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How the top 6 can all qualify for the Champions League next season

Published 11:42 20 Apr 2026 BST

Updated 11:42 20 Apr 2026 BST

Jacob Entwistle
How the top 6 can all qualify for the Champions League next season

Homesport

The outcome is fully possible!

With the top 5 of the Premier League table most likely set in stone for the season, the lucky 6th-place could also potentially qualify for the illustrious Champions League - should two outcomes occur.

Currently in the league standings, Man City can go above Arsenal on goal difference - should they beat Burnley by more than one goal on Wednesday night.

Major favourites to win against their 19th-placed relegation-bound opposition, City took a major step to spearhead their title charge, beating the direct rivals Arsenal on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of a trademark Erling Haaland winner.

Where Champions League qualification is a guarantee for the top-two and a huge likelihood for Manchester United in 3rd, Aston Villa in 4th and Liverpool in 5th, the 6th place is still up for grabs.

Though Chelsea currently occupy the position with 48 points, Brentford and Bournemouth both sit on the same points, with only a lesser goal difference.

Beneath those two come Brighton in 9th and Everton in 10th, both with 47 points.

Even Sunderland in 11th, with 46 points, can still have a shout at European football, should they propel points.

However, all will still be dreaming for the iconic UCL football and it can happen on two conditions: If Aston Villa finish 5th and win the Europa League.

Thankfully for the chasing pack, Villa have the Europa League expert in Unai Emery, who has won the trophy three times with Sevilla and once at Villarreal.

Domestically, Villa have to go to Fulham, before a home fixture against the relegation-threatened Spurs.

Following this, they'll be hoping to claim three points at lowly Burnley, before a very difficult finish at home to Liverpool and away to title-hopefuls City.

With three points separating Villa and Liverpool currently in 4th and 5th, the tide could turn in the Redmen's favour on the 17th May when the two British giants meet.

In the Europa League, Villa travel to Forest on the 30th April for a first leg at the City Ground.

It's all to play for!