The new rule that means Manchester United could still miss Champions League next season - even if they finish in top four

Louis Van Gaal's side could still miss out on the Champions League next season even if they finish in the top four this season. The Old Trafford club who are currently fifth, and four points behind bitter rivals Manchester City, who occupy the fourth spot may have to wait till the end of champions league final, to find out if they would be competing in the elite competition for the 2016/17 season - that is if City overcome Real Madrid in the semi-final over two legs.

But even if United somehow overtake City and still stay ahead of West Ham, who are sixth, they may still be denied a place in next season's Champions League.

That is as a result of the new regulations that were introduced this year. Should City win the Champions League and finish outside of the top four, and if Liverpool win the Europa League then United would also miss out.

The rule states that the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League are guaranteed direct entry into next season's elite UEFA club tournament.

UEFA have confirmed England will have a maximum of five teams in next season's Champions League, with no provision for six clubs from the same country in the tournament.

If somehow, an English double happens with City and Liverpool winning both trophies,  the three-time European Cup winners won't have a slot for the second time in three years, that is if Van Gaal's men finish fourth.

This was the same reason Tottenham missed out on Champions League football in 2012 when Chelsea who finished 6th won the tournament.