English Clubs Undecided on European Future

This week the question of whether or not Britain should retain its membership of the European Union has been the big political story of the week. In the Champions League, the question was whether or not the three English clubs left in the competition would continue their relationship with Europe’s elite clubs.

Manchester City have had a difficult relationship with Europe in recent years. They have never made it past the second round of the competition. However, this looks likely to change this year following their 3-1 victory in the first leg of their round-of-sixteen tie against Dynamo Kiev. Manuel Pellegrini’s men put in a confident display, and goals from Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Yaya Toure helped them secure a 3-1 win. It looks like City are committed to a long stay in Europe this term, and they could pose a threat to the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid if, as expected, they progress.

It seems that Arsenal have sided with Mayor of London Boris Johnson and deemed that Europe isn’t for them, at least not this year. A Lionel Messi double at the Emirates proved enough to give Barcelona a 2-0 first leg advantage to take back to the Nou Camp. Arsenal had their chances, but it seems that there best chances of silverware this season will come domestically, where they are still in the hunt for the Premier League and FA Cup.

For Chelsea, the situation is much more optimistic. They will meet a delegation from Paris in a fortnight’s time as they bid to try and negotiate their way through to the quarter-finals of the competition. After going behind to a Zlatlan Ibrahimovic free kick, John Obi Mikel scored a rare goal to draw the Blues level. However, Edinson Cavani struck late on to give PSG a slender advantage going into the second leg.

So, much like the politicians, it seems the English club’s future in Europe is split. It looks as though City are going to stay in the continental competition, while Arsenal look set to exit. It seems that Chelsea are still undecided, but interim boss Guus Hiddink will be keen to persuade his men they can prosper in Europe.