Premier League Secures Fifth Champions League Spot After Arsenal Masterclass

The Premier League is now guaranteed at least five teams in next season’s Champions League after Arsenal’s emphatic 3-0 win over Real Madrid in their quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

England needed just one more win from its clubs across the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League to lock in one of UEFA’s two extra spots—rewarding the top-performing leagues in their coefficient rankings. Thanks to the Gunners’ statement victory, that’s now job done.

The coefficient system awards points for wins, draws, and progression through each round, with the total divided by the number of clubs a country started with in Europe. Italy currently leads the race for the second additional place, while Spain and Germany trail behind.

How Could England Get Seven Teams?

While five is confirmed, there’s still a slim chance of a record seven Premier League sides in next season’s Champions League—but it’d require:

• Aston Villa winning this year’s tournament and finishing outside the top four.
• Either Manchester United or Tottenham lifting the Europa League.

Who’s Likely to Qualify?

With Liverpool and Arsenal flying high in 1st and 2nd, and Nottingham Forest holding strong in third, three of the five spots already look sewn up. The battle for the remaining places will go down to the wire—but for now, English football can celebrate another European boost.