Premier League’s final European spots confirmed
The Premier League’s final European qualification spots were settled on a dramatic final day, with Chelsea missing out after a damaging defeat to Sunderland.
Eight English clubs are now guaranteed to play in Europe next season, while a ninth could still qualify if Crystal Palace win the Conference League final later this week.
Sunderland cap remarkable season
Sunderland completed one of the stories of the season after a 2-1 victory over Chelsea secured a seventh-place finish and qualification for the Europa League.
Regis Le Bris’ side only returned to the Premier League this season after promotion from the Championship, but they finished above several established clubs to seal a place in Europe.
The Black Cats also benefited from Brighton & Hove Albion suffering a heavy defeat to Manchester United.
Players and supporters at the Stadium of Light waited anxiously for confirmation from other grounds before celebrations erupted at full-time.
Chelsea miss out on Europe
Chelsea’s disappointing campaign ended with more frustration as defeat at Sunderland confirmed they would not play European football next season.
The London club needed results elsewhere to go in their favour and also had to avoid defeat, but they failed to deliver under pressure.
Incoming manager Xabi Alonso now faces the challenge of rebuilding a squad that has again fallen short despite huge spending under Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly.
Since the ownership takeover in 2022, Chelsea have finished 12th, sixth, fourth and 10th in the league.
Liverpool secure Champions League return
Liverpool held on to fifth place and secured Champions League qualification despite late pressure from rivals chasing the top five.
AFC Bournemouth were unable to capitalise after drawing with Nottingham Forest, while Aston Villa boosted their own European ambitions with a comeback victory over Manchester City.
Brighton still managed to qualify for the Conference League despite their defeat to United, while Brentford missed out entirely after failing to win on the final day.