Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister has criticised Arsène Wenger after the legendary Arsenal manager called on UEFA to “review” Champions League qualification rules, ahead of a potential
Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
Speaking to William Hill, Pallister remarked that Wenger has “a few strange ideas,” suggesting not all of them serve the best interests of football.
“[Wenger is] saying it needs to be looked at. I mean, it’s a tough one for me. You know, it’s great that winning the Europa League can get you into the Champions League,” Pallister said via Metro.
“I can understand what he is saying, it is all about finishing in a high position in your [domestic] league, but I don’t know, I’m not sure about that one myself, it’s a great incentive for teams in the Europa League.
“Wenger has a few strange ideas, I think. Not all of them are good. If they are going to change it, it won’t be for this season. It’s for the powers that be to discuss that.
“I think they will leave it the same. It’s a massive incentive for the players who are not playing in the Champions League. I’d leave it the way it is.”
Meanwhile, Manchester United are set to face Athletic Club in the Europa League semi-final second leg on Thursday, while Tottenham Hotspur will take on Bodø/Glimt.
Both United and Spurs secured victories in their respective first-leg encounters.