Manchester United would not be guaranteed a place in a European Super League if it were formed right now.

Seventh place in the Premier League and ten years without a title isn’t exactly’super’, even if United’s rich history, tremendous prize pile, and off-field pulling power ensure that they remain a leading light in world football. The initial Super League idea was met with fan objections, with Reds fans among the most outspoken. It’s back on the table after two and a half years, but in a changed guise and without the level of support it once enjoyed.

United, along with other major English clubs, initially agreed to the 2021 proposal before withdrawing due to public outrage. However, they have already stated that they will not be joining forces this time.

“Our position has not changed,” United said in a statement released on Thursday. “We remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions, and to positive cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and fellow clubs through the ECA on the continued development of the European game.”

That is the United stance, and any hypothetical Super League would still require the endorsement of UEFA to get off the ground, which means that while the court verdict on Thursday makes a continental makeover possible, it appears doubtful at this time. This will gratify matchgoers and those who want to retain football’s traditions.

It’s impossible to say whether those behind the scenes and at the top of some of Europe’s biggest clubs will welcome the boost that a redesigned, expanded Super League will provide. Given their status, if not recent success, United would be welcomed with open arms. A certainty of massive midweek matches and additional profits would undoubtedly follow.

But, with the Reds avoiding any involvement, it’s business as usual for the time being. United are already out of the Champions League for this season and are far from likely to return next season. They are six points below the top four and will have to fight their way into the bigger UEFA competition for next season, which begins with their game against West Ham on Saturday.

Erik Ten Hag will be under pressure to win this one. There will be no Super League passes distributed; instead, United must carve their own path to Europe’s top table and earn their place.