Even if Toulouse win French Cup tonight, they might be banned from Europa League because of - AC Milan!?

The Coupe de France showdown scheduled for tonight at Paris, featuring Toulouse and Nantes, could be more awkward than any other final.

Not only for the fact the tie lacks those giants like Paris Saint-Germain, Olympique Marseille or Lion but also for a bizarre fact - should Toulouse win on Saturday, they may not be able to play in the Europa League next season, according to a report from L'Equipe today.

The cup winner gets an automatic ticket to the Europa League group stage, whatever their league standings. Last year, ninth-placed Nantes played in the Europa League because of their 2022 Coupe de France win.

However, the Toulouse story might be different. The French side is owned by RedBird Capital Partners, the American private investment company with a majority share in Champions League semi-finalists AC Milan too.

UEFA rules and regulations are clear when it comes to multi-club ownership and European competitions: two clubs owned by the same entity cannot be guaranteed entry, even if they are not playing in the same competition. If AC Milan qualifiy for next season's Champions League, they may finish third in their group and potentially play Toulouse in the Europa League knock-out stage.

Roma-Milan is worth double in the race for Champions League football, claims Pioli

For the matter to be resolved, RedBird would need to withdraw from one of the clubs so that both can compete on the continental stage. In 2017, Red Bull had to make adjustments in order to field both RB Leipzig and RB Salzburg in the Champions League. If RedBird does not make similar changes, UEFA will choose Milan over Toulouse according to sporting criteria.

COUPE DE FRANCE - FINAL

Saturday

22.00: (2.90) Nantes (3.45) Toulouse (2.60)

***odds are subject to change***