The final matchday of the Premier League delivered drama, surprises and major disappointments.

While Chelsea missed out on European football entirely, clubs such as Sunderland and Bournemouth secured unexpected UEFA qualification for the 2026-27 season.

Manchester United return to the Champions League

The next edition of the UEFA Champions League will feature five English clubs, although a sixth spot could still become available depending on European results.

One of the biggest stories was Manchester United, who returned to Europe’s top competition under manager Michael Carrick.

The Red Devils will join:

• Arsenal
• Liverpool
• Manchester City
• Aston Villa

Aston Villa emerged as one of the season’s biggest surprises after finishing above Liverpool.

Bournemouth qualify for Europa League

Bournemouth endured an inconsistent finish to the season, but still secured enough points to qualify for the UEFA Europa League.

The club now prepares for one of the most important campaigns in its modern history.

Brighton secure Conference League spot

Brighton & Hove Albion lost to Manchester United on the final day, but still managed to qualify for the UEFA Conference League.

Brighton finished above:

• Brentford
• Chelsea

Chelsea’s collapse represents another major setback for the London side, who are expected to begin a new era under Xabi Alonso.

Sunderland complete the biggest surprise

Few imagined Sunderland — famous worldwide thanks to their Netflix documentary — would end up qualifying for the Europa League.

The historic English club secured its European ticket after a shocking victory over Chelsea, a result that confirmed the Blues’ disastrous season.

English clubs qualified for Europe in 2026-27

Champions League

• Arsenal
• Liverpool
• Manchester City
• Aston Villa
• Manchester United

Europa League

• Bournemouth
• Sunderland

Conference League

• Brighton

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