Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has no qualms with the Scottish Cup winners entering the Europa League at a later stage than his side.
After securing second place in the Scottish Premiership, the Dons will enter the competition at the first qualifying round with the first leg due to take place on July 2.
But the winners of this month’s Scottish Cup final between Caley Thistle and Falkirk will begin their Europa League campaign in the second qualifying round on July 16.
It means a shorter summer break for the Aberdeen squad but McInnes says his players will cope with the early start to the new campaign.
The Aberdeen manager said: “We knew the rules before we started.
“I wanted the longer break for my players more than anything. Obviously, we were confident of finishing second and we needed Celtic to win the cup if we were to enter at the second qualifying round.
“The one time I have wanted Celtic to win and they let me down. But we are fine with it as it is the rules.
“There is an argument over who should get in the later round – a team that finishes second after playing 38 games or one that wins a cup after five games.
“I’m not sure one way or the other but I am not too perturbed about it.”
Aberdeen have announced their pre-season schedule which will begin with a training camp in Scotland before they face Brechin City at Glebe Park on Wednesday, June 24.
The Dons have a friendly lined up against opponents yet to be confirmed on Sunday, June 28, before they take on Raith Rovers at Stark’s Park on Sunday, July 12.
McInnes’ Reds will then play Brighton in Jamie Langfield’s testimonial on Sunday, July 26.
The Dons under-20 side will travel to Austria for a two-week training camp before taking on Peterhead at Balmoor on Saturday, July 18, Nairn County at Station Park on Tuesday, July 21, and Turriff United at the Haughs on Tuesday, July 28.
Meanwhile, McInnes was pleased to see Aberdeen’s player of the season Adam Rooney included in the provisional Republic of Ireland squad for next month’s friendly against England and Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland.
He said: “I’m delighted for Adam. It is great recognition for the season he has had with Aberdeen as he has been such an important player for us.
“I know how important playing for Ireland means to him. To get into the provisional Ireland squad is a boost and I would love to see him make the final cut.”