1, casting a long shadow over what should be a period of optimism.
The potential ruling would represent a brutal twist of fate for Liverpool, who fought tirelessly under departing boss Jurgen Klopp to secure a top-four finish and its accompanying Champions League riches. To have it snatched away by an off-field technicality would be a devastating blow to the club's sporting and financial ambitions for the new season.
