Champions League Race: Five Teams, Three Spots—Who Will Succeed?

The final day of the Premier League season will see five teams vying for three available spots in next season’s Champions League. Liverpool and Arsenal have already secured their places, while Manchester City is on the verge of joining them after a recent victory over Bournemouth moved them to 68 points. A draw against Fulham would likely confirm City’s qualification due to their superior goal difference.

Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Aston Villa are all tied at 66 points, with Nottingham Forest trailing closely at 65 points. Newcastle can secure their spot with a win against Everton. Chelsea faces Nottingham Forest, who remain hopeful after defeating West Ham 2-1. Aston Villa needs a win against Manchester United and favorable results elsewhere.

Tottenham has already qualified for the Champions League by winning the Europa League final against Manchester United. Crystal Palace secured a Europa League spot by winning the FA Cup against Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola expressed confidence in City’s chances, stating, “We go there to win and get the result we need to be in next season’s Champions League.” Statisticians give City a 96.83% chance of qualifying, with Newcastle at 81.73% and Chelsea at 57.81%.