Why UEFA put Man City vs Real Madrid and Bayern vs Arsenal on the same night

The hardest decision we've had to make

When the two ties were drawn out of the hat for the Champions League quarter final they were immediately dubbed as the ties of the round before causing plenty of anger after it emerged it would be on the same night.

Both games also have plenty on the line after Man City vs Madrid ended 3-3 while Bayern vs Arsenal is currently level at 2-2.

Usually the two English sides wouldn't play on the same day but UEFA have revealed why they both clash.

Why Man City and Arsenal are playing on the same night

Because Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid were both drawn at home in the first leg, prioritising the schedule to ensure they both don't play in Madrid on the same day following concerns from the local authorities.

A win for both Premier League sides would see them meet in the semi finals however for the Gunners there is extra pressure on the line.

In order to qualify for the newly-expanded Club World Cup that takes place in 2025, Mikel Arteta's side must win the Champions League.

The new version of the tournament features 32 teams, with 12 representing UEFA and six from the CONMEBOL, its South American counterpart.

The AFC, CAF and CONCACAF will be represented by four clubs each, with the OFC and the host association awarded one slot each. 

Arsenal are the only side left in the competition who don't meet UEFA's four-year ranking criteria to qualify for the Club World Cup.

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