The final places in Europe’s Premier League qualifiers were settled on a dramatic final day, with Chelsea missing out after defeat by Sunderland.
Eight English clubs are now guaranteed a place in Europe next season, while a ninth can still qualify if Crystal Palace win the Conference League final later this week.
Sunderland’s cap to an outstanding season
Sunderland wrapped up one of the stories of the season after a 2-1 win over Chelsea secured seventh place and a place in the Europa League.
Regis Le Bris’s side only returned to the Premier League this season following 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’s heavy defeat to Manchester United.
Players and fans at the Stadium of Light anxiously awaited confirmation from other grounds before the celebrations erupted at full-time.
Chelsea miss out on Europe
Chelsea’s disappointing campaign ended in more frustration as defeat to Sunderland confirmed they will not be playing European football next season.
The London club needed results elsewhere to go in their favour, and also needed to avoid defeat, but they failed to deliver under pressure.
New manager Xabi Alonso now faces the challenge of rebuilding a team that has failed again despite massive spending under Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly.
Since taking ownership in 2022, Chelsea have finished 12th, sixth, fourth and 10th in the league.
Liverpool safe return to the Champions League
Liverpool held on to fifth place and secured Champions League qualification despite late pressure from rivals chasing the top five.
AFC Bournemouth failed to capitalize after a draw with Nottingham Forest, while Aston Villa boosted their own European ambitions with a comeback win over Manchester City.
Brighton still managed to qualify for the Conference League despite losing to United, while Brentford missed out altogether after failing to win on the final day.
