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The trophy of UEFA Champions League. /CFP
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is finalizing negotiations with the Portuguese government about moving this season's Champions League Final between Manchester City and Chelsea from Istanbul to Porto, reported The Associated Press quoting an anonymous source.
One of the locations lined up for European football's grand finale is the 50,000-capacity Estádio do Dragão, home stadium to FC Porto. From May 17, Portugal will join another 12 countries that Britain considers as "low-risk" territories where people aren't required to quarantine upon their return.
Of course, Portugal must lift its current block on tourists from Britain as well.
Last season, the quarterfinals, semifinals and Final of the Champions League all happened in Lisbon behind closed doors after the COVID-19 pandemic hit. This time, UEFA and the Portuguese government will have to work together to make sure that European football's grand finale can take place in front of fans and sponsor guests.
General view of Estádio do Dragão in Porto, Portugal. /CFP
Previously, UEFA was talking to the British government about hosting the Champions league Final in London, possibly at Wembley Stadium. If that comes to be, English fans will be able to watch two Premier League teams play against each other for the top honor at home on May 29.
However, that negotiation stalled because UEFA could not secure the quarantine exemptions for media and guests to be able to fly into London.
Man City just claimed the Premier League title with three games to go after Manchester United lost to Leicester City 2-1 at home. Chelsea are No. 4 in the domestic league. They defeated Man City 2-1 on the road on Saturday.
