EXPLAINER: How 9 Premier League clubs could play in Europe

The Premier League is set for a potential record number of clubs in European competitions for the 2026/2027 season, following strong performances by English teams in continental tournaments.

Arsenal are in the UEFA Champions League final, Aston Villa are in the Europa League final, and Crystal Palace have reached the Conference League final. If these outcomes go in favour of English clubs, it could significantly increase the number of Premier League representatives in Europe next season.

This would also mark the first time three English clubs feature in all three major European finals, underlining the competitive strength of the Premier League.

Why Carlos Queiroz picked so many new faces for Ghana’s Mexico clash

How Nine English Clubs Could Qualify for Europe

Aston Villa:

If Villa win the Europa League and finish 5th or 6th in the Premier League, England could have five clubs qualifying for the Champions League through league positions, with Villa also qualifying as Europa League winners, increasing the total English representation in Europe.

However, UEFA regulations limiting the number of teams in the Champions League could affect the distribution of Europa League spots, depending on final standings and qualification rules.

Chelsea:

If Chelsea win the FA Cup but finish outside the automatic Europa League qualification places, the 7th-placed Premier League team would qualify for the Europa League, maintaining England’s allocated slots.

This would also allow the 8th-placed team to take a place in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Crystal Palace:

If Palace win the Conference League, they will automatically qualify for the Europa League next season, regardless of their league position.

This scenario would raise the number of English clubs in Europe to nine, setting a historic milestone for the Premier League and English football.

Watch the video below:

@skysportsnews EXPLAINED: How nine PL clubs could be playing in Europe next season 🗣️🏆 #skysportsnews #skysports #sportsontiktok #football ♬ original sound - Sky Sports News

SB/MA

Gospel queen Diana Hamilton takes home Best Gospel Artiste at the 27th TGMAs