Thanks to the strong performances of English clubs in European competitions during the 2025-26 season, the Premier League has once again earned an additional UEFA Champions League place, meaning the team that finishes fifth will qualify for next year’s competition.

There is, however, a possibility that England could have six teams in the Champions League, just as happened this season. That came about after Tottenham Hotspur won the Europa League in 2024-25, securing a Champions League berth despite ending the league campaign down in 17th place.

A similar outcome could unfold again. If Nottingham Forest were to win the Europa League, they would qualify for the Champions League as an extra English entrant. The same applies to Aston Villa if they lift the trophy and finish outside the top five - although their current league position makes that scenario less likely.

Villa could also create another route into the Champions League for Premier League sides.

If Unai Emery’s team finish exactly fifth and also win the Europa League, then the side that ends the season in sixth place would also gain entry into Europe’s top competition.