Why Arsenal’s Champions League win in Portugal was a major boost for the Premier League

WorldFootball
8 Apr 2026 • 4:15 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • Five English teams are guaranteed a place in next season's expanded Champions League following Arsenal’s late win over Sporting on Tuesday.
  • England secured this fifth spot due to the Premier League's strong performance in this season's European club competitions, making it one of the two best-performing nations.
  • A sixth English team could qualify if a Premier League club outside the top five positions wins this season's Champions League.
  • A seventh English team could secure a spot if a Premier League club outside the top five wins this season's Europa League.
  • For a seventh qualification spot, clubs like Aston Villa or Nottingham Forest would need to win the Europa League while finishing outside the Premier League's top five.

IN FULL