Everton's European ambitions are under threat due to UEFA's strict ownership rules. The Toffees, owned by The Friedkin Group, which also holds a majority stake in Italian giants Roma, could be banned from the Europa League next season if they both qualify for the same European competition.
Everton's chairman, Dan Friedkin, is under close scrutiny by UEFA, whose rules strictly prohibit two teams with the same owner meeting in European competition. This has led to concerns that the Toffees could be demoted to the Conference League if they qualify for the same competition as Roma.
Nottingham Forest's experience last season serves as a cautionary tale for Everton. The club was promoted to the Europa League at Crystal Palace's expense due to the Eagles' breach of UEFA's multi-club ownership rules. Palace's historic FA Cup triumph sealed their place in Europe, but they were punished for having a shareholder who was also the majority owner of French side Lyon.
Everton's situation is eerily similar to Palace's, with the Toffees' owner, Dan Friedkin, also holding a majority stake in Roma. This has raised concerns that Everton could face a similar fate if they both qualify for the same European competition.
The deadline for clubs with the same owners to provide proof of restructuring at board level is thought to be March 1. This has put pressure on Everton and Roma to restructure their ownership structures before the deadline.
Roma's qualification for the Champions League or Europa League could have significant implications for Everton's European campaign. If the two clubs are drawn in the same competition, Everton's chances of participating in the Europa League next season would be severely jeopardized. This would be a major blow to the Toffees' ambitions, and it remains to be seen whether they can find a way to avoid this situation.
