The Premier League could field up to eight teams in a European competition next season.
We now know that England will have six teams in the Champions League next season, with the top five advancing to Europe’s most elite club competition, as well as one of Manchester United or Tottenham, following the Europa League final.
But, with Crystal Palace shocking Manchester City to earn a place in the Europa League following the FA Cup final, what are the remaining options as the Premier League season nears its conclusion?
How the Premier League could still have EIGHT teams in Europe next season
As it stands, the top five Premier League teams will qualify for next season’s Champions League based on their performance under UEFA’s coefficient rules.
England’s top flight will also gain two Europa League spots, with the first usually going to the side that finishes fifth in the Premier League table at the end of the season, but this time it will go to the sixth-best team.
The Eagles will take the next Europa League spot after winning the FA Cup, while Newcastle United has already secured a spot in at least the Conference League following their Carabao Cup victory.
However, the Magpies appear to be on track to qualify for the Champions League with a top-five finish, leaving another spot open. Chelsea could also have a say, as they will face Real Betis in the Conference League final later this month.
If Chelsea wins the Conference League and finishes sixth, eighth place will also qualify for Europe.
Alternatively, if Newcastle finishes seventh, or Chelsea wins the Conference League and finishes seventh, the Premier League will gain an extra team in the Europa League. Bonkers.
For the few clubs looking to finish in eighth – Bournemouth, Brentford, Brighton and Fulham – the performance of Chelsea is now their only chance of playing in Europe next season.
