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Manchester United is set to face Galatasaray in the Champions League this afternoon, but heavy rain in Turkey has raised concerns about the possible postponement of the game.
Heading into Istanbul with group-stage progression at stake, United is aware that a defeat would end their hopes in this season’s prominent European competition. A victory would give them control heading into the final matchday next month.
The build-up to the match has been affected by heavy rain in Istanbul, resulting in standing water on the pitch three hours before kick-off. While there was no initial suggestion that the game would be called off, there is a forecast for more rain. The preceding UEFA Youth League game at the nearby Recep Tayyip Erdogan Stadium was challenging, with United’s youngsters losing 1-0 to their Turkish hosts.
As of now, the senior match in the Champions League between the two clubs is not in doubt, and UEFA has not received any information suggesting a potential cancellation. Nevertheless, checks are ongoing as kick-off approaches.
In the event that the game cannot start, UEFA regulations, as outlined in Article 27, state that the match’s full or remaining time is typically played the next day, without prejudicing any possible disciplinary measures. Home clubs must ensure necessary agreements for facilities are in place for rescheduling.
There is a potential concern for Manchester United if the match is rescheduled, as their next Premier League game against Newcastle on Saturday night is just over 48 hours after the rescheduled match. However, UEFA and relevant authorities have the flexibility to consider options beyond Thursday for rescheduling, as stated in Article 27. If the match cannot be rescheduled the next day, the UEFA administration will fix a new date during a reserve date or another date, with the rescheduling potentially entailing exceptions to the regular match calendar and played at the same venue.
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