England could have seven teams in the Champions League – how is that possible?
Lars Foster
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
The Premier League remains fully represented in all European competitions, setting up a unique scenario where as many as seven English clubs could qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Details: There is a realistic possibility that England could send seven teams to the 2025/26 Champions League. Here’s how it could happen:
The Premier League is on course to secure an additional place in next season’s competition thanks to its dominance in UEFA’s coefficient table. After the group stage, English clubs have contributed 20.892 points, the highest tally across Europe. If England maintains this lead, the league will be granted a fifth spot in the expanded 36-team Champions League format.
Sixth and seventh spots would depend on English teams winning either the Champions League or Europa League while finishing outside the top five in the Premier League.
If Manchester City win the 2024/25 Champions League but finish sixth in the Premier League, they would qualify as defending champions, adding an extra English representative. However, Liverpool and Arsenal would not benefit from this rule, as they are likely to secure qualification through their league position.
If Manchester United or Tottenham win the Europa League and fail to finish in the top five of the Premier League, they would also qualify for the Champions League as Europa League winners, taking England’s total representation to seven teams.
Reminder: Among the English clubs still competing in Europe, only Manchester City will have to play a knockout playoff in the Champions League against Real Madrid. The other six Premier League teams have all advanced directly to the Round of 16 in their respective competitions.
