Wolves back in Europe after 39 years and begin season on July 25
Sunday 19 May 2019 07:41, UK
Manchester City’s FA Cup win over Watford means Manchester United have avoided an early start to the season and will go straight into the Europa League group stages.
City completed a domestic treble with a 6-0 FA Cup final win over Watford, which ensured Wolves - who finished seventh in the Premier League - have qualified for the Europa League in their first season back in the top flight.
Wolves, who last played in Europe during the 1980-81 season, will now begin their campaign in the second qualifying round on July 25.
United would have had to enter the competition at the same stage had Watford emerged victorious at Wembley, with a potential Europa League qualifier clashing with their International Champions Cup friendly with Tottenham in Shanghai.
But City's success means United now start their season when the Premier League begins on the weekend of August 10.
City's victory also means they face a curtain-raiser against last season's title rivals Liverpool in the FA Community Shield at Wembley on August 4.
