Serie A will have an impressive five teams in the Champions League next season, thanks to securing one of the two extra places for performance across the three European competitions this season. The coveted extra place comes as part of the revamp to expand the Champions League to a 36-team competition. Italy’s stellar performance throughout the season paved the way for this achievement, as three Italian teams made the semifinals, solidifying their spot in the top two.
Despite no Italian team progressing to the quarterfinals of the Champions League, AS Roma and Atalanta’s strong showing in the Europa League, along with Fiorentina’s presence in the Europa Conference League semi-finals, propelled Serie A to the top position. With the highest coefficient score among all leagues, Italy is guaranteed a top-two finish, ensuring a total of five teams in the prestigious Champions League next season.
In contrast, the Premier League faced a major setback in the race for extra places, with four out of five remaining clubs being eliminated in the quarterfinals. Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and West Ham United all fell short, leaving only Aston Villa as the lone representative in the Europa Conference League. England’s struggle opened the door for Germany’s Bundesliga to capitalize on the opportunity and secure a higher position in the rankings.
With fifth place in Italy now guaranteeing a spot in the Champions League, the competition is heating up between Roma and Atalanta, currently occupying the fifth and sixth positions, respectively. If either of these clubs clinches the Europa League title and finishes outside the top four, Serie A could potentially have six representatives in the Champions League. Borussia Dortmund faces a similar scenario in the Bundesliga, sitting in fifth place and also vying for a spot in Europe’s top competition.
Serie A’s remarkable performance this season has earned them the privilege of having five teams in the Champions League. The league’s dominance, coupled with the Premier League’s unexpected downfall, highlights the competitive nature of European football. As the battle for extra places rages on, fans can anticipate an exhilarating conclusion to the season as teams fight for their spot among Europe’s elite clubs. Italy’s success serves as a testament to the strength and quality of Serie A, solidifying its position as a powerhouse in the world of football.
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