Premier League Clubs Eyeing Champions League Qualification: A Close Look at Their Prospects for European Football
Liverpool’s Seven-Win Streak Puts Them Back in Contention for a Champions League Spot
Just a few weeks ago, the idea of Liverpool snagging one of the top four spots and qualifying for next season’s Champions League seemed far-fetched. However, thanks to their impressive run of seven victories in a row, Jurgen Klopp’s team is now just one point behind Newcastle United and Manchester United – but with an extra game under their belt.
Klopp himself has admitted that it will be difficult to secure themselves a place among Europe’s elite teams next season. Still, he remains optimistic. “I don’t think it [a Champions League spot] is likely but if they slip, we have to be there,” said the German coach.
Newcastle and Manchester United Likely to Qualify
The two clubs that seem most confident about securing those coveted top-four positions are current third-placed Newcastle and fourth-placed Manchester United who sit on 66 points each separated by mere goal difference.. Both haven’t been consistent lately though only winning one match out of their last three games.
Fifth and Sixth Place Earns Europa
The Premier League clubs finishing fifth and sixth earn automatic qualification into the Europa League (with both FA Cup finalists Manchester City & Manchester United guaranteed top six finishes).
Battle for Fifth Place – It’s Liverpool’s To Lose Now
Currently occupying fifth position with seven points clear of Brighton and Hove Albion, Liverpool have found their form in recent weeks. With Nielsen’s Gracenote now giving them a 55% chance of making it to the Champions League spot, Klopp is confident that his team can maintain their winning ways.
Seventh Place Earns Europa Conference League Playoff
The Premier League club finishing seventh will earn entry into the Europa Conference League playoffs (since Carabao Cup winners Manchester United are guaranteed at least a Europa League spot through league placement or by winning another domestic trophy).
Tottenham seem to be the most likely candidates for this position with Nielsen’s Gracenote pinning them as favorites for 7th place with a 66% chance. Meanwhile, Brentford has only a one percent probability.
West Ham: The Current Dark Horse
West Ham may be out of contention for a top-half finish but they are well-placed in the semifinals of the Europa Conference League. If they win that competition, David Moyes’ team could secure themselves an automatic place in next season’s group stage of Europa League.
In fact, West Ham beat AZ Alkmaar comfortably in their semi-final first leg match which gives them confidence going into the second leg where they hope to complete sealing off their ticket to Europe’s elite club level.
Conclusion
Liverpool is currently on fire due to its impressive run over these past few weeks with many hoping they can continue this trend and snag one of those coveted spots among Europe’s best clubs.
Newcastle United & Manchester United look like sure things while Tottenham looks set to wrap up that crucial seventh-place finish.