Daijiworld Media Network- London
London, May 26: A thrilling climax to the 2024–25 Premier League season on Sunday saw Manchester City, Chelsea, and Newcastle United secure their berths in next season’s UEFA Champions League, joining Arsenal and Liverpool to complete England’s elite European lineup for 2025–26.
At Craven Cottage, Manchester City maintained their Champions League streak for a 15th straight year with a commanding 2–0 win over Fulham. Midfielder Ilkay Gundogan rolled back the years with a stunning overhead kick in the 21st minute, marking his first league goal since returning to the Etihad. Star striker Erling Haaland calmly slotted home a penalty in the 72nd minute, earned by Gundogan himself, to seal the victory.
Adding an emotional touch to City’s afternoon, midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne was brought on late in the match for what was confirmed to be his final Premier League appearance in a City shirt. The Belgian received a rousing farewell from the travelling City faithful.
Chelsea, meanwhile, delivered a gritty 1–0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, courtesy of a second-half strike from Levi Colwill. The win lifted Enzo Maresca’s rejuvenated side into fourth place, capping off an impressive league turnaround and giving them momentum ahead of their upcoming UEFA Europa Conference League final clash against Real Betis.
Newcastle United, despite suffering a narrow 1–0 defeat at home to Everton—thanks to a Carlos Alcaraz header in the 65th minute—secured the fifth and final Champions League spot allotted to English clubs. The Magpies’ place was confirmed after both Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest dropped points, allowing Eddie Howe’s men to qualify based on other results. The Tyneside club’s return to Europe’s premier competition marks a triumphant campaign, having also lifted the Carabao Cup—their first major silverware in 56 years.
Liverpool and Arsenal had already punched their Champions League tickets prior to the final matchday, rounding off a powerful English contingent for the 2025–26 season.
As the curtain falls on yet another unforgettable Premier League season, fans can now look forward to seeing five English clubs compete on Europe’s grandest stage next year.