Race for Europe: Who will qualify?

 Race for Europe: Who will qualify?

Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur saves from Phil Foden of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on May 14, 2024 in London, England.(Image-Getty)

15 May 2024

The Exciting Conclusion to the European Football Race

The race to qualify for European football next season is set for a thrilling conclusion as several Premier League teams vie for coveted spots in UEFA competitions. 

 Current Standings and Scenarios

Following Tottenham Hotspur's 2-0 defeat by Manchester City, Aston Villa is now guaranteed a spot in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) for next season. They will join Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool in the competition.

 Fight for Fifth and Sixth Places

Tottenham Hotspur:

Spurs need only a point from their upcoming match against Sheffield United to secure fifth place and a spot in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) group stage.

Chelsea:

Chelsea, currently in sixth place, moved up following their 2-1 win against Brighton & Hove Albion. They could still overtake Spurs for fifth place if they win against AFC Bournemouth and Spurs lose to Sheffield United.

Newcastle United and Manchester United:

Both teams are battling for a European spot and will play crucial matches on the final day to potentially move up the table.

Remaining Fixtures

Sunday, 19 May:

- Brentford vs. Newcastle (20:30, Gtech Community Stadium)

- Brighton vs. Man Utd (20:30, American Express Stadium)

- Chelsea vs. Bournemouth (20:30, Stamford Bridge)

- Sheffield Utd vs. Spurs (20:30, Bramall Lane)

 Impact of the FA Cup Final

The outcome of the FA Cup final between Manchester United and Manchester City will influence the final European qualifications:

If Man City wins the FA Cup:

 The Europa League spot from the FA Cup winners will transfer to the highest-placed team in the league not already qualifying for a UEFA competition, potentially affecting the sixth-place spot.

If Man United wins and finishes in the top six:

 The team in fifth place joins them in the Europa League, while the sixth-placed team goes to the Europa Conference League.

If Man United wins and finishes seventh or eighth:

Only the fifth-place team joins them in the Europa League, with the sixth-placed team in the Europa Conference League.

Closing Thoughts

The final day of the Premier League season promises to be an exciting climax, with numerous teams still in contention for European football. The performances and outcomes of these critical matches will shape the landscape of next season's UEFA competitions.